Bistro Papillon

If you're anywhere between the Circus and the Royal Crescent, chances are that you're not too far from Bistro Papillon, a welcoming little refuge that gives customers a chance to sample some delicious French food and wine. Their efficient kitchen produces the kind of fare you would expect to find in small French towns.

The service is attentive and the atmosphere relaxed and unhurried. From their brick walls and wooden floors, to the chequered tablecloth and white cutlery, most things seem simple and encourage you to feel at home.

Start with soup of the day or duck rillettes, cornichons and baby onions. For mains, expect to find green lip mussels baked in garlic, lime and Cajun spices or roasted quail with chestnut stuffing, port sauce and potato galette, among other dishes. You are sure to find a good accompaniment to your meal from the well-chosen wine selection. The desserts are worth more than a passing glance and amongst the many options, the black cherry and gooseberry clafoutis with crème anglaise might find favour.