When we were told that Thibault Sombardier, chef of the renowned, Michelin-starred fish restaurant Antoine and Top Chef finalist, was opening his own bistro, we didn't hesitate for a second to go and try it out! And we can tell you right away: we weren't disappointed...
Just a stone's throw from the Pitié-Salpêtrière hospital, Sellae sits quietly on the corner of rue des Wallons and rue Jules Breton. There's no fireworks or eye-catching storefront here, just a simple brown arbour and a crowd at the entrance.
After settling on a small table at the back of the restaurant, we tackle the menu. Of the 5 starters on offer (12-16€), we hesitate between 3, which is already a pretty good sign! In the end, we let ourselves be tempted by a crab and sucrine remoulade sprinkled with lime, as well as a veal tartare with smoked eel and cold lettuce soup. Surprising yet accessible in terms of taste, these two starters are simply stunning. We continue with two rather classic but perfectly executed dishes: farmhouse guinea fowl supreme with creamy morels (28€), and roast lamb chops with savory (22€). A light tiramisu (excellent if a little too sweet) and an absolutely divine lukewarm chocolate mousse round off this fine array of flavors.
Sellae seems to have found the perfect balance: elegant decor without being pompous, classic cuisine without being déjà-vu, attentive waiters without being uptight. Even when it comes to the bill, the balance is right: around twenty euros for a lunchtime menu to satisfy smaller budgets, around forty euros à la carte in the evening.
Sellae is a must-try!
Please note that it's been over 4 years since our last visit, so the place and experience may have changed.
Location
Sellae
18 Rue des Wallons
75013 Paris 13
Prices
Entrée - plat ou plat-dessert le midi: €19
Entrée - plat - dessert le midi: €22
à la carte: €50
Booking
01 43 31 36 04
More information
Open Monday to Saturday from 12:15 to 14:30 and from 19:15 to 22:30
