Chez Max

You'll find yourself transported to a Left Bank bistro the moment you step through the doors on Palace Street. The zinc bar, checked floors, and handwritten menus create that effortless French atmosphere that so many places try and fail to capture. What sets this place apart is how seamlessly it transitions from morning coffee and croissants to evening wine and steak frites. The kitchen knows its way around proper French technique – their coq au vin is the real deal, and the tarte tatin arrives still bubbling. Portions are generous without being silly, and the wine list leans heavily French with some decent bottles under €35. Service strikes that perfect balance of attentive without being pushy, exactly what you'd want from a neighbourhood spot that's good enough for a date but relaxed enough for lunch with your mam.