Beaujolais bistro bar — equal parts classic French brasserie, long-standing social institution and esteemed kitchen training camp — had a fairly recent revamp thrust upon it when a fire almost razed the whole place to the ground. But the essence of what made it so popular in the first place still remains, thanks to a refurbishment clever enough not to attempt to replicate history but sensitive enough to the legend to recreate the informal, efficient, cosy but smart ambience that has earned ‘Le Beau’ legions of devoted fans. The airy, tastefully lit conservatory area keeps things bright and breezy indoors, while a truly delightful little alfresco area out back is a summer day’s hotspot. Lost? A stockpile of corks stacked up in the window let you know you’ve arrived.

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A-Z of Bath Restaurants • Alfresco hotspots • Bath Institutions • Lazy cafes & restaurants • Romantic restaurants