PEONIES

81 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Denis, 75010 Paris, France

Editor's Review

Though it's set on a busy side-street near the Gare de L'est in Paris' trendy 10th arrondisement, to step into Peonies is to be transported immediately into peace and quiet. The shop doubles, as its full name suggests, as a flower shop, and there are beautifully arranged vases and sprigs of green everywhere.

The menu is limited but pleasing, with cakes, pastries, and a few savoury dishes including salads; lunch dishes are available until three pm. Almond milk is available for those who do not want dairy.

There is indoor seating, though the round tables are quite small, but each has a little bottle of fresh mint water, typical of the careful attention to detail in this charming café.

Review: Alex Stewart