Hipster bistro-bar

Noteworthy for: The fortnightly Sundays @ Cafe Etienne Marcel have become the go-to event for gay Paris from 9.30pm to 5am.

Word to the wise: Unashamedly snooty, the service is often under par and plain rude.

Designed by the creative team of French Vogue, it's no wonder the interior of Café Etienne Marcel is so stylish. Bold contrasting colours, custom-made retro furniture, bare bulbs and graffiti art meet a classic French elegance. And you'll find the same blend of chic and street in the regulars.

A Costes brothers' venture, they set out in 2002 to make it the pre-clubbing dinner venue du jour and it's still buzzing. There is a great south-facing sunny terrace, and cool music in the evenings. The bistro-bar has a reliable menu of classics at reasonable prices - the frites are especially good.