For some time now, the capital's 17th arrondissement has been renewing itself and surprising us with the arrival of some very fine new gourmet addresses. While the Batignolles district is constantly on the move, the Ternes district is also beginning to offer us some wonderful culinary surprises. These include Fanfan , of course, but also Caïus , with dishes by Jean-Marc Notelet, and Petit Gris, headed up by former Top Chef candidate Jean-Baptiste Ascione.
But these addresses aren't the only ones to delight our taste buds. Among them is Le Petit Nico. Set up in place of the former John Weng restaurant, around the Place du Maréchal Juin, this friendly bistro is also the talk of the neighborhood.
It is run by Nicolas Couture, a former chef at the famous Italian restaurant Rocco in the 17th arrondissement. After several months' work, he has given birth to this very pretty restaurant with its bright, modern decor. We loved the animal-like mural, the large glass roof and the small lounge area at the back of the room.
Wishing to get closer to his customers and offer more elaborate recipes, Nicolas called on the talented Chef Marius Sebert. Focusing on " home-made " cuisine that's both creative and generous, we're seduced by the menu, which is short but seasonal and very tempting.
For starters, we fall in love with Petit Claydee's delicious plank, featuring a melting zucchini, feta and tzatziki fritter, tasty and surprising snail chips, and tacos verdes with crayfish, guacamole, lettuce leaf and grapefruit. A great way to start your tasting experience.
We also fell for the Camembert de Normandie roasted with honey and thyme, a classic that works just as well as ever.
That evening, the Chef also proposed a velouté of corn, Espelette pepper and coriander espuma.
Next, the fish of the day: a delicious salmon sprinkled with sesame seeds, accompanied by melting braised endives and a beet sauce. Once again, the cooking and seasoning are perfect! Special mention also for the beautiful presentation.
Opposite, a generous supreme of poultry with a delicious oyster mushroom cream and truffled polenta.
And to end on a sweet note, let yourself be tempted by apineapple cut into pieces, sublimated by a jasmine tea syrup, and delicately set in a crunchy tuile. A simple but delicious dessert, ideal for a light and successful end to a meal.
For cocoa-lovers, the Chef's menu that evening included a half-sphere of chocolate with caramel and financier, or a chocolate moelleux as the dessert of the day.
In short, this was the kind of discovery we'd like to make more often. We can only advise you to push open the doors of this Parisian bistro with its undeniable charm and unbeatable value for money in the neighborhood.
And for brunch lovers, Le Petit Nico awaits you every Saturday and Sunday from 12pm for a brunch that combines sweet (viennoiseries, caramel beurre salé pancakes, almond financier) and savory (poached eggs and grilled bacon, zucchini and feta fritters, smoked salmon and guacamole...).
Please note that it's been over 4 years since our last visit, so the place and experience may have changed.
Dates and Opening Time
Starts February 1, 2020
Location
Le Petit Nico
97 Avenue Niel
75017 Paris 17
Official website
www.lepetitnico.fr
Booking
www.lepetitnico.fr
More information
Starter: From €8 to €10 Main course: From €19 to €26 Dessert: From €7 to €9 Happy hour from 5pm to 8pm