This bijou emerald-green bar in the Marais is so named for its horseshoe-shaped counter, and it’s a joy to prop up at the le zinc for apéro, or even sit en terrasse watching the world go by, resting your feet after a day spent in the district’s museums and boutiques. But for the cosiest time here, request a table in the tiny back room, where chalked script on a blackboard menu prettily calls out the daily specials — usually a soup, along with a meat and fish main. You’ll swear you’re tucked away here in another decade.

Nestled in the heart of the Marais district, Au Petit Fer à Cheval is the quintessential Parisian bistro that invites you on a journey back in time. The name, meaning “the little horseshoe,” pays homage to its peculiar bar shaped like a horseshoe, a unique feature that has been a part of its charm since the early 20th century. Step through its doors, and you’ll be greeted by the warm hum of conversation and the rich, comforting aroma of French onion soup.

Le Petit Fer à Cheval in the 4th arrondissement of Paris is a classic that is easy to miss among the hustle and bustle of Rue Vieille du Temple. Despite its small size, this wooden bistro has a big personality and charm, starting with its magnificent U-shaped bar that encourages conversation and camaraderie. The backdrop of beautiful bottles adds to the ambiance, as do the vintage details like the 1950s telephone.

This Parisian café and late night eatery has been open for more than 100 years and has reign­ing pop­u­lar­i­ty. From first glance, Au Petit Fer à Cheval is the size of a shoe box with a smat­ter­ing of out­door seat­ing, but fear of small spaces should­n’t stop you from pony­ing up to one of France’s small­est bars. Once inside, the styl­ish­ly shab­by atmos­phere will engulf any qualms.

Located in the lively Marais district, Au Petit Fer à Cheval is a tiny, traditional bistro with a horseshoe-shaped bar. This charming restaurant serves classic French dishes like steak tartare, escargots, and duck confit, all at reasonable prices. The bistro is known for its cozy atmosphere and friendly service, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Slap bang in the must-see district of Le Marais, Le Petit Fer a Cheval or ‘The Little Horseshoe’ is a teeny tiny little café with an iconic and rare horseshoe-shaped ‘zinc’ (iconic metal countertop in Paris cafés). The perfect spot for a morning coffee or evening drink before checking out the bookshop-cum-wine bar Le Belle Hortense on the other side of the street!

This relaxed little bistro on Rue de Temple doesn’t need a spot on this list. Not because it’s not worth stopping by but because its fabulous green facade, cute sidewalk tables, and U-shaped bar will undoubtedly draw you in even if you weren’t planning on stopping by. Grab a champagne or house wine and embrace the life of a Parisian.

Address: 30 Rue Vieille du Temple, 75004 Paris, FranceWebsite: Au Petit Fer à Cheval. Warning/Update: I received a disappointing report that the steak tartare here has dropped in quality, so I can no longer recommend this for the time being. Better off to just have a glass of wine or a coffee here and save your precious meal slot.

Au Petit Fer à Cheval is in le Marais, and they are known for their bright pink steak tartare. Also served with an array of sides, you’ll mix your meat pile yourself, choosing from the many ingredients on your plate. They won’t always bring Worcestershire sauce, so request some if this is your preference.

If you’re after a truly French tarte tatin that’s no frills, no silly price, just melt in the mouth deliciousness, Le Petit Fer a Cheval is a must. Located in the Marais area, the tarte tatin has been this eatery’s highlight for years. People come from all over to get a taste of the speciality dessert!

Along with La Pure Café, Bourdain recommends Au Petit Fer à Cheval for a similar experience around the café’s famous horseshoe-shaped marble counter – which is how the place got its name (“The Little Horseshoe”).

Also, in le Marais on one of the main streets, Au Petit Fer à Cheval has terrific French onion soup. It is a cozy spot that doesn’t have a lot of tables. Chez Janou is always a favorite.