I had heard that La Fontaine de Mars had a perfect roast chicken plat du jour on Sunday, so when I found myself in the area at Sunday noonish time, it seemed like just the place to go.

The reason it’s called “La Fontaine de Mars” is because it’s situated right next to the “Fountain of Mars”, the god of war. The fountain was constructed in 1806 by Napoleon.What I like about La Fontaine de Mars is that it’s so classic – checkered red & white tablecloths, waiters in long sleeves, ties, and aprons, and a classic French menu.

It gives you that feeling of really being in Paris, of stepping back into another time.

But I’d always had it in my head that it was just a so-so place to go. Great atmosphere, eh food.

As it turns out, the roast chicken is near perfect.

Flavorful, juicy, tender, covered in roasted chicken juice and served with a side of mashed potatoes that I’m convinced are 60% butter.

No one’s going to argue about that. Paris is not the place to think about your waistline.

Finished off with an espresso at the end, as you should, and it makes for a perfect, and pretty inexpensive, meal. The plat du jour is only 22 euros. Of course, you may as well go ahead and start with an appetizer of foie gras or escargots…and end with dessert.

If you’re looking for classic French, or perfect roast chicken, over by the Eiffel Tower, then by all means, call and reserve a table at La Fontaine de Mars, stare at the 200 year old fountain, and revel in how French and bistro-y everything is. That’s what it’s all about, anyway.

La Fontaine de Mars
http://www.fontainedemars.com
Address: 129 Rue Saint-Dominique, 75007 Paris
Phone:01 47 05 46 44 (Best to reserve since they are usually busy)
Hours: