Cheval D'Or

Tucked away on a quiet Belleville street, Cheval D’Or occupies a space that’s been serving the neighborhood since 1987. The vintage red facade remains unchanged, as does the charming old wood fridge visible through the kitchen window. But step inside and you’ll find something entirely new: a soaring industrial-chic dining room filled with an eclectic mix of stylish locals, out-of-towners, and food industry insiders, all drawn by one of Paris’s most inventive culinary concepts.

The kitchen here takes a daring approach, blending French and Chinese traditions into dishes that somehow feel both surprising and completely natural. A whole roast duck emerges golden and glistening from the oven. The croque madame gets an extravagant upgrade with tender lobster and a drizzle of chili oil that adds just the right kick. Perhaps most memorable are the foie gras wontons, delicate parcels swimming in a deeply flavored superior stock that bridges both culinary worlds with elegance.

Dining at Cheval D’Or feels like being let in on a delicious secret. The bohemian energy of Belleville permeates the space, and the international team running the kitchen brings a sense of adventure to every plate. Whether you’re perched at the bar with a glass of natural wine or settling in for a long dinner with friends, there’s an unmistakable buzz in the air. The wine list deserves special attention, thoughtfully curated to complement the boundary-crossing menu.

Save room for dessert—the Paris Belleville is a must. This clever riff on the classic Paris-Brest swaps traditional hazelnut praline cream for red bean buttercream with sesame praline, creating an indulgent finale that perfectly captures the restaurant’s spirit of cultural fusion.