Boston, MAFrench

A thoroughly Parisian bistro from longtime restaurateur Seth Woods, with low lighting, burgundy booths, and namesake printed dinnerware. The seasonal patio pairs fromage with cabernet franc, and the filet au poivre in cognac cream is the dish regulars order, at both the South End original and Chestnut Hill.

Celebrity chef Jacky Robert, who moved from France in the 1970s to help open the late Maison Robert and later ran the Petit Robert Bistros, now cooks at this homey Beacon Hill corner room. Beef bourguignon, frog legs, and other classics fill white tablecloth tables lined with silver trays.

The first and most famous Jamie Mammano restaurant under Columbus Hospitality Group, serving French Mediterranean cooking since 1997. It helped shift Boston's dining buzz to the Back Bay and South End border and remains known for its balanced, delicate plates, including a Dover sole meuniere finished tableside.

Petit Robert Bistro owner Loic Le Garrec opened this true Parisian brasserie across the river in Cambridge in 2022. Curved subway tile, plush teal banquettes, and dishes like coq au vin with wine braised mushrooms and steamed moules frites with apple cider cream set the tone for a full brasserie menu.

A Newbury Street bistro built for outdoor people watching, with a menu of foie gras preparations and classic French plates. A long running lunch service adds a couple of casual sandwiches for a lighter midday visit, and the transplanted staff from the south of France give it a genuine accent.