For those that read our restaurant discoveries on a regular basis, you will notice we sometimes have a hard time leaving our immediate neighbourhood. We did, however, decide to do that on a recent warm evening. I heard about a restaurant called Au Petit Panisse and Chef Jeff Schilde, formerly from Dame Jane, with his tattoos, hat and creative dishes – it sounded perfect.
When we arrived, the terrace was bustling with people but we had reserved a table in advance so no waiting for us. Looking at the clients, we could see it was a very local crowd and we happened to be seated by a couple of regulars which made for fun banter between our two tables.
The menu changes often and is creative, with unique combinations of flavours. It was difficult to choose from the very interesting selection offered. In the end, we decided on a zucchini stuffed with ricotta made from raw buffalo milk, haddock and hazelnuts plus razor clams in a sundried tomato butter. These were followed by a duck tartare and a Pluma de cochon Ibérique, a special cut of pork from black Ibérico pigs that is known for its tenderness. Although we are not dessert eaters, we could not resist splitting their famous tiramisu of the day featuring black cherries – we didn’t leave a morsel!
The wine list is filled with many great choices and we opted for a Morgon to go with our dinner. Most wines are available by the glass in case you stop by outside of the food service hours.
Although we sat outside, the interior is filled with the charm you would expect to see in a 30’s-style restaurant. The classic woodwork, tiled floors and vintage walls are enhanced by the wooden tables and chairs with traditional red and white checked napkins. It is a great place for a group meal, dining tête-à-tête or even on your own since there is so much to watch at the corner bistro. Not only was the food delicious and inventive but the service was friendly and efficient, leaving us with the desire to return.
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Open daily from 8:00-01:00, serves lunch from 12:00-15:00 and dinner from 19:00-23:00.
Address: 35 rue de Montreuil 75011
Telephone: 01 43 71 37 90
Website: www.facebook.com/aupetitpanisse
By Gail Boisclair – Gail is a transplanted Canadian who fell in love with Montmartre and has been living there since 2001. She is the founder of Perfectly Paris (www.perfectlyparis.com), a furnished apartment rental company specialising in Montmartre and the surrounding area.
