Destination

Things to see and do in Paris : Where to eat ?

Paris

10 addresses

A. Beauvilliers
52, rue Lamarck Paris 75018 • 01 42 55 05 42

Description:

18ème ARRONDISSEMENT. Second Empire luxury underscores this romantic restaurant's focus on creature comforts. Spectacular floral arrangements add delicacy to the rich decor, which is already opulent with gilt-framed mirrors, portraits, and a lacquered ceiling. Tables feature a king's ransom of silver, china, and crystal, but they're aptly set for Beauvillier's traditional cuisine. Lamb, seafood, and beef are treated to the chef's able hand, and diners can't feast enough on the results. Great wines are an added perk. METRO: Lamarck-Caulaincourt

A. Beauvilliers detail

Alain Ducasse au Plaza Athénée
25 avenue de Montaigne Hôtel Plaza Athénée, Paris 75008 • +33 1 53 67 65 00

Description:

8ème ARRONDISSEMENT. Third recipient of France's Michelin six-star chef award, Alain Ducasse has been hailed as a genius of haute French cuisine. Upper-scale prices accompany exquisite dishes like Bresse fowl, crawfish and cep fricassee , young roasted pigeon with sweet and sour turnip. Desserts are also worth saving room for ­ as difficult as that might be. Try an appropriate wine from a selection considered to be one of Paris's best. METRO: Alma or Marceau (line 9) or Franklin D. Roosevelt (line 1 or 9)

Alain Ducasse au Plaza Athénée detail

Apicius
20, rue d'Artois Paris 75008 • 01 43 80 19 66

Description:

8ème ARRONDISSEMENT. Elegance abounds at this French fave, which entices diners with foie gras and roasted duck with black pepper or foie gras pan-fried with black radish confit. It's also an excellent place for catching glimpses of Paris's chic set. A superb wine menu distinguishes the restaurant too. METRO: Franklin D. Roosevelt (lines 1, 9), or Saint-Philippe-du-Roule (line 9)

Apicius detail

Au Bon Accueil
14, rue de Monttessuy Paris 75007 • 01 47 05 46 11

Description:

7ème ARRONDISSEMENT. Its name means "good welcome," so you know that you'll be well received at Au Bon Accueil. The bistro's popularity continues to rise, and maître d'hôtel Dominique Giorza not only assists diners but is fluent in both English and Italian. Entrées depend on the season and can include dishes featuring everything from skatefish to baby pig. Desserts are sinful and impossible to pass up! METRO: Alma-Marceau (line 9)

Au Bon Accueil detail

Au Moulin a Vent "Chez Henri"
20, rue des Fossés-St-Bernard Paris 75005 • 01 43 54 99 37

Description:

5ème ARRONDISSEMENT. Au Moulin a Vent "Chez Henri" is incredibly popular, especially for its meat dishes. In fact, you can have beef prepared just about any way you could imagine. Indulge in the entrecôte de Salers (rib eye), or sample boeuf a la ficelle (a fillet quickly cooked in boiling water). You can also have a try at "typical" French dishes such as snails (escargots de Bourgogne) and frogs' legs (cuisses de grenouille). METRO: Cardinal-Lemoine (line 10) or Jussieu (line 7 or 10)

Au Moulin a Vent "Chez Henri" detail

Au Panetier
10, pl des Petits-Pères Paris 75002 • 01 42 60 90 23

Description:

2ème ARRONDISSEMENT. Highly demanded breads are baked in a wood oven built in 1890. The baker's day starts at 5am, and he concentrates on producing top-quality baked goods for eager customers. Among the favorites are the sourdough baguettes and the St-Fiacre, a special white bread. METRO: Bourse

Au Panetier detail

Benkay
61, quai de Grenelle Paris 75015 • 08 26 10 10 91

Description:

15ème ARRONDISSEMENT. This delightful Japanese restaurant offers a great view of the Seine, and the friendly, kimono-clad waitstaff gives you the feeling of being in Japan. The menu includes such exquisite items as sushi, sashimi, shabu-shabu and tonkatsu. Nippon fish dishes are definitely worth a try, as is carpaccio of white fish. Make a reservation in advance if you want a table with the view onto the river. METRO: Bir-Hakeim (line 6) or Charles Michels (line 10) or Javel (line 10)

