The Estaminets of Northern France

You know the bistrots of Paris and the bouchons of Lyon, but are you familiar with the estaminets of northern France? Cozy, casual, rustic cafés that feature Flemish dishes of the region, including carbonnade Flamande and the signature potjevleesch, a terrine of 4 meats cooked in beer encased in a gelled broth served, as the French love so much, with a side of frites. You can also enjoy board games with friends there after a nice meal.

I feel northern France and its most prominent city, Lille, which bumps up against the Belgium-France border, is an often overlooked destination. However, it has amazing charm, distinct architecture, and hearty and delicious regional dishes.

What is the meaning of the word “estaminet”? There are different explanations, but one is that, because the area was once controlled by the Spanish, men would come into the cafés and ask if there were women there: “Esta mina?”