Who even knew that the magnificent patisserie Paul, the people responsible for those mince pie croissants at Christmas time had a restaurant? Not I, my friends. Until I was invited down to write this review. They’re not trying to reinvent the wheel here. It’s bread focussed French classics just off the main drag in Covent garden on the site of the very first Paul to ever open in London. It’s a mid range option excellent for falling back on when you’re trying to avoid tourist traps on the piazza.

I think maybe the nap days are numbered for us, I keep trying to get Max to sleep through some of our lunches to no avail whatsoever. At our visit to Le Restaurant de Paul this was no exception. They kindly seated us at the back of the restaurant where there is a little more space, big buggies may struggle here, and then made Max a custom plain cheese omelette and frites. He’s maybe the luckiest 18 month old of all time. Definitely the most well fed. The staff are warm and welcoming, much like the comforting menu.

What’s good? All the tartines and anything that includes Paul’s wonderful bread. Also the desserts here are exemplary. They do a lovely afternoon tea too.

Kid friendly? They’re very willing. The space is a little tight, there isn’t a kids menu and the baby change in the disabled loo has a secret entrance through the restaurants kitchen which you have to ask for. But as I say, they are willing, happy to adapt the menu, make more space and guide you through the kitchen.

✓baby change facilities

✓highchairs available

✓cool with breastfeeding

✖️loads of other parents

✓space for buggies

✖️children’s menu

✖️toys/play area

Rating ???