Le Comptoir du Relais – Saint-Germain-des-Prés
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"To be and to have been"
This was my first visit to the Relay Counter since B. Doucet took over. The reception was mixed, and the service already seemed tired before the evening even began. The gourmet starters were very good—classic bistro items like mayo eggs and terrine—but the main dishes were disappointing. The breaded pork foot was greasy and didn’t live up to its illustrious predecessor, the pepper sauce on the rib was unremarkable, and the antique mustard puree felt heavy rather than enhancing the dishes. While tourists may continue to visit, Parisians seeking charm and quality may look elsewhere.
"I’ll be back."
Very well eaten a tartare without fries but it is better a good tartare without fries than a bad tartare with fries and as a starter an excellent homemade mayonnaise egg , a detail a very good bread and in addition a very smiling staff than ask for more
"Chef Candebord is gone (sadly!)"
The onion soup was mushy, and the salad dressing lacked balance. The pâté, once my favorite, now fails to meet even average standards. Worst of all, pigeons were flying inside the restaurant, sometimes landing on diners’ heads, while the manager and staff seemed indifferent, treating it almost like a spectacle. Clearly, Chef Candebord is no longer in charge. With so many better options in this culinary city, I would avoid this comptoir.
"Good address"
The staff are friendly and welcoming, and the dishes are of good quality. Today’s specials were particularly enjoyable. However, the prices feel relatively high for what are simple dishes.
"SO-SO…"
A little overrated—while the dishes were well-presented and good, they didn’t go beyond “good.” The pricing feels high, especially considering the wine menu is limited to the owner’s choice: a glass of white Burgundy and a glass of red Côtes du Rhône for six courses. At €102 per person, including one bottle of water, it feels a bit tight on drinks and overall exaggerated for what is offered.
"Atmospheric"
This café/restaurant, attached to a hotel, has a nice atmosphere with some tables on the busy pavement. The food is quite good, though portions are small and prices are on the higher side. Service is correct, and they do not take reservations.
"The past is gone."
This remains one of my favorite restaurants in the world, though it has lost a step or two. I often dine casually next door now, as the food here feels more ordinary—not bad, just no longer the revelatory gastro-bistro experience Yves created at La Regalade and continued here. The hotel is still excellent, and we make a point to stay at least once a year.
"An indecent addition"
Located near the Carrefour de l’Odeon, this restaurant offers a pleasant terrace overlooking a quiet plot. The dishes are typical Parisian bistro fare—decent, but nothing remarkable. The menu deal includes a main course, dessert, small beer, and coffee for €49. Our haddock was lukewarm on a bed of spinach, and the crème brûlée dessert was charged €11, which feels excessive. Given this, it’s not surprising the restaurant had so few diners.
"Expensive water"
Beware of paying €7 per 750 ml bottle of water—the menu didn’t list it, and we were surprised with a €14 charge for two bottles. Tap water was available at no cost but wasn’t offered to us; it seemed the French patrons knew to ask for it. A small detail, but worth noting to avoid unexpected charges.
"Great food and nice staff."
The food was amazing—we had the tartare and the pork entrecôte, both fantastic. The house wine and beer were also very good. The staff were friendly and provided excellent service, making for a thoroughly enjoyable dining experience.
Le Comptoir du Relais – Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Run by Yves Camdeborde, this small bistro serves exquisite food at fair prices. It’s one of the most beloved spots in Left Bank dining.
Address
9 Carrefour de l'Odéon 75006 Paris
Website
www.hotel-paris-relais-saint-germain.com
Email
le-relais-saint-germain.com
Telephone
+33 (0)1 44 27 07 97