From the famed Les Amis group of restaurants hails another jewel in its crown: Sebastien's Bistrot. Sitting pretty along a row of eateries along Greenwood Avenue , this 5-year-old, more down-to-earth cousin to the better-known Les Amis and Au Jardin exudes a friendly, welcoming feel. Frequented by locals and expatriates alike, Sebastien's is an ideal spot for a hearty French meal without the frills of fine dining.

• The Vibe
  Everything about Sebastien's, from the brown awnings shading patrons sitting outdoors, to the various ornaments decorating the restaurant, as well as the red checkered lamps hanging from the ceiling, emanates a uniquely French charm. French cartoons and newspaper cutouts framed on the walls, give the premises a quaint old-world feel, and it is not hard to imagine yourself in Paris when dining in the courtyard in the recesses of the restaurant. Cheery French folk-tunes are the music of choice, while the voices of the French expatriates at the next table will further authenticate your dining experience.

• The Food
  Sebastien's menu boasts a range of traditional French fare, done with much finesse under the supervision of experienced chef, Paul Kek. A good choice of starter for the uninitiated would be the Soupe à l'Oignon Gratinee ($12) or the gratinated French onion soup. Found in most French restaurants, Sebastien's version is slightly sweet with the taste of onions, and quite tasty. It's best savoured on a cold day, when the warm soup is heavenly going down your throat. Comfort food indeed. For the more adventurous diner, definitely try the L'escargot au beurre dail ($18), or escargots in garlic butter. Once you get over the fact that the tasty morsels you are lunching on are snails, the dish is a wonder on the palate. Fragrant with garlic, the juicy escargot is surprisingly mild-tasting and tender.

  The all-time French favourite Confit de Canard ($30) or duck confit is, in a word, sinful. Deep-fried to perfection with a resultant delightfully crispy skin, accompanied by the juicy layer of fat under, this main course is not for those watching their waistlines. Also, being a tad salty, it will make you reach for your glass of water more frequently than you should.

  Those in the mood for some homemade goodness can try the Boeuf Bourguignon ($30), which is beef stewed in red wine served with mashed potatoes on the side. Succulent chunks of beef in the hearty stew done with a good dose of red wine, it is surprisingly sweet and salty all at once. The mashed potatoes are a delicious complement, seasoned just right and delectably tasty.

  Do save space for dessert, as the French are known for their skill in manipulating the sweet tooth. The Fondant au Chocolat, Glace a la Vanille ($10) or baked warm chocolate cake with vanilla ice cream is a winner. Toasty from the oven and decadent with an ooze of chocolate, one bite isn't enough. Vanilla ice cream served on the side makes this even more of a treat for dessert lovers.

• The Service
  Warm and hospitable, the service may well be reminiscent of small French bistros dotting the French countryside. Sebastien, the friendly owner and restaurant's namesake, will welcome you with a firm handshake, while his staff is helpful and knowledgeable.

The SD Food Advisor's Take on Sebastien's:
Charming and unpretentious, Sebastien's presents a facet of the Les Amis Group that diners may not be used to. A refreshing change from the usually somewhat intimidating French dining experience, feel free to bring your friends and family to this homely eatery for a touch of France right in Singapore.