Benkay detail

Bistrot de l'Etoile Lauriston
19, rue Lauriston Paris 75016 • 01 40 67 11 16

Description:

16ème ARRONDISSEMENT. Former restaurant of Guy Savoy, this bistro is now run by a former student. Dedicated to carrying on the high quality and fine cuisine, he creates an innovative menu that ably carries on already-established standards. Friendly service and reasonable prices are also welcomed by patrons in a South of France atmosphere. METRO: Charles de Gaulle-Etoile (line 1 or 2 or 6) or Kléber (line 6)

Bistrot de l'Etoile Lauriston detail

Blue Elephant
43, rue de la Roquette Paris 75011 • 01 47 00 42 00

Description:

11ème ARRONDISSEMENT. With its 17 chefs, Blue Elephant serves the closest thing in Paris to actual Thai food. Chicken soufflé in banana leaves and coconuts smothered in tamarind sauce especially steals the spotlight. The menu indicates how intensely spiced each dish is, and the waitstaff is eager to please. Ladies are even presented a complimentary orchid as they leave ­ Blue Elephant's way of saying "thank you." METRO: Bastille (lines 1, 5, 8) or Bréguet-Sabin (line 5)

Blue Elephant detail

Boulangerie Beauvallet Julien
6, rue de Poissy Paris 75005 • 01 43 26 94 24

Description:

5ème ARRONDISSEMENT. Mohamed Ousbib wins award after award for his baguettes and has even won the "best baguette" award several times. His wheat breads and grain breads are also delicious! Make sure you give them a try when you visit this aromatic establishment. METRO: Maubert-Mutualité

Boulangerie Beauvallet Julien detail

Best of the City

Apicius
20, rue d'Artois Paris 75008 • 01 43 80 19 66

Description:

8ème ARRONDISSEMENT. Elegance abounds at this French fave, which entices diners with foie gras and roasted duck with black pepper or foie gras pan-fried with black radish confit. It's also an excellent place for catching glimpses of Paris's chic set. A superb wine menu distinguishes the restaurant too. METRO: Franklin D. Roosevelt (lines 1, 9), or Saint-Philippe-du-Roule (line 9)

Apicius detail

Caviar Kaspia
17, pl de la Madeleine Paris 75008 • 01 42 65 33 52

Description:

8ème ARRONDISSEMENT. Caviar Kaspia offers great decor and caviars that imitate Russian varieties from the 1800s. Aficionados are especially pleased to sample from the selection, which includes sevruga, geluga and ossetra. The extensive wine list carries an appropriate vintage to accent any appetizer or meal you choose. METRO: Madeleine

Caviar Kaspia detail

Guy Savoy
18, rue Troyon Paris 75017 • 01 43 80 40 61

Description:

17ème ARRONDISSEMENT. Located near the Etoile, this celebrated restaurant serves contemporary haute cuisine in a space dressed with accents of stone, glass, leather and multi-hued woods. Oysters in aspic, sea bass with spices, and grilled pigeon are just a few of the favorites, and 800 fine wines admirably highlight the menu. After a wonderful dinner, indulge in an out-of-this-world dessert, fashioned of chocolate, fruit or some other delicacy. Your palate will thank you for the pleasure. Menu "dégustation" euro 230 ­ 285 (without wine). METRO: Charles de Gaulle-Etoile or Ternes (line 2)

Guy Savoy detail

Hiramatsu
52, rue de Longchamp Paris 75016 • 01 56 81 08 80

Description:

16ème ARRONDISSEMENT. Now that he has more spacious digs in the 16e, chef Hiroyuki Hiramatsu can deliver his carefully crafted cuisine to even more enamored fans. Intriguing menu combinations and a dedication to detail result in dishes that enliven the palate beautifully. Steamed sea bass is a classic, as is venison accompanied by chestnut gnocchi and honey-glazed squab. If you're not up to creating your own meal, prix fixe options (euro 90 ­ 130), are a wonderful option. A perfect service with 17 waiters for 19 tables. METRO: Pont Marie (line 7), Trocadéro (line 6 or 9)

