Erso

The story

Erso Paris – Modern Cuisine in the 11th, Michelin Recommended

A Restaurant That Keeps It Focused

Tucked away on rue Saint-Ambroise in the 11th arrondissement, Erso is a compact, unpretentious address that has earned a Michelin Recommended distinction. The restaurant’s identity is built on a short, seasonal menu that changes with what’s available, served in a setting that feels both intimate and lively.

What’s on the Plate

The cooking is modern, with clear Mediterranean influences and a playful touch. At lunch, the formula is straightforward: choose an entrée and plat, or plat and dessert, for €25, or go for the full three courses at €32. The evening menu opens up with dishes like fleur de courgette stuffed with ricotta and fresh herbs, served with a creamy shellfish sauce and a hit of smoked haddock ice cream. Tartare de boeuf gets a Japanese twist with tsukudani and focaccia, while thonine fumée au foin (hay-smoked tuna) comes with sardine tarama, Nikka whisky, and beef consommé with pine buds.

Main courses lean into robust flavours: a whole roasted quail stuffed with red peppers, shiitakes, and hazelnuts, served with a satay sabayon; or a two-part lamb dish with a confit shoulder in shiso leaf and a carré with artichoke and kumquat. There’s also a vegetarian option – panisses au zaatar with linguine of courgettes, stracciatella, and fig leaf oil. Desserts like millefeuille with poached peach and wild pepper, or a semolina cake with orange blossom and roasted cherries, show a confident hand with pastry.

The Atmosphere

Counter dining is a key feature – you can sit at the bar and watch the kitchen work. There’s also outdoor seating for warmer months. The space is relaxed, with a focus on the food and the moment. The wine list (available on request) complements the menu.

Erso’s Michelin Recommended status reflects the quality of its produce and the precision of its cooking. It’s a restaurant that doesn’t shout – it just cooks well, season by season.