Ce Soir...

Everyone who's spent a substantial amount of time in Paris has had the opportunity to survey the restaurant scene and choose his or her favorite bistro. Chez Janou is mine. It's the quintessential Parisian bistro on the corner of a hidden street near the Place des Vosges, and it's absolutely perfect. The menu is succinct but contains everything you'd ever crave. My almost-anorexic mother, vegetarian sister (we don't know where she came from), and carnivorous self all found something delicious to eat.

Now of course, this wasn't my first time dining at Chez Janou. I'd been recommended this restaurant by my trusty friend Zagat, as well as some friends who had lived in Paris during previous semesters. Tonight was probably my seventh time, to be approximate. I started with the ever-consistent tuna carpaccio with black olives and lemon garnish, followed by my go-to -- the entrecôte served saignant (between rare and medium-rare) with a side of a thinly-sliced potato "cake" au poivre. I didn't even mind not drinking red with my steak because the house white is so delicious.

I wish I had taken pictures, but if you've ever been to Chez Janou, you'd know that it's virtually impossible not to devour your food the minute it's served. Unfortunately, all I have is a lucid memory of this fabulous meal and a full stomach to accompany it. If and when you go to this bistro, arrive before 9:30 to sit outside -- the heat lamps will make up for the slight chill, the people-watching will keep you entertained, and the cuisine will be on point each and every time. And most importantly, if you're a foodie who dines out often, it won't break the bank. Three courses and wine for about 35 euro -- but I would pay double for this.

Dine at Chez Janou:

2 Rue Roger Verlomme

75003 Paris, France

+33 1 42 72 28 41