Hiramatsu detail

Isami
4, quai d'Orléans Paris 75004 • 01 40 46 06 97

Description:

4ème ARRONDISSEMENT. This restaurant is so authentic that many Japanese regulars praise its cuisine! Sushi and sashimi are some of the best you'll find, and adventurous diners may want to try sea snails. Presentation is as accomplished as the food. Guests may order individual portions if they're just becoming accustomed to Japanese cuisine. Ideal for a quiet meal after a busy day. METRO: Pont-Marie (line 7)

Isami detail

Jacques Cagna
14, rue des Grands-Augustins Paris 75006 • 01 43 26 49 39

Description:

6ème ARRONDISSEMENT. This restaurant occupies a historic 17th-century townhouse near the Odéon. Flemish paintings on the walls contribute to its sophisticated atmosphere, and its cuisine boasts freshness and superb flavor. House specialties include a veal chop in ginger and lime zest and petites escargots with ground tomato, nestled in a buttery potato. METRO: Odéon/St-Michel (lines 4 or 10)

Jacques Cagna detail

Lasserre
17, av Franklin D. Roosevelt Paris 75008 • 01 43 59 53 43

Description:

8ème ARRONDISSEMENT. Eminently romantic, this restaurant pays homage to the days of dining par excellence. It still maintains the niceties of perfectly placed silver and crystal and adds in subdued lighting and soft music. Even better, when the weather allows, the roof can be pulled back to afford views of the night sky. The classic menu elaborated by Jean-Louis Nomicos (who worked with Alain Ducasse), revels in slightly shaken tradition, including duck a l'orange, poached fish, and a salad rich with truffles. An amazing wine list is a welcome perk. METRO: Franklin D. Roosevelt (lines 1, 9)

Lasserre detail

Michel Rostang
20, rue Rennequin Paris 75017 • 01 47 63 40 77

Description:

17ème ARRONDISSEMENT. It's rare to find a family-owned restaurant with longevity, but Michel Rostang is one of them. Daughter Caroline Rostang (official hostess) shows the same passion for fine French cuisine as did her parents, Marie-Claude and Michel. Caroline proudly informs diners of menu items created by her grandfather, and truffles are introduced into dishes in creative, sumptuous ways. Tiny lobsters prepared on a branch of thyme evoke subtle flavor, and desserts include hot bitter chocolate mousse. The wine list is primarily French, although a few California varieties are available. You can even visit the air conditioned cellar with Sommelier Alain Ronzatti. The kitchen can be seen through a viewing bay, if you want to glimpse the chef's secrets. METRO: Ternes (line 2)

Michel Rostang detail

Pierre Gagnaire
6, rue Balzac Hôtel Balzac, Paris 75008 • 01 58 36 12 50

Description:

8ème ARRONDISSEMENT. One of the most sought-after tables of the capital, this delightful, haute-cuisine restaurant promises culinary masterpieces fashioned by renowned chef Pierre Gagnaire. Try a sensational duck entree or sea bass and clams. Make sure to save room for one of the tantalizing desserts, as well. METRO: George V (line 1)

Pierre Gagnaire detail

Taillevent
15, rue Lamennais Paris 75008 • 01 44 95 15 01

Description:

8ème ARRONDISSEMENT. Top-rated for food, service and popularity, Taillevent has been a reckoning force in Parisian dining for more than a half-century. The small, elegant townhouse boasts an accomplished kitchen, incredible seasonal specialties, and an extensive, award-winning wine list. Possibilities include braised beef with cumin-fragranced carrots and pistachio-crusted sea bass with fennel sauce. Dessert pastries maintain their own, well-deserved reputation for excellence. METRO: Georges V (line 1) or Charles-de-Gaulle-Etoile (line 1, 2 or 6)

Taillevent detail

Asian

Benkay
61, quai de Grenelle Paris 75015 • 08 26 10 10 91

Description:

