Can a good meal change the course of football history? The game has long had a rich appetite for stats, tactics and slo-mo replays, but sometimes the fates are decided elsewhere: in the hidden stories, the private moments when moods shift and bonds are forged. In other words, at restaurants such as Giusé.

It was here, on the opulent Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, where many believe Paris Saint-Germain launched their run to the 2020 Champions League final. Beaten by Dortmund in their round of 16 opener, the Paris players closed ranks at the trattoria co-owned by Italian midfielder Marco Verratti. They emerged united, focused, determined. And, if our own experience is anything to go by, extremely well fed.

Giusé does not milk its Verratti connection – and nor does it need to. Chic yet family friendly, this outpost of Cucina Italiana makes a play for the senses on its own terms, with its warm red fabrics and elegant mirrors particularly enticing. The decor is comforting and refined; these themes also play out on the plate.

The food itself ticks all the best boxes, combining fine-dining excellence with the generosity of a family feast. Fried calamari? Delicious and copious. Aubergine parmesan? Same and same. And those are just for starters. To follow, the fettucine with onion confit, butter sauce, truffles and parmesan comes served in a heavy metal pan, a nod to home cooking augmented by the creamy tastes within.  

Familiar classics and creative innovations: Giusé has them up and down the menu, including a layered mousse gianduiotto that turns nearby heads. The sprawling wine list is another success, while the staff add a pleasing personal touch with table-side flourishes of preparation. Stay late and a house DJ switches up the ambience. But whenever you visit, Giusé will leave you with a full stomach and positive thoughts.