Bordeaux’s outpost of Avant Comptoir du Palais, a ‘bistronomic’ trailblazer in Paris led by chef Yves Camdeborde, sees his nephew Julien Camdeborde at the helm and serving an array of tapas-style dishes in a relaxed setting. With a repertoire of some 60 dishes, such as tuna tartare with raspberries, or seaweed-salted potatoes, it’ll take you on a journey through some of France’s best ingredients. The wine choice celebrates the local with a prominent selection from the south-west of France, but there are a couple of vintages on offer from each region of the country.

Located just below the magnificent 15th-century city gates of Porte Cailhau, guests at L’Avant Comptoir du Palais may feel like they have been given the key to the city. The modern wine bar offers a selection of up to 70 tapas ( on a giant blackboard wall inside) that elevate everyday classics. Perch at an upturned wine barrel and enjoy platters of tuna tartare with fresh raspberries, an oxtail croquette drizzled with a red wine jus or oeufs covered with creamy mayonnaise and crunchy grilled shallots.

Perfectly built for its intended audience with a philosophy of conviviality and warmth, the large bar counter here welcomes everyone – family, friends, strangers. This is a place to meet people from all backgrounds while sharing wines starting from €20 a bottle or even €3.50 a glass. The food is focused on sharing plates while the wine list is casual and yet so clever, with every listing carrying some thought.

What we like about it The 4 th ‘comptoir’ from chef Yves Camedeborde and the first outside Paris. Look up to see the 60-70 tapas suggestions suspended from the ceiling. Wine list Large fridges line the walls to keep the 1 000 wines at the perfect serving temperature.

Excellent tapas restaurant on Place du Palais by the magnificent Porte Cailhau. This would be a great opportunity to try some small plates of Basque food!