Paris Restaurant Guide
Terri March 14th, 2007
Paris is known for its many wonderful restaurants; after all the French are the connoisseurs of the good life. It has been said “you can’t get a bad meal in Paris”. Well, 
we have had several bad meals (especially in some of the tourist trap restaurants of the Latin Quarter). We would like to amend the statement to read “You do not have to pay a fortune to get a really fine meal in Paris” Some of the listed restaurants are expensive, but they are worth the money. The less expensive places are also good restaurants that might lack nothing more than a world-famous chef or a fabulous location. I am not listing the obvious Michelin-starred restaurants, you know that they will be fabulous. I am listing restaurants that average travelers can afford on a trip to Paris; places where we have eaten and enjoyed our meal.
Be sure to look at the menus (Cartes) posted near the door of every restaurant; they will give you an idea of the prices and the type of dishes served. Those on a budget should consider the Menu du Jour. Menus are fixed price meals usually consisting of a starter, main dish and dessert. Many restaurants give choices and different price levels for different menus. They are usually less expensive than purchasing the items a la Carte.
In January 2008, all restaurants and cafes in Paris will be required by law to be non-smoking. Some restaurants have already decided to do so right now; others have designated non-smoking areas or designated smoking areas. In looking at our recommendations, please note that an asterisk * beside the name of the restaurant means it is non-smoking or has non-smoking areas. And GV means Good Value.
We are also adding this link to vegetarian restaurants in Paris. We haven’t checked them out yet, but some of you may want to try them and let us know what you think.
Key: * = no-smoking establishment, GV = Good Value, $ = inexpensive, $$ = Moderate, $$$ = Moderate to Expensive, $$$$ = Expensive.
Ist Arrondissement
The first Arrondissement is in the very heart of the city. It is walking distance to most tourist sites and therefore is more expensive. Some fabulous hotels are located here; but we have found a few less expensive gems as well.
L’Absinthe $$ GV
This bistrot in the heart of Paris, now part of the Michel Rostang group, has become something of a haute bistro. It is still casual and comfortable but has been taken up a notch or two. Enjoy the terrace in warm weather at this central Paris restaurant.
24 place du Marché Saint Honoré
Metro: Tuilleries
Tel: 33 1 49 26 90 04
Open: Mon - Fri 12pm - 2pm, Mon - Sat 7pm - 11pm Closed Sundays
Bistrot Saint-Honore*
$ GV
This is a traditional Bistro specializing in Burgundian food. A small and charming bistro with personal service.
10 rue Gomboust
Metro: Pyramides/Tuileries
Open: Mon-Fri, closed on Sat and Sun.
Tel: 33 1 42 61 77 78
Chez Denise $$ GV
An authentic bistro where you’ll find good food for the prices. It is crowded, but fun. We recommend you try this little gem, a best restaurant in Paris.
5 rue des Provaires
Metro: LeHalles/ Louvre-Rivoli
Tel: 33 1 42 36 21 82
L’Ardoise $ GV
Chef Pierre Jay offers one of the best values in in any center Paris restaurant with his superb cuisine at reasonable prices. The décor is unimaginative and the seating tight, so just close your eyes, snuggle up and enjoy the wonderful food at excellent prices.
28 rue du Mont-Thabor
Metro: Concorde/Tuileries
Tel: 01 42 96 28 18
2nd Arrondissement
The Second Arrondissement is in the heart of Paris close to everything including the Louvre, the gorgeous Opera Garnier, fabulous shopping and great restaurants.
A Priori Thé $$ GV
A popular and charming tea salon great for a light lunch or snack. The pastries and cakes are lovely. Located in a beautiful gallery, you will enjoy the surroundings as much as the food in this center Paris restaurant. Good for Sunday brunch.
35-37 Galerie Vivienne
Metro: Palais Royale/Pyramide
Tel: 33 1 42 97 48 75
Cafe Runtz $$ GV
The owner and chef, Hubert Leport and his wife Odette are from Strasbourg, and they have brought their wonderful Alsace style cooking to Paris. Their specialties include many variations of Choucroute (sauerkraut) platters.
16 rue Favart
Metro: Richelieu-Drouot / Opera
Tel: 01 42 96 69 86
Open: Mon-Fri 11:45am-2:45pm and 6-11:30pm, Sat dinner.
Closed: Sundays and three weeks in August.
Chez Georges $$
A friendly, neighborhood style, Parisian bistro, located off the place des Victories. The specialty of the house is the Onglet de boeuf (pan-seared hanger steak) served with Pomme Frites (French fries). Bistro cooking at its best. A favorite of Patricia Wells and worthy of our Paris restaurant guide.
1 rue de Mail
Metro: Sentier
Tel: 01 42 60 07 11
Open: Mon-Sat noon-2pm and 7:30-9:30pm
Drouant $$$$
A quiet and classic restaurant where the food is always superb. Antoine Westermann expresses cuisine at Drouant in which he revisits appetizers “à la française”, putting the spotlight on quality products while continuing to give the place of honor to vegetables.Drouant is a place where the product is “king” and “the traditions blend”. This is a top Paris restaurant.
8 rue Gallion
Metro: Opera / Quartre-September
Tel: 33 1 42 65 15 16
Fontaine Gaillon $$$
Gérard Depardieu owns this restaurant with Carole Bouquet. As the gourmets they both are, these accomplices opted for quality products at affordable prices. The vinotheque set in the middle of the dining room lists 150 references, selected on the advice of famous critique Robert Parker. Set near the Opéra” Garnier, this Paris famous restaurant is just the place for pre-opera dinners or business lunches. Very good food, in a quiet and tasteful setting.
Metro: Opéra
Tel: 33 1 47 42 63 22
3rd Arrondissement
The Third Arrondissement is near the beautiful Place de Vosges and the nearby Marais district. It is busy and vibrant.
Au Bascou $$ GV
This is a modern bistro with a quirky decor, but don’t let that keep you away. The owner and chef, Jean-Guy Lousteau demands that only the freshest foods will be served at his tables and we are the beneficiaries of his commitment. He is from the Basque region of France, so look for the Basque influence in his cooking.
38 rue Reamur
Metro: Arts ét Métiers
Ambassade d’Auv
ergne $$
The name describes this restaurant to a tee. They are truly ambassadors for the Auvergne region of France. The food served is all Auvergne specialties, right down to the regional cheese plates. This is a casual and homey place for simple, rustic, but delicious food. Open: Daily noon-2pm and 7:30-10:30pm
22 rue du Grenier St. Lazare
Metro: Rambuteau
Tel: 33 1 42 72 31 22
L’Alisier $$
Dine to your heart’s content in either the Bistro style lower restaurant or the more elegant upstairs. Interesting, well-prepared dishes are served by owner/chef Jean-Luc Dodeman. You will love this top Paris restaurant.
26 rue de Montmorency
3rd Arr
Tel: 01 42 72 31 04
Open: noon-2pm and 7:30-10pm. Closed Sat., Sun and August.
Le Guirlande de Julie $$ -$$$
Located on The Place de Vosges, this fine restaurant offers good food as well as a great view. The lovely décor brings everything to a harmonious dining experience. There is outdoor seating under the vaulted arcades in nice weather.
N25 Pl des Vosges
Metro: Saint Paul
Tel: 01 48 87 94 07
Open: Daily noon-2:30pm and 7-10pm
Le Bar a Huitres (Le) Beaumarchais $$
Oysters, other shellfish and fish are the specialties here and you can even design your own sea food platter. Meat is available for those who must have it. Enjoy yourself in this restaurant that doesn’t take itself too seriously. Open: Daily noon-2am
33 Blvd Beaumarchais
Metro: Bastille
Tel: 01 48 87 98 92
4th Arrondissement
The Fourth Arrondissement lies along the Seine and on the Ile St. Louis. It is near Notre Dame and the Hotel du Ville. A lush and beautiful area known for its beautiful bridges (ponts).
L’ Ambroisie $$$$
Located on the beautiful Place des Vosges, this restaurant is one to save for special occasions. The Renaissance decor is perfect and the food is beyond that! Service is without a fault, and you pay dearly for the whole wonderful experience. This is clearly a best restaurant in Paris!
9 Place des Vosges
Metro: Bastille, St Paul
Tel: 01 42 78 51 45
Le Trumilou GV $
You might walk right past this bistrot; as it has a rather inconspicuous storefront, and the interior is in need some updating. But, don’t let that deter you. The food is very good and the prices are excellent. We had the duck with prunes and it was wonderful. We hope you agree that it belongs in our Paris restaurant guide.
