A la Biche au Bois, Paris

We slipped in for dinner midweek. Yes, yes they had a little space in the corner - would that do? Certainly - if that nice lady on the adjacent banquette could move her little (well behaved) pooch along a little. We sank into comfy well worn upholstery, and comfy home made terrines, delicious venison in a heavenly sauce, chocolate mousse, magnificent cheese, spot on coffee, and to round things off how about rinsing out that little coffee cup with a spot of calvados from the vast flagon being touted around the room by the proprietor at the close of the evening. All the while we were surrounded by a genial buzz of conversation, food arrived at a nice leisurely pace, but we were never left twiddling our thumbs. The wine list was extensive, we needed advice, and the advice was good (and cheap!). I am sure there are people who prefer something smarter, where the food is more self conciously 'presented', but this was relaxed, delicious, and fun. Oh - and a lot less that �30/head including far too much wine, and a good deal of aperitif.