Seemor
Le PalanquinA-Worth Trying
4 Pl. Boulnois, 75017 Paris, France
· Vietnamese restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (214 reviews)
Reservations · Takeout
Intimate, personality-forward Vietnamese spot with standout pho and house soups, warm but theatrical service, and prices on the high side for generous flavors in a tiny room.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
Le Palanquin delivers A-grade performance through exceptional food quality—particularly its signature pho and Palanquin soup—paired with warm, memorable service from owner-operators who treat regulars like family. The intimate five-table setting creates genuine charm but limits capacity, while solid consistency across visits reinforces its reputation as a neighborhood gem worth seeking out, though higher pricing and modest decor prevent it from reaching grade A territory.
Restaurant Summary
On a quiet 17th arrondissement lane, this tiny room hums with warm, theatrical service and the clink of bowls of steaming broth. Guests describe being welcomed like old friends, noting, "We felt looked after from the moment we sat down." Reservations help because there are very few tables and the energy leans lively when full. Cooking skews classic Vietnamese with refined, home-style touches: a deeply aromatic pho, a prawn-and-coconut Palanquin soup that regulars swear by, and caramelized grilled meats over herbs and vermicelli. Portions are calibrated so you can enjoy a starter and a main, and while prices are higher than a casual pho shop, most diners feel the quality and care justify the bill. Families fit right in thanks to the friendly, flexible team. Kids gravitate to noodles, rice, and mild chicken or pork, and desserts like mango coconut tapioca or coconut pearls are easy wins. There is no formal kids menu, but simple sides and familiar flavors make it straightforward for younger palates.
At a Glance
- Rich, memorable pho and house Palanquin soup
- Warm, engaging family service in a cozy setting
- Prices above basic Vietnamese spots
- Very small room; reservations strongly advised
- Banterful service style may not suit everyone
What Sets It Apart
- house_signature_soup
- charismatic_hosts
- tiny_intimate_room
What People Love
- Aromatic, balanced broths that linger
- Playful, personal hospitality
- Signature Palanquin soup and grilled meats
- Feeling like part of the family in a tiny room
Points of Concern
- Pricing can feel high to some compared with casual Vietnamese venues
- Very small space; walk-ins frequently turned away at peak times
- Host banter divides opinion—charming to many, too forward for some
- Bo bun consistency varies, with a few bland reports
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost€43-52 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Start with Soupe Palanquin then share a grilled pork main; finish with Chè xoài for a balanced three-course arc at about €45-50 per person
Perfect For
- Cozy date night with comforting bowls of broth
- Neighborhood dinner with personable hosts
- Solo bite at off-peak times
- Travelers seeking a small, characterful spot
Location Insights
Area: Quiet residential-meets-commercial pocket of 17th with local boutiques and calm streets; draws neighborhood diners and nearby visitors.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit streets, steady foot traffic in evenings.
Nearby: Near Rue Poncelet market streets, shops, and small bistros; not far from Arc de Triomphe.
BatignollesBatignolles is characterized by its lively yet relaxed dining scene, featuring a mix of traditional bistros, trendy cafes, and innovative restaurants. The area has a strong community feel with local markets and green spaces, making it popular for casual dining and social gatherings.
Place BoulnoisPlace Boulnois is a small, peaceful square within Batignolles, known for its charming atmosphere and a handful of cozy eateries that attract locals seeking a calm dining experience away from the busier parts of the arrondissement.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday12:00–14:00, 07:30–22:00
Wednesday12:00–14:00, 07:30–22:00
Thursday12:00–14:00, 07:00–22:00
Friday12:00–14:00, 07:30–22:00
Saturday07:30–22:00
Sunday
Available: Reservations, Takeout
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