Le Petit Parisien
16 Grove Lane, SE5 8SY Tel: 0207 703 9990
On the site previously inhabited by the Dark Horse, Le Petit Parisien claims to be London’s first French gastropub. On first glance it looks just like the Dark Horse, down to the furniture, though with a new coat of green paint. However, looking closely there are some nice touches. Street lamplight reflects the restaurant’s name from the window onto the walls, quirky pictures adorn the walls, and the vibe is relaxed yet there is something of the occasion to it. Like the Dark Horse, the more relaxed bar area is to the left and dining is to the right. Seating is comfy on soft chairs and low sofas, and the bar is well stocked with French wines, beers, and a particularly well executed cocktail list. The redheaded barman makes the best mohitos in Camberwell. They do jazz on Sundays, and have a ‘Cous Cous night’ on Mondays. The atmosphere is convivial, but drinking at Petit Parisien feels like more of an occasion than grabbing a drink in some of the other local pubs. This French ‘gastropub’ is a fine addition to Camberwell.