I went to a restaurant many years ago and cannot recall the name. I am sure it is still there... possibly you can help.
What I recall:
OLD place. I think it has been in operation since the 1800's, maybe longer.
The waiters are all men and the place served as jobs for men leaving the prison system. So all the waiters are ex-cons.
The menu is traditional French country. Simple stuff like roasted pigs feet and fried potatoes.
I seem to recall that the restaurant was not entered from a main street. I am not sure if it was an alley or just a small side street. I think there was some sort of arch I walked under.
It's a big place and very, very busy.
Any guesses?

Ex-cons as waiters?

I’d better leave a generous tip if I go there.

Chartier?

Yes, I was thinking of Chariter also, but not at all sure about the convicts. The Bouillons Chartier where a before-their-time chain of restaurant for working men who could come and get a fulfilling meal for a low price. They were usually large places and had cubbyholes so the patrons could leave their rolled up napkings for the next day. But the time and the general feel as described by TxTravelpro sounds right.

Restaurant Chartier is a 1890's belle epoque grand open space. I recall it had a very high ceiling, and stairs leading to a first floor dining area overlooking the ground floor main dining room.

Woody

that's correct. It dates from 1896
www.restaurant-chartier.com.
It's in th 9th in Montmartre

Thank you! It is certainly Chartier!
The person describing it to me way back when appears to have been incorrect about the convicts as waiters... but I recall mine was pretty rough around the edges, so it seemed to fit.
It's really a beautiful place.
Thanks again for helping me with the name!
Laura

Our waiter was rather surly. I don't know if he did time in prison.

Woody