When the Grand Nord group (La Traversée, Petite Fleur) opens a new establishment in its beloved 18th district, it's definitely worth a visit. Welcome to Le Boréal, located at the corner of Rue Montcalm and Rue du Pôle Nord – it's not something you make up ! At the helm are Philippine Jaillet and Charles Neyers, an adorable chef duo, both in the kitchen and in life, delivering impressive bistro-inspired cuisine. A little gem of a dining spot.
Old-school charm as we love it
Parisian stone, chocolate-toned tiles on the floor, vintage bricks, solid oak tables, Thonet chairs, and a gorgeous brass counter – Le Boréal immediately sets a delightfully nostalgic atmosphere. At the back of the room, the open kitchen extends into a small counter with three privileged seats for savoring preparations. For a dose of vitamin D, tables near the large windows are the best option. And when the weather allows, head to the charming terrace to sit under the Parisian sky in this quiet corner of the 18th district.
Two chefs at the helm
At Le Boréal, it's a four-handed, passionate culinary adventure! Philippine Jaillet comes from the pastry world. Having worked at Pierre Hermé and Taillevent, she meets Charles Neyers at La Traversée, and it's love at first sight ! These two never part ways and embark on the Boréal adventure together. They craft playful dishes, share a commitment to sustainability, and enjoy working with all kinds of ingredients, including fish and shellfish. Their vibe : a bistro-style cuisine between land, sea, and vegetables, embracing seasons, flavorful juices, and bold combinations.
A standout cuisine
Reading the dishes on the chalkboard or the menu, you immediately sense the elevated experience at this table ! On this particular afternoon, we dive into the soft-boiled egg filled with smoked eel and topped with a watercress, horseradish, and trout egg coulis (€9). We follow up with one of the place's signature starters : veal tartare with leek oil mayo, soy-marinated egg – fabulous (€15). Next, an adorable ballotine of farm-raised guinea fowl with smoked mashed potatoes (€32) and cod accompanied by Cordes mussels, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and celery puree (€19).
We finish with the orgasmic vanilla field creme brûlée and its champagne sabayon (€11). Equally fantastic is the affogato with homemade vanilla ice cream (€9). For thirst, a 100% French wine list, craft beers, and impressively good non-alcoholic cocktails. Note: don't miss out on the wonderful lunch formula, with a starter, main course, and dessert for only €28.
Open from 12 pm to 2 pm and from 7 pm to midnight from Wednesday to Saturday, and on Sundays for lunch.
Discover also Piccola Mia : the new festive italian table and the chic table to discover absolutely.
