Racines des Prés–Modern French Bistronomie in Paris 7e

Paris 7eBistronomieSeasonal CuisineModern FrenchSpontaneous Finds

May 17

Written By Robi

Racines des Prés … Seasonal French cuisine, great wines and a warm Parisian welcome.

When Paris gives you a gift, you say thank you.

We hadn’t planned a thing. No reservation. Just a stroll through the 7th on a quiet afternoon, looking for something — anything — that felt right. And then it appeared: Racines des Prés, discreet and understated on a corner of rue de Gribeauval. We took a chance. Paris answered.

From the moment we stepped inside, we felt like regulars. The space is warm without trying too hard — natural wood, soft tones, just enough polish to feel elegant, but grounded in something human. There’s a quiet confidence here. A sense of place. You can feel it in the details: linen napkins folded just so, open shelving behind the bar, the quiet clink of glasses and conversation floating from table to table.

The menu? Seasonal, fresh, and ever-changing. No over-complication, no gimmicks — just honest, thoughtful French cuisine that lets the ingredients speak. We started with delicate green asparagus, barely dressed, and still singing with spring. Then came the fish: perfectly seared, served with a simple jus and a bed of tender vegetables — not a single note out of place. Every plate felt intuitive, like the kitchen was in dialogue with the season.

The wine list leans natural, with a smart selection of French producers. Sensing our taste and mood, our server suggested a white from the Rhône — not even on the menu. Crisp, mineral, and alive, it was the kind of quiet gem that stays with you. Thoughtfully chosen, perfectly paired. There’s a generosity in the service here that’s rare: not overbearing, not aloof. Just present. Attentive. Real.

We didn’t expect this meal. We didn’t book weeks in advance or come chasing stars. We just showed up — and were welcomed. Fed. Delighted.

Racines des Prés is everything I love about this city: elegance without arrogance, simplicity with soul, and that quiet magic that finds you when you’re not looking.