The crème de la crème of France’s most sought after eateries
It s the eaterie where Carrie met her beau s ex in the final double episode of Sex and the City and if that isn t reason enough to drop by, perhaps the unique Paris-meets-Tokyo décor, with orchid adornments and Louis XV armchairs is. The views alone attract diners: be sure to book a table on the second floor where you can gaze through the glass rooftop at the Parisian scene below.
Kong, 1 rue du Pont Neuf
http://www.kong.fr/
Gaya, 44 rue du bac
Fish fanatics should make a beeline for this über-cool diner with its hugely varied menu including oysters with foie gras and sole served four different ways (did you even know that was possible?) With a stylish, minimalist interior, Gaya is a magnet for the young, chic Parisian set, so if you can t book a table, be sure to drop by for a glass of wine at the bar the cellar offerings are extensive.
http://www.marieclaire.co.uk/lifestyle/restaurant/1.html
Gaya, 44 rue du bac
Fish fanatics should make a beeline for this über-cool diner with its hugely varied menu including oysters with foie gras and sole served four different ways (did you even know that was possible?) With a stylish, minimalist interior, Gaya is a magnet for the young, chic Parisian set, so if you can t book a table, be sure to drop by for a glass of wine at the bar the cellar offerings are extensive.
http://www.marieclaire.co.uk/lifestyle/restaurant/1.html
L'Atelier de Joel Robuchon
Monsieur Robuchon already has world domination with restaurants spanning the globe from Las Vegas to Tokyo. In the heart of Paris lies his romantic, intimate eatery, with its mellow lighting and dark wood interior. Featuring all the ingredients that his sister diner, L Atelier, offers, here dishes are available in small or large portions, offering the freshest of foods, tasting menus and a wine menu to rival any other Paris eating emporium.
http://www.joel-robuchon.com/
Angelina, 226 rue de Rivoli
One can t possibly visit the capital without indulging your sweet tooth and sampling the scrumptious desserts on offer at Angelina. Served in the faded grandeur of a belle époque salon a stone s throw from the Louvre, prepare your taste buds for the hot chocolate African speciality a velvety thick concoction that requires manners be left at the door and drunk with a spoon. Or, tuck into the Mont Blanc dessert, a meringue ball covered in whipped cream and sweet chestnut. Just be sure to book in a long stroll afterwards to work off your guilty pleasure treat!
http://www.groupe-bertrand.com/angelina.php
Stella Maris, 4, rue Arsène Houssaye
While the décor alone doesn t make a restaurant, beautiful surroundings undoubtedly add a certain je ne sais quoi to an establishment and this Art Deco style venue has instant appeal. With an experimental take on cuisine, chef Tateru Yoshino s tantalising dishes include scallops with caramel sauce, cabbage-truffle terrine, and langoustines in a cappuccino of green lentils.
http://www.marieclaire.co.uk/lifestyle/restaurant/1.html
Le Restaurant at L Hotel, 13 rue des Beaux-Arts
For anyone who s had the pleasure of a Cowley Manor visit near Oxford, they ll understand that the Brit takeover of Le Restaurant, with talented chef Philippe Bélisse at the helm, makes Le Restaurant a not-to-be-missed venue. Choose from a short seasonal menu with dishes from pan-fried tuna to suckling pig, or dig into a 74E four-course set menu with highlights including wild Breton crab stuffed with fennel. Is your mouth watering yet?
http://www.l-hotel.com/
A La Biche au Bois, 45 av Ledru-Rollin (budget)
Being in the know about budget dining on quality food is usually a local s prerogative, so you ll thank us for the inclusion of this gem a lively bistro with generous portions and a credit crunch-friendly set menu of 24E 90. Focusing on traditional French fodder, mains range from wild duck in blackcurrant sauce to wild venison stew, followed by delectable homemade tarts with glazed fresh fruits
http://www.marieclaire.co.uk/lifestyle/restaurant/1.html
Le Grand Vefour, 17 Rue de Beaujolais
Enjoying the accolade of one of the oldest restaurants in Paris, this grand setting with its opulent gold-gilted panelling, velvet-backed bank seats and beautiful twinkly chandeliers, is the perfect setting for an old-school slice of grand Parisian dining. Used for the scene in Something s Got to Give where Diane Keaton ran into Jack Nickelson, the hugely romantic setting will wow any potential date, but remember to stock your wallet the menu is by no means cheap.
http://www.grand-vefour.com/
Apollo, 3 place Denfert-Rochereau
With the original setting of the old RER station building built in 1846 as its backdrop, Apollo is unique in every way. From its cool 1970s retro styling (think white leatherette and coloured plastic) to its à la Carte menu (at a reasonable price), stop by with friends for a café-style meal out.
http://restaurant-apollo.com/
Ave Maria, 1 rue Jacquard
While some eateries lose out on food quality when they aim high on the décor details, Ave Maria succeeds in packing a punch across the board, with great cuisine and a super-cool interior. A kitsch feel with chinoiserie parasols and myriad Hindu gods, combined with soulful, funky beats, you ll spy an eclectic mix of diners, devouring exotic dishes, combining lentils, spices and meats.
http://www.marieclaire.co.uk/lifestyle/restaurant/1.html