84 quai de l’Hotel de Ville
Metro: Pont Marie
Tel: 01 42 77 63 98
Open: Daily noon-3pm and 7-11pm
Brasserie Bofinger* $$$
Across from the dazzling modernistic Opera Bastille, this well established brasserie conveys a feeling of timelessness. It is beautifully decorated with stained glass and antique brass. The food is very good, especially the shellfish. At Petit Bofinger next door, there is a separate smoking room
5 rue de la Bastille
Metro: Bastille
Tel: 01 42 72 87 82
Open: Mon-Fri noon-3pm and 6:30pm-1am; Sat and Sun 12 noon-1am
5th Arrondissement
The fifth Arrondissement is located on the left bank (rive gauche) with views of Notre Dame and proximity to the gloroius Luxembourg Gardens. Don’t even consider leaving Paris without a stroll through the Luxembourg Gardens.
L’Atelier Maitre Albert- Restaurant with Guy Savoy* $$$
With a menu designed by Guy Savoy in the capable hands of chef Emmanual Monsallier, you can’t go wrong. The setting is modern yet warmed by the hearth and the wonderful aromas of the rotisserie. This entire left bank restaurant is smoke free.
Open: for lunch from 12:30 to 2:30 Mon-Fri. For dinner Sun - Wed from 6:30pm to 11:30 pm, Thurs - Sat from 6:30pm to 1am.
1 rue Maitre-Albert
Tel: 01-56-81-30-01
Metro: Maubert
Les Bouchons de Francois Cleric $$
Around the corner from Notre Dame, you’ll find this lovely little left bank restaurant to be a real winner. The owner, Francois Clerc serves wine at his cost, so it is a good place to sample a wine you have been dying to try. The food is creative and delicious. Specialties include tournedos de thon (pan-fried tuna) in this fine restaurant Paris Latin Quarter.�
12 rue de l’hotel Colbert
Metro: Maubert-Mutualité
Tel: 01 43 54 15 34
Open: noon-2pm and 7:30-10:30pm
Balzar $ GV
The Brasserie Flo chain owns this restaurant. It is still one of the best brasseries in the Latin Quarter and a good place for eating during off-hours. A very good value for this well located left bank restaurant.
49 rue des Ecoles
Metro: Odeon / Cluny-La Sorbonne
Tel: 01 43 54 13 67
Open: Daily noon-midnight
Le Rostand $$
Newly redecorated, this brasserie is just the place for a great lunch or cup of coffee. This left bank restaurant has been a family oriented place for years, but is now courting the younger, hipper crowd.
6 pl Edmond Rostand
Tel : 01 43 54 61 58
6th Arrondissement
The sixth Arrondissement is also known as the Latin Quarter because the Sorbonne where students studied Latin at one time is in this area. A colorful neighborhood, the Latin Quarter is made up of winding cobblestone streets lined with little shops and restaurants.
L’Epi Dupin* $$$ GV
Reservations are advised, but not easy to get, at this intimate bistro. They are also closed weekends. The food is very good and the prices are good as well. So, if you do manage to get a reservation in this top Paris restaurant, consider yourself lucky.
11 rue Dupin
Metro: Sevres-Babylone
Open: Mon-Fri noon-2:30 and 7:30-11pm
La Table d’Aude $ GV
At this tiny restaurant near the Luxenbourg gardens, look for the tastes of the south. The Aude departement (for which the restaurant is named) is in the Languedoc-Roussillon region, an up-and-coming wine producing area. The menus here are inexpensive, creative and just plain good, plus they include wine. This is not a fancy place, but a restaurant -Paris Latin Quarter -you will remember.
8 rue de Vaugirard
Tel:33 1 43 26 36 36
Open: Mon-Sat noon-2pm and 7-10pm
Closed: Sundays and August
La Vigneraile $$$
Great service and a very attractive atmosphere bring the see and be seen crowd here in droves. The food is good, especially the traditional dishes. You will enjoy this fine left bank restaurant.
14 rue du Dragon
Tel: 01 45 48 57 04
Open: Daily noon-2:30 and 7-11:30pm
Closed: Lunch Sunday
Les Editeurs Cafe Restaurant* $$
Les Editeurs is just the place to have a cup of coffee and read a novel, or have lunch and a glass of wine or a snack. This is a hip, but comfortable place to wile away a few delicious hours. It offers a large non-smoking dining room.