15ème ARRONDISSEMENT. This delightful Japanese restaurant offers a great view of the Seine, and the friendly, kimono-clad waitstaff gives you the feeling of being in Japan. The menu includes such exquisite items as sushi, sashimi, shabu-shabu and tonkatsu. Nippon fish dishes are definitely worth a try, as is carpaccio of white fish. Make a reservation in advance if you want a table with the view onto the river. METRO: Bir-Hakeim (line 6) or Charles Michels (line 10) or Javel (line 10)

Benkay detail

Blue Elephant
43, rue de la Roquette Paris 75011 • 01 47 00 42 00

Description:

11ème ARRONDISSEMENT. With its 17 chefs, Blue Elephant serves the closest thing in Paris to actual Thai food. Chicken soufflé in banana leaves and coconuts smothered in tamarind sauce especially steals the spotlight. The menu indicates how intensely spiced each dish is, and the waitstaff is eager to please. Ladies are even presented a complimentary orchid as they leave ­ Blue Elephant's way of saying "thank you." METRO: Bastille (lines 1, 5, 8) or Bréguet-Sabin (line 5)

Blue Elephant detail

Chen Soleil d'Est
15, rue du Théâtre Paris 75015 • 01 45 79 34 34

Description:

Bring a bit of China to Paris with a visit to this delicious restaurant. Mr. Chen is a superb chef who will certainly please you with his fresh ingredients and artful cooking. Try Peking duck for a tasty treat, or give salt-and-pepper frog legs a try. Finish with cold/hot green apple dessert, and leave with a smile on your face! METRO: Charles-Michels (line 10)

Chen Soleil d'Est detail

Chez Vong
10, rue de la Grande Truanderie Paris 75001 • 01 40 26 09 36

Description:

1er ARRONDISSEMENT. The interior of Chez Vong is composed of pottery, lanterns and bamboo screens surrounding a giant green pagoda ­ all in all, a comfortable, relaxing atmosphere. Although your check can grow quickly if you choose too many of the great offerings, the food is delicious. Rock lobster with ginger is worth a try, as is lacquered squab. METRO: Etienne Marcel or Les Halles (line 4)

Chez Vong detail

Isami
4, quai d'Orléans Paris 75004 • 01 40 46 06 97

Description:

4ème ARRONDISSEMENT. This restaurant is so authentic that many Japanese regulars praise its cuisine! Sushi and sashimi are some of the best you'll find, and adventurous diners may want to try sea snails. Presentation is as accomplished as the food. Guests may order individual portions if they're just becoming accustomed to Japanese cuisine. Ideal for a quiet meal after a busy day. METRO: Pont-Marie (line 7)

Isami detail

Issé
45 Rue de Richelieu Paris 75001 • 01 42 96 26 60

Description:

1er ARRONDISSEMENT. Considered one of Paris's best Japanese restaurants, this much-favored venue plies patrons with fresh, amazing sushi. It and sashimi, in fact, often draw the largest crowds. If that's not your preference, tempura dishes make ideal choices as well. You can opt for the "tapas" size to taste different specialities. A soothing interior contributes to the appealing experience. METRO: Palais Royal or Musée du Louvre (lines 1, 7)

Issé detail

Kinugawa
9, rue du Mont Thabor Paris 75001 • 01 42 60 65 07

Description:

1er ARRONDISSEMENT. This restaurant is known for having some of Paris's best Japanese cuisine. The sushi bar is also regarded as one of the most popular in town. Definitely worth a try! Other wonderful dishes include beef with ginger and teriyaki salmon. The relaxed atmosphere is ideal if you simply want to sit back and enjoy a delicious Japanese meal! METRO: Tuileries (line 1)

Kinugawa detail

Passy Mandarin
6, rue Bois-le-Vent Paris 75016 • 01 42 88 12 18

Description:

16ème ARRONDISSEMENT. Broad windows, large-scale artwork, and Chinese fretwork chairs set the scene at this romantic restaurant. The well-executed cuisine is enviable, and Peking duck ­ with its dark, sleek skin ­ is an exquisite treat. Black-pepper beef filet, grilled chicken and skewered shrimp also take their place on the menu. Especially favored by folks in the neighborhood, Passy Mandarin takes delight in converting first-time diners into life-long fans. METRO: La Muette (line 9)

