In the heart of Belleville, Chez Alex Wenzhou is one of those places that span the decades without losing an ounce of their authenticity. Opened in 1992, this restaurant has become a true institution for anyone who loves no-frills Chinese cuisine: generous, aromatic and served with a smile. There is no need for trendy decor or sophisticated storytelling: here, everything happens on the plate and in the lively atmosphere of the street.

Chinese food with real character

At Alex's, the star is Wenzhou street food. Steamed pork baozi, properly golden homemade jiaozi, well-spiced mapo tofu or garlic stir-fried aubergines which rank among the best in the neighbourhood: each dish has that addictive quality which has made the place a success for over 30 years. People also come back for the stir-fried dishes that are wonderfully crunchy, enhanced by well-balanced homemade sauces. As for the rice and noodles, the portions are frankly generous: between a rfried noodles with Chinese cabbage or fragrant noodle pad, you quickly end up with a plate that can feed two people. In short, simple but effective food, perfect for sharing and enjoying together.

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Low prices for a massive feast

That is the other reason behind Chez Alex's longevity: its hearty dishes at prices that make you smile. Starters start at around €5, hot dishes between €9 and €12, and a full meal with drinks hardly exceeds €20 per person. In Paris, that’s practically a miracle. Here, you can treat yourself to homemade Chinese specialities without fearing a hefty bill, which explains why this spot remains a reliable favourite for both local regulars and the curious wandering around Belleville.

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A raw and working-class atmosphere

Don’t expect a trendy spot with neon coloured lights: Chez Alex keeps things simple. Cramped tables, fast service, lively chatter and dishes flying out of the kitchen: the atmosphere is vibrant, sometimes noisy, but always friendly. It feels more like a local canteen than a cosy restaurant, and that’s precisely what makes the place so endearing. At Chez Alex, you’re just as likely to run into regulars picking up takeaway bao as groups of friends sharing large stir-fried dishes. Add to that smiling, efficient staff, and you have the recipe for a place where you quickly feel right at home.

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Why do we love it?

• Must-try baozi and jiaozi in the 20th arrondissement
• Generous, simple and tasty Chinese cuisine
• Unbeatable prices for Paris
• A lively and down-to-earth atmosphere
• A historic Belleville venue
  
  

• Address: 24 rue de Belleville, 75020 Paris
• Telephone: 01 46 36 56 33
• Opening hours: every day from 11:30 to 22:30, closed on Thursdays
• Website : restaurantwenzhou.fr
• Instagram: @wenzhouchezalex

Leaving Chez Alex Wenzhou, you are left with that little taste of popular Chinese comfort food that warms both the belly and the soul. An unpretentious place, but one that makes you want to go back again and again. And that is often the best proof of quality.