Brasserie de la Paix

Brasserie de la Paix is a classic French grand brasserie at 25 Place Rihour in central Lille, in the Hauts-de-France region of northern France. It occupies a historic square beside the Palais Rihour and the tourist office, within walking distance of the Grand'Place and the main shopping streets.

The cooking is traditional French brasserie fare rather than regional northern cuisine. The magret de canard, seared duck breast, is a staple of the menu, and the sole meunière, the pan-fried sole finished in brown butter, is the classic fish dish. Profiteroles, choux pastry filled with ice cream and covered in warm chocolate sauce, are the traditional finish. Mains cost roughly €22 to €35, putting it at the upper-middle end of the city's brasseries.

The dining room follows the grand brasserie model, with an elegant, polished interior and professional service. Dress is smart-casual, noise is moderate, and the mood suits business lunches, family dinners and visitors wanting a traditional French meal in the city centre. In warm weather the square-side position makes outdoor seating attractive.

The wine list follows the standard French brasserie pattern with regional French bottles and wines by the glass, and a digestif after the meal is customary. Service is daily, with lunch from 12:00 to 14:30 and dinner from 19:00 to 22:00. Reservations are recommended for dinner, particularly on Friday and Saturday and during Lille's busy events such as the Braderie weekend in early September, when the city fills with visitors.