4 Carrefour de l’Odeon
Tel: 33 1 43 26 67 76
Metro: Odeon
Open: Daily 8am to 2am
7th Arrondissement
The seventh Arrondissement is known as St-Germain-des-Pres because the church of that name is a landmark in the area. Great for shopping and eating, this area is lively and lovely.
Auberge du Champ de Mars $$
Fantastic French fare at really great prices. This family run left bank restaurant will make you feel like family as they wine and dine you in the old French style.
18 rue de l’Exposition
Metro: Ecole Militaire
Tel: 01 45 51 78 08
Aux Fins Gourmets $$
Southwest France cuisine is served at this unpretentious and truly Parisian little bistrot. Duck dishes and cassoulet (a white bean stew) are favorites.
213 Blvd St Germaine
Tel: 01 42 22 06 57
Open: Tues-Sat noon-2:30pm and 7:30-10pm; Mon 7:30-10pm
Chez les Anges* $$ GV
A contemporary brasserie that offers new and fresh cuisine as well as perfect steaks and grilled fresh fish. The menu follows market offerings. Jacques Lacipière former owner of the hugely popular bistro Au Bon Accueil, is the owner. With chef Stéphane Duchiron, you can expect great things. This left bank restaurant offers smoke-free dining rooms.
54 Blvd. de La Tour-Maubourg
Metro: La Tour-Maubourg
Tel:33 1-47-05-89-86
Open: Mon-Fri 12: 30-2pm and 7:30-11pm; Closed Saturday and Sunday
la Cigale Recamier $$
This is THE place in Paris for a souffle, whether sweet or savory, you will truly enjoy this French treat. But there are other great entrees available as well. On our recent trip to Paris, we liked it so much, we went back another day. It definately belongs in our Paris restaurant guide.
4 rue Recamier
Tel: 01 45 48 86 58
Tan Dinh $$$$
The sweet combination of French and Vietnamese cuisine which spotlights light, refined dishes proves a winner at this very nicely decorated restaurant. Excellent wine list, especially Pomerol. (no credit cards)
60 Rue de Verneuil
Tel: 01 45 44 04 84
Open: Mon-Sat noon-2pm and 7:30-11pm Closed: Aug
Les Ministeres GV $
This little restaurant is perfect for fish and shellfish dishes. We had the St Jacques ( scallops) and thought they were great…fresh and cooked to a tee. The Creme Brulee for dessert was smooth and creamy, just the way it should be.
30 rue du Bac
Tel: 01 42 61 22 37
Thoumieux $$ GV
The food here is good and prepared as they have for four generations. If you like cassoulet, try their version.
79 rue St. Dominique
Metro: Invalides
Tel: 01 47 05 49 75
Open: Daily noon-3pm and 6:30-midnight
Vin sur Vin $$$
This tiny restaurant has only 20 seats, but is worth trying to get in. The seasonal dishes are very creative and are prepared to perfection. The wine list is outstanding and well priced.
20 rue de Monttessuy
Tel: 33 1 47 05 14 20
Open: Daily noon-1:30 and 8-9:30pm
A La Petite Chaise $ GV
Founded in 1680, this restaurant claims to be the oldest in Paris. We have enjoyed a delicious and reasonably priced meal here and recommend it for a comfortable and low-key meal. We especially liked the fresh fish of the day.
36 rue de Grenellle
tel: 01 42 22 13 35
8th Arrondissement
The beautiful and expensive eighth Arrondissement in on the right bank (rive droit,) and hugs the glamorous Champs Elysees. Many of the great hotels of Paris are here as well as the famous couturiers and “Grands Magasins” (department stores) This is Paris at its most chic.
Bocconi Trattoria $$
Longing for a little Italian pasta or antipasti? You will find it right here in the 8th Arr. Chef Ciro Polge, formerly of Il Cortile, offers a fresh take on Tuscan cuisine all at quite reasonable prices.
10 bis rue d’Artois
Metro: St. Philippe-du-Roule
Tel: 01 53 76 44 44
Le Bistro de l’Olivier $$
If you are looking for a taste of Provence in the opulent 8th Arrondissement, look no further. You will love the flavors of the south and the warm welcome and service… all at a great price!
13 rue Quentin-Bauchart
Metro: George V
Tel: 01 47 20 78 63
L’Angle du Faubourg $$$
Little sister to Taillivent, here you can enjoy grand cuisine in a contemporary and warm setting. As with Taillevent, the service is superb and the inventive and delicious cuisine remarkable.
