Le Relais de Venise Mon Entrecôte: The Parisian Steak-Frites Experience That Never Changes
If you’ve ever searched for a good steak-frites spot in Paris, chances are you’ve come across Le Relais de Venise. It’s been around since 1959, serving just one thing: steak-frites with their famous secret sauce. No menu, no choices, no fuss. You sit down, they ask how you like your steak cooked, and that’s it. It’s a formula that hasn’t changed in over 60 years.
First Things First: The Line
Let’s talk about the elephant in the room: there’s almost always a queue. The restaurant doesn’t take reservations, so unless you arrive early, expect to wait outside. But the line moves fairly quickly. Once inside, things run like a well-oiled machine – seating, ordering, and serving all happen fast.
The Setup & Atmosphere
Le Relais de Venise is a classic French bistro in every sense: small tables pushed close together, bustling waitresses in traditional black-and-white uniforms, and walls decorated with paintings and mirrors. It’s lively, a little noisy, and packed with locals and tourists.
If you’re after an intimate, quiet dinner, this might not be your scene. But if you want that energetic Parisian dining vibe, you’re in the right place.
The Meal: No Decisions Necessary
Your meal starts with a simple green salad topped with walnuts and dressed with a mustard vinaigrette. It’s fresh, tangy, and a nice lead-in to the main event – steak and fries.
The steak arrives sliced, covered in the restaurant’s famous sauce (which has a devoted following), and accompanied by crispy, golden fries. And here’s the best part: once you finish your first plate, they bring you seconds. More steak, more fries, more sauce.
The sauce itself is a bit of a mystery. Some say it’s a blend of butter, herbs, and a touch of mustard, while others swear there’s liver or some kind of spice mix involved. Whatever’s in it, it’s rich, slightly creamy, and unlike anything you’ll find elsewhere.
The steak is good – nothing over-the-top fancy, just a solid cut cooked to your preference. The fries? Thin, crisp, and perfect for soaking up that sauce.
Dessert & Wine
If you have room for dessert – and even if you don’t – it’s worth looking at the options. The profiteroles are a classic choice, filled with ice cream and covered in melted chocolate, and many say they’re some of the best in Paris.
There’s crème brûlée, fruit tarts, and the house-made Gâteau du Relais. If you’re in the mood for something refreshing, they have sorbets, including raspberry and one made with Marc de Bourgogne. The praline liégeois is another standout, as is the Mont-Blanc, a chestnut cream dessert that’s hard to find outside of France.
They even have a sticky toffee pudding and New York-style cheesecake. And for wines, there’s a good selection of reds, whites, and rosés at reasonable prices, including their house wine, “Reserve du Relais.”
Customer feedback
Most people who visit Le Relais de Venise leave talking about one thing: the sauce. It’s the reason regulars keep coming back. The steak is good, the fries are crisp, and the second serving makes it feel like a great deal, especially in Paris.
The whole experience is quick and efficient, with no time wasted on menus or choices. The moment you sit down, the process begins. The atmosphere is lively, sometimes chaotic, but for many, that’s part of the charm. It’s a bistro in the truest sense, packed with people who know exactly what they came for.
The biggest complaint is the line. Since there are no reservations, waits can be long, especially during peak hours. Once inside, tables are squeezed together, making it feel a little too close for comfort if you’re used to more space.
Some people find the service a bit rushed – efficient, but not particularly warm. If you’re expecting long conversations with the staff, this isn’t that kind of place.
For most, the simplicity is what makes it special. You come for one thing, you get exactly that, and it’s been the same for decades. If you’re looking for variety, a relaxed meal, or a quiet evening, this might not be your spot.
But if you’re up for a no-nonsense, old-school Parisian dining experience, it’s easy to see why people keep coming back.
Pricing and Practical
For Paris, the price is fair. The set meal (salad, steak, fries, and seconds) is €30, while desserts range from €5 to €9. Wine starts at €5 per glass and goes up from there.
The restaurant is located at 271 Boulevard Pereire, 75017 in Paris. It’s open daily for lunch and dinner, usually from 12:00 pm – 2:30 pm (2:45 pm on weekends) and 7:00 pm – 11:00 pm.