Bistrot Sauvageon, the neighborhood restaurant in the 19th arrondissement with gourmet dishes

On the corner of Rue Bolivar in the 19th arrondissement, Bistrot Sauvageon has been packed since it opened. We decided to try out this new place, which we'd heard nothing but good things about. Three friends, Thibault, Guillaume, and Sylvain, found an old bistro and completely revamped it in just two months. The result is a place where you can come to enjoy a delicious meal and a good time in a cool atmosphere.

Instead of a meat restaurant, the spot was once a well-known neighborhood bistro called "La Bière." It has thus returned to its original function, much to the delight of the old-timers.

Even from the outside, it looks inviting. The glass front is bright and airy. Once inside, you find yourself in a super cozy cocoon of light wood, with a team of young people at the helm. There's no fuss here: the staff serve in sneakers, with a smile and a genuine desire to please their customers. It's the kind of place you want to keep to yourself, but end up sharing with your friends and family anyway.

And in case you're wondering, the name of the place is inspired by a book by Alexandre Jardin called "Le Petit sauvage," a book that tells the story of a man in his daily routine who wakes up one fine morning wanting to rediscover his inner child. Nothing could be more poetic for this spot that embodies renewal. 

As for the menu, Bistrot Sauvageon's menu is a real treat. It features bistroclassics , butwith a nice, well-executed twist. The organic eggs with mayonnaise are excellent with their mustard pickles and fresh parsley. The homemade terrine comes with gherkins just the way we like them. And when it's cold outside, we can't resist the pumpkin soup with crème fraîche, roasted almonds, and the famous olive oil from Domaine Castelas.

When it comes to the dishes, it's hard to choose. The hand-cut beef tartare catches our eye with its shallots, roasted pine nuts, basil, Parmesan, and fried capers. Served with homemade fries, we're tempted to give in. The house burger, according to the neighboring tables, looks frankly generous: steak, cheddar, onion compote, and sweet and sour mustard. If you're more of a fish person, go forthe golden-crusted skate wing with brown butter and capers. The gourmet coquillettes with truffle mushroom cream sauce are pure comfort food.

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We tried the black pudding with homemade mashed potatoes and the revisited skate wing. We had a great time at the table. The dishes are generous and the flavors are spot on. The service is fast and the staff are friendly, which is a change from some places where you are made to feel that you have to eat quickly. And how could you not fall in love with Bench, the little mascot dog who welcomes you with his adorable gaze?

Of course, we finish with a sweet note for dessert. Seasonal pears take center stage, and the dark chocolate mousse with olive oil and fleur de sel is hard to beat. The crème brûlée, prepared to order with real vanilla, is also a hit. And if you still have room, the French toast with vanilla ice cream and salted butter caramel is a must-try.

In terms of budget, it's reasonable for Paris. Starters are around €7-8, main courses between €14 and €20, and desserts between €6 and €7.50. There is also a children's menu with homemade ketchup pasta or steak and fries if you come with your family.

If you just want a bite to eat, the aperitif menu has plenty to offer. You can share plates of artisanal charcuterie, mature cheeses, or roasted seasonal vegetables. The croque monsieur bonheur (available in classic or veggie versions) is perfect for sharing (or not), as it's really generous. Chicken tenders, cauliflower tempura, or hummus with chickpea chips are the ideal combo for after work.

In terms of location, it's not bad. A stone's throw from the Colonel Fabien metro station and not far from the Buttes-Chaumont park, this restaurant in the 19th arrondissement is well located in an increasingly lively neighborhood. Perfect for before or after a stroll in the park, or just to relax with friends.

Bistrot Sauvageon is open all day, which is very convenient. You can drop in for a morning coffee, a quick lunch, an afternoon snack, or a quiet dinner. The cocktails are carefully prepared at the bar, which also makes this a great place to have a drink.

In short, if you're looking for a good bistro in Paris's 19th arrondissement, Bistrot Sauvageon could well be the place for you. It's ideal for those seeking simple cuisine with a clever twist, offering generous, flavorful dishes in a warm atmosphere.