195 rue du Faubourg St.-Honore
Metro: Charles de Gaulle-Etoile
Tel: 01 40 74 20 20
L’Appart $$ GV
Good (not great) food served in a lively, comfortable atmosphere. This modern bistro is decorated like a warm, comfortable apartment. Pastas, salads and seasonal fare round out the menu. Good for Sunday Brunch with the kids.
9 rue de Colisée
Metro: Franklin D. Roosevelt
Tel: 01 53 75 16 34
Open: Daily noon-2:30pm and 7:30-midnight
Chiberta restaurant with Guy Savoy $$$
This ultra stylish restaurant will not put you off; the welcome is warm and the food is wonderfully prepared and well presented. Look for the special raviolis and excellent babas for dessert.
3 rue Arsene-Houssaye
Tel: 01 53 53 42 00
Open: Daily except Sat lunch and Sun.
Metro: Charles de Gaulle Etoile
L’Avenue $$$
A brasserie where the fashionable set meet to eat, L’Avenue is located at the intersection of Ave Montaigne and Francois1er (the heart of couture fashion.) The decor is cool and hip, and the food is now. No bargain pricing, alas.
41 Ave Montaigne
Tel: 01 40 70 14 91
Open: Daily 8a -midnight
Metro: Franklin d. Roosevelt
La Fermette Marbeuf $$$
The beautiful Belle Epoch mosaics and decor might be enough to draw you in to this great Paris bistro. And you won’t be disappointed in the food either as long as you are expecting good brasserie fare. If you like to eat where the Parisians do, this is the place.
5 rue Marbeuf
Tel: 01 53 23 08 00
Open: Daily noon-3pm and 7:30-11:30pm
Buddha Bar $$
Restaurant and bar with an Asian inspiration. Decorated to the max with a giant Buddah at the center. As soon as you’ve entered this remarkable place with its monumental proportions, you’ll be enthralled by the charm of its exotic atmosphere. Tres Trendy, but offers good food as well. A Buddha Bar recently opened in New York based on the success of this spot.
8/12 rue Boissy d’Anglas
Tel:01 53 05 90 00
Open: Daily noon-3pm and 7-midnight
Saveurs et Salon $$
We eat here whenever we are in Paris. This is a small bistro that serves good food in an elegant manner. Prices are very reasonable for this toney part of town.
3 rue Castellane
Tel: 01 40 06 97 97
Open: Daily noon-3pm and 7-midnight
Metro Madeliene
Spring
This tiny restaurant has taken Paris by storm. The chef is American born, the food is fabulous , and the price is outstanding. (About $50 for a price fixe dinner) There are no menu choices; you get what this inventive chef, Daniel Rose, decides to cook that evening. There is no way to walk in, reservations are mandatory. He has decide to add lunch on “most” Thursdays and Fridays this fall. A nice touch is that Chef Rose has his own Blog that will give you the latest dining news.
28 rue de la Tour d’Auvergne
Tel:+33 (0)1 45 96 05 72 (call between 6 and 7:45 pm)
10th Arrondissement
The 10th arrondissement centers around the Canal St. Martin and the restaurants and cafés which line its banks. The streets along the canal become car-free zones on Saturday afternoons/evenings, and all day on Sundays to make way for the Parisien cycling and roller-blading hoards. Two great train stations Gare du Nord and Gare de l’Est are located here as is the historic Place de la République in the far south of the arrondissement.
Brasserie Flo $
Part of a reliably good and popular chain, this is an authentic 1900s Alsatian brasserie, and it retains much of its original charm. It is a place to come with a crowd (everyone else does) it is loud and boisterous and if you like sauerkraut, you have it made.
7 cour des Petites-Ecuries
Metro: Château-d’Eau
Tel: 01 47 70 13 59
Open: Daily noon-3:30 and 7pm-1:30am
Chez Michel $$ GV
Thierry Breton, the chef has worked at some of the most famous Paris restaurants before starting out on his own. This charming little restaurant specializes in Breton cuisine, his home region. This place is too good to be true. (Note: not the best neighborhood at night… so take a cab. And it is better to dine upstairs than in the unappealing basement)
10 rue Belunce
Metro: Poissonnaire / Gare du Nord
Tel: 01 44 53 06 20
Open: Tue-Sat noon-2pm and 7pm-midnight Closed: Sun, Mon, Christmas week and August.
