Today, Aux Bons Crus is one of a rare few Parisian establishments to display the iconic sign proudly. You won’t find many hauliers here in the hip 11th, but you will find a hearty meal, charmingly old-fashioned red-check tablecloths and welcoming, down-to-earth service. Especially after a long day of sightseeing, there’s no better combination than the frisée aux lardons with a poached egg to start, followed by a slab of entrecôte that begs to be smothered with their deliciously unctuous béarnaise.

When we just want a simple French meal without pretense and a friendly welcome, we head to Aux Bons Crus. The typewritten menu lists the standards, including leeks vinaigrette, œufs mayonnaise, and a frisée salad with bacon, and the daily specials on the chalkboard reinforce their commitment to the French classics, like chicken in vin jaune and pistachio-flecked sausages. The prices are fair, and the only time I’ve ever had something I really didn’t like was an unfortunate salade Niçoise.

54 rue Godefroy Cavaignac, 11th, tel: 01 45 67 21 13, (M: Voltaire) An ode to “les Routiers,” French truck stops, known for their hearty cooking, this cosmopolitan version does very respectable versions of French classics at modest prices. Steak frites with Béarnaise sauce, Tête de veau, Stuffed cabbage Œufs mayonnaise, Endive salad with bacon and poached egg, as well as massive desserts, are devoured by locals along with pitchers (or bottles) of wine. Very friendly service.

Aux Bons Crus is another classic Parisian bistro that serves simple, quality food at affordable prices and is fairly easy to get into so it’s definitely worth a visit for a casual dinner in Paris. It’s open for lunch and dinner, and last-minute reservations or walk-in tables are usually available. JB and I went on our last night in Paris, when we were feeling fairly tired from the whirlwind trip, and wanted a simple, easy and cozy dinner before heading home the next day.

Aux Bons Crus, a traditional Paris bistro full of old world charm, features a classic roadside restaurant interior, from the red-and-white checkered tablecloths to the plastic bread baskets. Expect simple but characterful dishes with homely flavors like the classic entrecôte steak or pot-au-feu (beef stew). The cellar has an extensive wine list, making it easy to find a perfect match for your meal.

Read an old travel guide to France, and you’ll likely find mention of les routiers. At these roadside restaurants catering to truckers, grub was classic, cheap, and good. And despite the absence of any highway running through the trendy 11th arrondissement, Aux Bons Crus evokes these restaurants of yore.

Located in the 11th arrondissement, Aux Bons Crus is a must-visit for lovers of authentic French regional cuisine. Specialties include steak au poivre, terrine of the moment , and andouillette. The welcoming, rustic atmosphere makes it feel like dining in a French countryside inn.

Aux Bons Crus blends French bistro charm with a wine bar experience. Located in the 11th Arrondissement, it serves local cuisine and boutique wine. The wine bar hours are flexible, ideal for Paris nightlife.

Where to try Quenelle in Paris: The best place to try fish quenelle is from the restaurant Aux Bons Crus in the 11th arrondissement.