Passy Mandarin detail

Tang
125, rue de la Tour Paris 75016 • 01 45 04 35 35

Description:

16ème ARRONDISSEMENT. This Chinese restaurant offers only the best in Chinese cuisine. The friendly waitstaff proves delightful, and the interior is reminiscent of Asia, even in the midst of Paris! Prices may be a little expensive, but the food is absolutely worth it. Try the hors d'oeuvres plate for two. METRO: Rue de la Pompe (line 9)

Tang detail

Bistro Nouvelle

Au Bon Accueil
14, rue de Monttessuy Paris 75007 • 01 47 05 46 11

Description:

7ème ARRONDISSEMENT. Its name means "good welcome," so you know that you'll be well received at Au Bon Accueil. The bistro's popularity continues to rise, and maître d'hôtel Dominique Giorza not only assists diners but is fluent in both English and Italian. Entrées depend on the season and can include dishes featuring everything from skatefish to baby pig. Desserts are sinful and impossible to pass up! METRO: Alma-Marceau (line 9)

Au Bon Accueil detail

Bistrot de l'Etoile Lauriston
19, rue Lauriston Paris 75016 • 01 40 67 11 16

Description:

16ème ARRONDISSEMENT. Former restaurant of Guy Savoy, this bistro is now run by a former student. Dedicated to carrying on the high quality and fine cuisine, he creates an innovative menu that ably carries on already-established standards. Friendly service and reasonable prices are also welcomed by patrons in a South of France atmosphere. METRO: Charles de Gaulle-Etoile (line 1 or 2 or 6) or Kléber (line 6)

Bistrot de l'Etoile Lauriston detail

L'Astrance
4, rue Beethoven Paris 75016 • 01 40 50 84 40

Description:

16ème ARRONDISSEMENT. Since it burst onto Paris's dining scene, this fabulous restaurant has met with nothing but praise, thanks to chef Pascal Barbot who got his first Michelin star straight away. Its accomplished owners bring an assurance of service and cuisine that's rarely matched. Premium ingredients are allowed to bask in their own glory, massaged into unexpected complexity and rich flavor. A "ravioli" of avocado-wrapped crab never fails to elicit raves, and roast guinea fowl, delectable mussels, squab and all the rest are a revelation of modern French cuisine. METRO: Passy (line 6)

L'Astrance detail

L'Avant Goût
26, rue Bobillot Paris 75013 • 01 53 80 24 00

Description:

13ème ARRONDISSEMENT. A very popular place, both intimate and lively, in a cozy red and yellow interior design. You won't find this bistro in the middle of the bustling city, but you will find exquisite food at reasonable prices. Chef Chistophe Beaufront adds his own creative takes to French fare, and the menu is one you won't soon forget! Try sea bass with creamy celery root and almonds for a delicious example of his abilities. Local speciality: pork pot-au-feu. Desserts are homemade, so don't pass them up! METRO: Place d'Italie (line 2, 5, 6 or 7)

L'Avant Goût detail

L'Epi Dupin
11, rue Dupin Paris 75006 • 01 42 22 64 56

Description:

6ème ARRONDISSEMENT. This place is not known for interior design, but "cuisine", yes, definitively! At lunchtime, you're likely to find a bustling crowd at L'Epi Dupin, whereas evenings are somewhat quieter. Whatever time of day you attend, the rustic bistro is always packed with eager customers awaiting another extraordinary meal from chef François Pasteau. He's especially well-known for his filet of lamb with ratatouille and citrus and chestnut Lillet chaud-froid. With a prix fixe menu, you can't go wrong! METRO: Sèvres-Babylone (lines 10 or 12)

L'Epi Dupin detail

La Régalade
49, av Jean Moulin Paris 75014 • 01 45 45 68 58

Description:

14ème ARRONDISSEMENT. Chef Yves Camdeborde draws crowds to this restaurant. Forget about personal space ­ the place is so popular that you may find yourself sitting within inches of your neighbor. However, the food will take your mind off the crowds! People flock here to try duck hearts with oyster mushrooms or hachis parmentier (shepherd's pie) with rabbit. METRO: Alésia (line 4)

