It is my parents and I's first time to Lille and we are looking for a recommendation for a good French meal but not expensive enough that you need to dress up for.. It should be preferably within walking distance from the Grand Place. If anyone has any recommendations that would be great as I've just driven myself slightly crazy searching online.
A very traditional and very good one, inexpensive, is "Au Vieux de la Vieille" in the heart of the Vieux Lille. Traditional northern France food. Not fancy at all, but pretty good, if more "hearty" than "gourmet".
Caution, this NY Times article is 12 years old, and I haven't been to the restaurants reviewed. I have tried to create a "gift" link, with no paywall, but it's hard for me to test.
Choice Tables
Flemish Comfort Food in French Flanders
By Alexander Lobrano
Feb. 18, 2011