Pierre Victoire, Oxford

Although part of a chain, Pierre Victoire does manage to convey the sense of being a truly authentic French restaurant - it is even managed by a French lady! Wooden tables and rickety wooden stairs dominate the restaurant's closely packed two floors. With its intimate lighting, Pierre Victoire is suitable for both families or couples - groups might be a bit squeezed - and the Edith Piaf background music certainly gets you in the right frame of mind. The food here is delightful, particularly the juicy and succulent duck. Look out for the lunchtime bargains: three tasty courses can be had for as little as £6.