11th Arrondissement
The 11th Arrondissement is set near the place de la Republique and the Bastille. It is close to the Marais and is still considered central Paris.
Le Grand Méricourt* $$
This is just a great Paris restaurant. The menu is respectful of the season and uses fresh ingredients in imaginative ways. Another plus is that this a completely non-smoking restaurant.
106 rue dela Folie Mericourt
Tel: 33 1 43 38 94 04
Open: Mon-Fri noon-2:30pm and 8-10:30pm, Closed Aug
Metro: Saint-Ambroise
Le Bistrot du Peinture $ GV
This restaurant is a fabulous bargain. The dishes are well prepared and the choices are quite good; there is something for everyone. You really can’t go wrong eating here, especially on a sunny day when you can sit outside and watch the world go by.
116 ave Ledru-Rollin
Metro: Ledru-Rollin
Tel: 33 1 47 00 34 39
Open: Mon-Fri 7am-2am, Sat and Sun 10am-9pm
12th Arrondissement
Near the Gare de Lyon, the 12th arrondissement is not generally a tourist area, but is safe and quiet.
L’Oulette $$
Very modern decor makes this restaurant a perfect fit in the now revitalized Bercy 
district. Chef Marcel Baudis has built an excellent reputation for his restaurant due to his delicious cuisine, based on the cooking of his native Quercy.
15 pl Lachambeaudie
Metro: Dugommier, Cours St-Emilion, Bercy, Daumesnil
Tel: 01 40 02 02 12
Open: Mon-Fri noon-2:15pm and 7:45 -10:15pm, Closed: Sat, Sun, Christmas day, New Year’s day, Easter Monday, May 1st and July 14th.
Miel et Paprika* $ GV
Come here for a delicious meal served with flair and attention to detail. The chef uses creativity to develop new flavors that always seem to work.Try the zucchini cake, a sure winner. This little place is a sure winner from the warm reception and service to the great food and miniscule prices!
24, rue de Cotte
Tel: 33 1 53 33 02 67
Open: Wed to Sun noon to 3pm and Thu Fri and Sat from 8pm to 10:30pm
Metro: Ledru Rollin
13th Arrondissement
The 13th Arrondissement centers on the Place d’ Italie and borders the Latin Quarter.
Le Petit Marquery $$
The Cousin brothers own and operate this restaurant with the care you might expect from people who genuinely love food and people. This restaurant is known for its game and seasonal cuisine.
9 blvd du Port-Royal
Metro: les Gobelins
Tel: 01 43 31 58 59
Open: Tue-Sat Noon-2:15pm and 7:30-10:15pm
Green Garden* $$
Green Garden is a vegetarian and completely vegan restaurant, They use only organic produce and no meat, dairy, or GMO food. On the menu, you will recognize many stir-fried and braised dishes common to Chinese menus, but they are all made with soy and not meat. And everything is delicious. What more can you ask? Non-smoking? Yep that too.
20 Rue Nationale
Metro: Porte d’Ivry
Tel: 33 1 45 82 99 54
Open: Daily from 11am to 10:30pm except Mon.
14th Arrondissement
Although largely residential, the 14th arrondissement is best known for Montparnasse (both the station and the towering skyscraper (Tour Montparnasse), for the Paris Catacombs and the Parc Montsouris. The Cité Universitaire is also found in this district traditionally known for lively cafés and restaurants around the Boulevard du Montparnasse and the rue Daguerre.
Le Bistrot du Dome $$
Great fish at reasonable prices brings patrons back again and again. Run by the Bras family who own the Famous Dome Restaurant and the Poissonerie du Dome across the street, this little bistro also offers great wine buys. If you want oysters, you’ll need to go to Le Dome.
1 rue Delambre
Metro: Vavin
Tel: 01 43 35 32 00
Open: Daily noon-2:30 and 7:30-11pm
Le Dome $$$
This historic restaurant is known as the place for the absolutely freshest fish and shellfish. No matter what you order, you can be assured of its freshness and therefore great flavor. The shrimp are fresh caught and are excellent, no matter how they are prepared.
108 blvd Montparnasse
Metro: Vavin
Tel: 01 43 35 25 81
Open: Daily noon-2:15pm and 7:30-11:30pm
La Coupole $$
Created in 1927, with all the lovely decor of that time, this brasserie, under the same ownership as Brasserie Flo, is also a fixture in the neighborhood. Busy morning through night, you’ll get the usual Brasserie fare, but well prepared. Specialties include lamb curry and smoked salmon.
