It’s an unlikely partnership—a French bistro serving up moules and frites in Kensington’s tattered, mostly South American vibe—but it works. A loyal following squeezes into this small, funky eatery to select from handwritten menus. Entrées are very French, from a soupe du jour of carrot cardamom to escargots that look and taste a little clichéd with their garlic butter bath and mushroom lids. Terrine of foie gras is a boozy affair, smooth and rich as butter, with hints of cognac. La Palette’s meat is sourced from Ontario and Quebec; elk, bison and venison appear as specials, as might caribou from Nunavut. A pristine chunk of tilapia melts into a lacklustre bouillabaisse, but the emmenthal-laden crostini raft, with its garlicky smear of red rouille, compensates with plenty of flavour. A crème brûlée trio arrives as if off the cover of Gourmet. The wine list is limited. Mains $18–$35.