I had a foodie friend visiting me recently, and I wanted to take her to a Paris bistro off the beaten path. Luckily there are many rising young chefs who are taking the rue less traveled and opening restaurants in some of the outer arrondissements. Not only is the rent cheaper, but the crowds can be more eclectic and open to straying from the more traditional beef bourguignon–type French fare. Le Galopin fit the bill on all accounts. The winner of French Top Chef in 2010, Romain Tischenko, is at the helm, making inventive cuisine in the

When I’m walking around Paris, I’m always amazed at the number of bistros on every corner and everywhere in between. I wonder how they can all stay in business, and I’m equally curious when I continue to see new spots opening on a very regular basis. Les Affranchis recently joined the bevy of Paris bistros giving it a go in this city.

On the chefs’ side is a solid pedigree...