102 Blvd. du Montparnasse
Tel: 0143 20 14 20
Open: Daily 7:30am-2am. Closed Dec 24
15th Arrondissement
The 15th arrondisement is the largest arrondissement of central Paris. It is a quiet, upscale neighborhood.
Benkay $$$
Located atop the Novotel Hotel, this is perhaps the best Japanese restaurant in Paris; its prices are stellar as well. Fresh, fresh sushi and lots more to tempt you, as well as great views of the Seine.
Hotel Novotel Tour Eiffel
61 Quai de Grenenne
Metro: Bir Hakim
Tel: 01 40 58 21 26
La Dinée $$ GV
Chef Christolphe Chabanal offers his wonderfully creative style of cooking at this little restaurant. It will have you coming back despite that it is a bit off the beaten path.
85 rue LeBlanc
Tel: 01 45 54 20 49
Metro: Balard
Open: Mon to Fri noon to 2:30 and 7:30pm to 10:30pm
Le Copreaux* $ GV
A charming little restaurant offering freshly made food and desserts. Nicely priced prix-fixe menus. 100% No-smoking.
15, Rue Copreaux
Metro: Volontaires
Open: Tue-Sat noon-2pm and 8-10:45pm, Closed Sun, Mon
Tel: 01 43 06 83 35
Morot-Gaudry $$$$
If you’d like a view of the Eiffel tower while you dine on fine food, you should try this lovely restaurant. You will enjoy unique dishes prepared by chef Morot-Gaudry with his excellent instinct of what to pair with what. Savor his flights of fancy and you’ll have a memorable meal.
8 rue de la Cavalerie
Tel: 01 45 67 06 85
Metro: la Motte Picquet
Open: Mon-Sat noon-2: 30 pm and 7:30-10:30pm
Erawan $$ GV
Offering some of the best Thai cuisine in Paris, Erawan is an elegant little restaurant with two small dining rooms. Whether you want your food spicy-hot or a little toned down, you will be able to find something unforgettable here. A specialty worth trying is the shrimp steamed in banana leaves.
76 rue de la Federation
Metro: la Motte-Piquet, Grenelle
Tel: 01 47 83 55 67
Open: Mon-Sat noon-3pm and 7-10: 30pm Closed: Sun and Aug
16th Arrondissement
The 16th arrondissement, located on the Right Bank hosts the famous Avenue Foch which is the widest street in Paris. This arrondissement hosts a large number of international embassies as well as the wealthy residential districts of Auteuil and Passy.
Jamin $$$
Chef Benoit Guichard, who studied under master chef Joel Rubuchon, creates dishes that are nothing short of perfection. The simple and classic style belies the care of preparation. Don’t expect fanciful fare, but do expect the best.
32 rue de Longchamp
Metro: Trocadero
Tel: 01 45 53 00 07
Open: Mon-Fri 12:30-2 and 7:30-10pm, Closed Sat, Sun and August
La Butte Chaillot $$
A modern-style restaurant, and a Guy Savoy satellite, this bistro specializes in roasted and grilled meats, in the signature style of the famed Savoy. It is all delicious and quite reasonably priced.
112 ave Kleber
Metro: Trocadero
Tel: 01 47 27 88 88
Open: Daily noon-2:30pm and 7pm-midnight
Bistro de Etoile $$
Another Guy Savoy winner. The supervising chef, William Ledeuil, has spent years alongside Savoy and has learned his craft well. This modern bistro specializes in classic bistro fare updated for the modern palate.
19 Rue Lauriston
Metro: Kleber / Charles de Gaulle-Etoile
Tel: 01 40 67 11 16
Open: Mon-Sat noon-2:30pm and 7pm-midnight, Closed Sat lunch and Sun
Brasserie de la Poste $ GV
Great brasserie food served in a well-decorated and stylish location. Each week the brasserie presents cuisine evocative of a different region of France. Wonderful desserts.
54 rue de Longchamp
Metro: Trocadero
Tel: 33 8 99 78 19 58
Open: Daily noon-3pm and 7pm-midnight
Chez Gerau $$
Chef Gerurd Roniger uses the best market finds each day to create your meal. He also welcomes you as though you were guests in his home. Fresh, fresh food, a warm welcome, a charming dining room, great prices…need we say more?
