Pianovins, the French mini-bistro gem in the 11th arrondissement

Pianovins is the name of the small eatery in Paris 11th arrondissement to have an intimate meal. Great French cuisine, cooked by the book, good wine and great staff, it has it all.

Within walking distance from Bastille, at 46 rue Trousseau in Paris 11^th arrondissement, go and discover Pianovins, a restaurant opened in 2018 by a duo who worked for about 25 years with Guy Savoy. At the stove, Michel Roncière who enjoys serving tasty French gourmet dishes and, for wine, welcome Eric Mancio who dances in the room serving good mood and great recommendations when it comes to vintages from here and abroad.

At Pianovins, one enjoys well-made tasty cuisine, perfect cooking and seasonal ingredients. The chef regularly changes the menu depending on the products of the moment.

The place swings between local bistro and gourmet restaurant. And of course, with such an experience with Guy Savoy down the belt, you can be sure to enjoy some high-gastronomy codes such as the appetizer served at the very beginning of the meal and different courses. Everything is homemade, the two friends serve a short menu. But at first, you choose between the 4-course lunch menu or the 5 or 7-course menu at dinner. Serving a bistronomic set menu with starter-main-dessert for €37 without skimping on quality of products or staff, here is what to expect.

When we visited earlier this Fall, the appetizer was some delicious butternut squash soup.

Then, we had some crustacean cream – with a nice iodic taste making us feel like being by the sea – with crab flesh and crustaceans, and freshly podded coco de Paimpol beans, sprinkled with herbs to perfect the dish.

We continued with the Mont Saint-Michel Bouchot mussel stir served with girolles and emulsified jus.

The 3rd course was some yellow pollock from Brittany, cooked as it should be. Lime and smooth chicons, what a fabulous dish.

And because we are Parisians, we got the plate of cheeses by Alexandre, the Cheesemonger-Master. Perfect to finish the meal over a nice glass of wine.

Then, we got dessert, some smooth spice-roasted pineapple, honey and nuts for a smooth finish.

You get it, this is a fantastic food idea, and you are sure to experience a fabulous gourmet moment in a relaxed and intimate setting. At Pianovins, no flashy dishes, but tasty jus, great cooking and fresh ingredients. Great dishes and tasty wines, without fuss, what else could we ask for?

Careful, the restaurant is not very big, make sure you reserve to make sure you do not end holding air.

Alcohol abuse is dangerous for your health, please drink responsibly.

This test was conducted as part of a professional invitation. If your experience differs from ours, please mention it in the comments.