Le Cafe de France sur Saint-Denis

21/12/2025: What can I say about this place... Honestly, I was strolling through the streets of Saint-Denis and I saw this place at lunchtime (being Belgian, lunchtime for you French folks 😉) and I decided to stop in... There were lots of regulars in the dining room, but also tourists and workers on their break. I ordered a salmon salad and ended up with a plate of salmon, croutons, green salad, and tomatoes—all very hearty and, above all... delicious! A small basket of French baguette was included as a bonus, and "real" baguettes at that! The staff was very friendly, joking with the other customers, trying to explain to an English couple how to say "vin rouge" in French; "red wine"... I smiled, hearing them laugh as they tried to say things with their accents. I decided to go back in the evening for dinner (yes, dinner for you French folks 😂) and this time I had a fish dish; Red mullet with rice. Two red mullets on the plate with saffron rice and a delicious sauce ❤ In the midst of Christmas decorating, yes, things are moving faster and faster now 😁 they don't hesitate to take the time to share a kind word with you. A little shout-out to that person with whom we had a debate about waiting for Saint Nicholas 😉 And finally, the price, well, frankly, you really, really get your money's worth because beyond the welcome and the food, the atmosphere is truly fantastic!!! Don't hesitate... ============================================== Back in Paris, I decided to return to this place; my main question is, will they recognize me? I'd barely stepped inside when the owner called out to me, "How's the Belgian doing?" Well, yes, he hadn't forgotten me! We chatted over a drink, and the regulars, wanting to play a game of darts, asked if I'd like to join them; which I promptly did! At 1 a.m., I left the establishment filled with a sense of well-being... As I was leaving, the owner asked if I'd like to come to a private party the next day (with a meal) featuring Kabyle and Raï music; three singers performed, and I replied, "With pleasure!" I had a wonderful time that evening. The Algerian atmosphere was authentic, warm, and full of life, and truly, truly welcoming. The dishes were delicious and generous, and even though the place was packed, the chef ensured everyone was served at the same time at their table. Returning to the subject of the welcome, it is simply exceptional: friendly, attentive, and genuine. A true cornerstone of the place, it makes you want to return. A wonderful address to discover without hesitation, both for locals and globetrotters!

04/11/2025: Very warm welcome, real shopkeepers and real restaurateurs.