French food without hoity frills is difficult to find, as for some reason the reputation of the cuisine lends itself to culinary snobbery, even though the tenets of authentic French food are simple, working-class ingredients. PETIT ROBERT BISTRO manages an honest, hearty menu served with a hint of the eau de fine dining that is adored by American Francophiles. The food is rustic and, the best part, affordable.

PETIT ROBERT BISTRO | 468 Comm Ave, Boston | 617.375.0699 | one other location in Boston | petitrobertbistro.com