ARGILE. One of the best value-for-money gastro-bistro meals we've had in Paris in recent months

Описание: (In a nutshell) You know how we’re always on the lookout for gastro-bistro gems of Paris. Well, today we’ve discovered another one in the 9th district, and it might just be one of the best value-for-money gastro-bistro meals we've had in recent months. ARGILE was opened in November 2024 by Romain Lamon, who previously worked at the Bristol and the Ritz.

We arrived for lunch and stepped into a lively, charming dining room—the place was packed! Only a few seats were left at the counter, but it faces the kitchen, and we love watching chefs at work. And they were certainly hard at it in there—such intensity!

We chose the starter / main / dessert menu at a very affordable price (€26!); in the evening, there's a five-course tasting menu for €55, which is still very reasonable. The lunch price almost makes you suspicious—what are they going to serve us? But that fear is completely unfounded.

It begins with an œuf mayonnaise that’s classic only in name—beautifully executed: the egg is cooked somewhere between soft and hard-boiled, tender yet firm, and the mustard-spiked mayo paired with pickled mustard seeds is delicious.

Next comes the scorpion fish, perfectly cooked with crispy skin, served with a creamy white wine sauce delightfully balanced by chili. And the polenta is outstanding ♥️: light and fluffy, just the right mix of creaminess and firmness, a perfect rectangle topped with delicious little drops of jelly (white wine jelly?).

And then the final stroke: a seemingly simple chocolate mousse topped with ice cream, but the mousse is silky with a subtle play of textures, a slight crunch—absolutely delicious—and it pairs wonderfully with the praline ice cream melting on top, pure indulgence! ♥️

The dishes look simple, unpretentious, but are perfectly executed, showcasing the chefs' great skill—what a fantastic spot!

And what about you—what’s your favorite gastro-bistro place in Paris ? Thanks for sharing your hidden gems in the comments 😋