La Régalade detail

Le Violon D'Ingres
135, rue Saint-Dominique Paris 75007 • 01 45 55 15 05

Description:

7ème ARRONDISSEMENT. This bistro is elegant in all respects. The simple decor evokes sophistication but maintains a comfortable feel. Famous chef Christian Constant devotes himself to his bistro and satisfies customers beyond measure. Be sure to try cream of pumpkin soup with sheep cheese or guinea fowl with turnip choucroute. METRO: Ecole-Militaire (line 8)

Le Violon D'Ingres detail

French

A. Beauvilliers
52, rue Lamarck Paris 75018 • 01 42 55 05 42

Description:

18ème ARRONDISSEMENT. Second Empire luxury underscores this romantic restaurant's focus on creature comforts. Spectacular floral arrangements add delicacy to the rich decor, which is already opulent with gilt-framed mirrors, portraits, and a lacquered ceiling. Tables feature a king's ransom of silver, china, and crystal, but they're aptly set for Beauvillier's traditional cuisine. Lamb, seafood, and beef are treated to the chef's able hand, and diners can't feast enough on the results. Great wines are an added perk. METRO: Lamarck-Caulaincourt

A. Beauvilliers detail

Apicius
20, rue d'Artois Paris 75008 • 01 43 80 19 66

Description:

8ème ARRONDISSEMENT. Elegance abounds at this French fave, which entices diners with foie gras and roasted duck with black pepper or foie gras pan-fried with black radish confit. It's also an excellent place for catching glimpses of Paris's chic set. A superb wine menu distinguishes the restaurant too. METRO: Franklin D. Roosevelt (lines 1, 9), or Saint-Philippe-du-Roule (line 9)

Apicius detail

C'est Mon Plaisir
8, rue Falguière Paris 75015 • 01 42 73 07 02

Description:

This discrete dining spot offers superior cuisine, seafood dishes in particular, and wines. Several members of the wait staff speak English, and diners may expect excellent service in an intimate setting. The restaurant's interior reflects the personal touch invested in every detail, such as the locally handcrafted pottery.

C'est Mon Plaisir detail

Elysées Du Vernet
25, rue Vernet Hôtel Vernet, Paris 75008 • 01 44 31 98 98

Description:

8ème ARRONDISSEMENT. Elysées Du Vernet boasts a strong reputation for its French cuisine. It's also a terrific special-occasion restaurant, given its fantastic food and lofty prices. However, the restaurant features an extensive selection of wines and cheeses, so you can sample a little of France's best in classy surroundings. If you're watching the euros, a prix fixe menu also offers more affordable options. METRO: Charles de Gaulle-Etoile/George V

Elysées Du Vernet detail

La Comtesse du Barry
13, bd Haussmann Paris 75009 • 01 47 70 21 01

Description:

9ème ARRONDISSEMENT. Many French treats render visitors speechless with delight at this restaurant. They often find themselves tempted by galantines, terrines, confits, pates, foie gras and cassoulets. Plus, there's a great selection of stews and soups too.

La Comtesse du Barry detail

Le Bellecour
22, rue Surcouf Paris 75007 • 01 45 51 46 93

Description:

7ème ARRONDISSEMENT. Drawing heavily on Lyonnaise cuisine, this cozy restaurant serves fabulous, inventive dishes at relatively reasonable prices. The entire menu changes three times per year and offers such mouth-watering delicacies as buckwheat and crab cakes and roast lamb laced with chablis. A respectable selection of wines is available to complement any dinner choice. METRO: Invalides

Le Bellecour detail

Le Grand Véfour
17, rue Beaujolais Paris 75001 • 01 42 96 56 27

Description:

1er ARRONDISSEMENT. Under the arches of Palais Royal, chef Guy Martin creates culinary alchemy in a restaurant described as one of Paris's most beautiful; mirrors, gilts and fresco paintings contributed to the election of this place as an official Historical Monument. Historically, it's been a favorite with the French elite ­ imagine Napoleon or Jean Cocteau at dinner. Delight in foie gras-stuffed ravioli or poached oysters in beetroot sauce. Exquisite wines accompany dinners, and the cheese tray features varieties from Chef Martin's native Savoie. METRO: Palais Royal-Musée du Louvre (lines 1, 7) or Bourse (line 3)

