It's like walking into the first class dining car on a train from the 1920's. The bartenders are always tidy and stressed in could-kill-you-with-graciousness kind of way. It is very French which can take some time when it comes to ordering. Not to mention the specials are hand-written on the left margin of the menu. An English menu is available for rejects like me who are still remembering what shark is in French.
Again, my love of the counter has a home. A long, long bar set for full dining. You'll see everything from Sex In the City like groups of girls who could care less if men were ogling them because they're so involved in some good dish to what look like unshaven musicians to professor like men huddled around a table as if they've been going there for years.
The food is fresh, timely and presented beautifully. I saw the squid come out and I thought it was a bouquet of flowers. Next time, I'm definitely trying it.
It can be a little pricey but when every other good restaurant is closing, L'express is just picking up.
Grab someone by the hand and huddle in the foyer until you are lead to the perfect seat. Every table seems to have a good story, including yours.