I have just finished watching Michel Roux's Service on BBC2 and it has brought back memories of my recent trip to Paris with friend and fellow internet entrepreneur, Sophie Garrett of yours2share, and the wonderful meal we enjoyed last Saturday night at Le Pétel.

As the trip was a quick 'in and out' to do some buying for Caradiaz, we couldn't afford wasting time travelling around Paris looking for good places to eat. So a few days earlier I did a search on restaurants in the 15ème arrondissement, where we were going to be based, and several websites (including Top Table and Trip Advisor) recommended Le Pétel, a little gem hidden in the rue of the same name. And booking a table was definitely the right decision, not only because of the gorgeous food but also because the place is quite small (about ten tables) and filled up very quickly!

The menu looked very promising and, after checking with our waiter that our French wasn't letting us down (we almost ordered kidneys by mistake!) the delicious dishes began to arrive at the table in a timely manner. First a starter of langoustine ravioli for myself...

... and a sea bream tarte with mango and coriander for Sophie.

My main course was a rather big rib roast with dauphinoise potatoes, greens and a delicious Banyuls sauce... (which you can't see here because I only poured it over the food after I took the picture - sorry!)

... and Sophie had fileted duck with a honey and ginger sauce.

For dessert, a cheese platter for myself and créme burlée for Sophie - but I'm afraid I have no pictures of these to show you; Sophie and I were so deep into our conversation that by the time I noticed I hadn't taken any more pictures, our plates were empty!

All of the above delicious dishes were washed down with champagne to start with, followed by a carafe of red - it was the waiter who actually suggested the carafe rather than a full bottle, since we had already had the champagne beforehand - so very considerate of him not wanting us to get drunk!

As for the bill, well Sophie didn't let me see it but, looking at the prices on the menu board, there was nothing outrageous. I seem to remember it was €26 for a two course meal or €31 for three courses.

It was the perfect end to a busy, tiring day - wonderful food, good service and great value - and both Sophie and I agreed that we'd love to go back with our other halves when we are in Paris next.

So until then... au revoir, Le Pétel!