On the advice of the hotel receptionist, we had lunch at the Café de La Tourelle which is located on rue Hautefeuille in the Latin Quarter, a stone’s throw away from the Saint Michel square.

We were looking for a small, typically Parisian restaurant, not too expensive and we found exactly that. This restaurant has all the features of an old Parisian bistrot. I wouldn’t be surprised if it’s possible to have a drink here outside of mealtimes.

It more than likely owes its name to the turret (tourelle) overhead on the facade of the building. Its small red shopfront with lattice windows makes it very discreet.

The room was small and crowded. The people who arrived just after us had to wait because, as the receptionist had warned us, it’s not possible to reserve. A man, who appeared to be the owner, brought us the menu as soon as we had been seated. It was in French only and not much bigger than my hand but there was enough choice there for us to find our heart’s desire among the typically French dishes. Quantities are generous. We didn’t take a starter.  A glass of wine each to accompany our meal and then on to dessert. Personally, I can the crème brulée with chestnut honey. It was delicious. With coffee afterwards, our total bill came to under 40 euros for two. Very reasonable for Paris given what we had eaten.

We will keep the Café de la Tourelle as one of our favourite addresses.  My husband speaks French so I can’t say if they speak English but it seems that the restaurant caters to more locals than tourists. It’s a good sign.

5, Rue Hautefeuille – Paris 6th Arrondissement
Tel : 33 (0)1 46 33 12 47 (Reservation not possible)
Metro “Saint Michel” – RER B and C “Saint-Michel Notre-Dame”