31 rue Vital
Tel: 01 45 20 33 00
Open: Mon-Fri noon-2pm and 7:30-10pm; Sat , Sun noon-2pm
Metro: La Muette
17th Arrondissement
The 17th Arrondissement is not a typical tourist area, but is in close proximity to the 8thArrondissement and therefore close to the Champs Elysees and the grand department stores of that lovely area.
La Braisiere $$$
This charming little restaurant serves wonderful French cuisine in a cozy setting. Chef Jacques Fassat has earned one Michelin star and truly deserves it. Be prepared to be impressed.
54 rue Cardinet
Metro: Malesherbes
Tel: 01 47 63 40 37
Café d’Angel $$
A trendy little bistro decorated with an angel motif??! Oh well, the food is darn good and the prices are reasonable. Try the crème brulee au chocolat for dessert.
16 rue Brey
17th Arr
Metro: Charles de Gaulle-Etoile
Tel/Fax: 01 47 54 03 33
Open: Mon-Fri noon-2:30pm and 7:30-11pm. Closed Sat, Sun and August
Amphycles $$$$
An overnight success, this fine restaurant is the creation of chef Philippe Groult. Some specialties to dream about are: morel mushroom soup and lobster risotto.
78 Ave des Ternes
Tel: 01 40 68 01 01
Open: Mon-Fri noon-2:30 and 7:15-10pm; Sat 7-10:30pm
Le Verre à Soi*
$$-$$$
Wonderful service and wonderful food. Menu changes daily reflecting the seasons. A non-smoking establishment.
11, rue d’Armaillé
Open: Mon-Fri 12 -2 :30pm and 7 :30-10 :30pm, Closed Sat and Sun
Metro: Charles de Gaulle-Etoile
Tel: 33 1 44 09 77 70
Bath’s $$
Bath’s menu specializes in the cooking of central France, the Auvergne. Limousin veal and beef from Salers are always on the menu. He also serves fish and shellfish, including lobster, scallops, monkfish and perch pike. Try the Duck ” Potee ” smoked and roasted with foie-gras. Chef Bath can be sometimes found greeting and chatting with the patrons. He has made his restaurant a place where you can enjoy an excellent meal in a warm atmosphere.
25, rue Bayen
Tel: 33 1 4574 7474
Open: Mon-Fri, Closed Sat and Sun and August.
18th Arrondissement
The eighteenth arrondissement, best known for Montmartre which was the center of the flourishing artist community from around 1907 to 1914. Picasso, Dali, Duchamp, Toulouse-Latrec, and others lived and worked here. The 18th is also the home of a thriving ethnic community in the east and a seedy red-light district along Boulevard de Clichy near Place Pigalle.
Beauvilliers $$$
The romantic décor is just the beginning at this lovely Montmartre restaurant. The food is every bit as good as you hoped it would be. This is the place for that special romantic evening.
52 rue Lamark
Metro: Lamark-Caulaincourt
Tel: 01 42 54 54 42
La Table d’Helene* $$
Chef Helene offers a gastronomical French menu prepared with only fresh in-season produce, and farm fresh meats. The reasonably priced wines are from small producers. This is a great place made even better by adhering to a no-smoking policy.
14 rue Duc
Tel: 33 1 46 06 49 68.
Open: Tue-Sat 12:30-2pm and 8-10:30pm
Metro: Jules Joffrin
19th Arrondissement
Pavillon Puebla $$$
Situated in a beautiful building built under Napoleon III, this lovely restaurant also has a wonderful terrace from which to enjoy the Catalan inspired dishes prepared by chef Verges. Try the oyster ravioli with curry and for dessert the signature crème catalane.
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
Enter on rue Bozaris
Tel: 01 42 08 92 62
Open: Tue-Sat noon-2pm and 7:30-10pm
Metro: Buttes-Chaumont
20th Arrondissement
Les Allobroges $$ GV
This restaurant is riding on the crest of the new trend of restaurants designed to make you feel that you are dining at home. Casual and elegantly comfortable, Les Allobroges has very good food at very reasonable prices. The French style food is perfect and the home made bread is a great touch.
71 rue des Grandes-Champs
Metro: Maraichers / Nation
Tel: 01 43 73 40 00
Macabane* $
This little restaurant offers modern cuisine with a fresh take on classic dishes. A non-smoking establishment.
67 rue des Orteaux
Tel: 33 1 44 64 76 09
Open: Mon- Fri noon- 2:30pm and 7pm to 11pm