Le Grand Véfour detail

Le Montparnasse 25
19, rue du Commandant René Mouchotte Paris 75014 • 01 44 36 44 25

Description:

14ème ARRONDISSEMENT. Chef Jean-Yves Guého made Le Montparnasse famous during his reign as chef. Now, Chef Christian Moine follows in his footsteps, continuing the tradition of bringing traditional French classics to the public. Diners can sample more than 150 different French cheeses and even add in a bit of caviar to up the ante on taste. METRO: Montparnasse-Bienvenue

Le Montparnasse 25 detail

Michel Rostang
20, rue Rennequin Paris 75017 • 01 47 63 40 77

Description:

17ème ARRONDISSEMENT. It's rare to find a family-owned restaurant with longevity, but Michel Rostang is one of them. Daughter Caroline Rostang (official hostess) shows the same passion for fine French cuisine as did her parents, Marie-Claude and Michel. Caroline proudly informs diners of menu items created by her grandfather, and truffles are introduced into dishes in creative, sumptuous ways. Tiny lobsters prepared on a branch of thyme evoke subtle flavor, and desserts include hot bitter chocolate mousse. The wine list is primarily French, although a few California varieties are available. You can even visit the air conditioned cellar with Sommelier Alain Ronzatti. The kitchen can be seen through a viewing bay, if you want to glimpse the chef's secrets. METRO: Ternes (line 2)

Michel Rostang detail

Taillevent
15, rue Lamennais Paris 75008 • 01 44 95 15 01

Description:

8ème ARRONDISSEMENT. Top-rated for food, service and popularity, Taillevent has been a reckoning force in Parisian dining for more than a half-century. The small, elegant townhouse boasts an accomplished kitchen, incredible seasonal specialties, and an extensive, award-winning wine list. Possibilities include braised beef with cumin-fragranced carrots and pistachio-crusted sea bass with fennel sauce. Dessert pastries maintain their own, well-deserved reputation for excellence. METRO: Georges V (line 1) or Charles-de-Gaulle-Etoile (line 1, 2 or 6)

Taillevent detail

Italian

Chez Vincent
5, rue du Tunnel Paris 75019 • 01 42 02 22 45

Description:

19ème ARRONDISSEMENT. Small, cozy Chez Vincent is sparsely decorated, but it has much to offer in lieu of decoration. The friendly waitstaff go out of their way to make you feel welcome, and the food is deliciously satisfying! The restaurant is run by a small group of Italians who aim to please. Reservations are strongly recommended ­ otherwise, you will wait outside and eat mini pizzas dispersed by the waiters to encourage patience from the crowds. METRO: Botzaris (line 7 bis); or Jourdain or Pyrénées (line 11)

Chez Vincent detail

Fellini
47, rue de l'Arbre Sec Paris 75001 • 01 42 60 90 66

Description:

1er ARRONDISSEMENT. In a cinematic atmosphere with film posters all over the place, Fellini delivers consistently good Italian fare, and it does so without charging offputtingly high prices. Popular dishes include risotto with lobster and pasta with scallops. If you're less adventurous, traditional spaghetti is also satisfying. Whatever your choice, Fellini's chefs really know Italian cuisine! METRO: Louvre-Rivoli (line 1)

Fellini detail

I Golosi
6, rue de la Grange-Batelière Paris 75009 • 01 48 24 18 63

Description:

9ème ARRONDISSEMENT. No pizzas here...this Italian restaurant boasts a delicious menu, which changes every week to offer a wide variety of exquisite Italian dishes. Diners are also greeted by friendly servers when they dine at I Golosi, a feature which goes a long way towards making meals here a pleasure. One of the best Italian wine menus of Paris. Join them in embracing their name: "i golosi" means "the ones fond of good food." A boutique selling pastas, olive oils and other products is also available. METRO: Richelieu-Drouot (line 8 or 9)

I Golosi detail

Il Cortile
37, rue Cambon Hôtel Castille, Paris 75001 • 44-58-45-67

Description:

1er ARRONDISSEMENT. Blessed by a pleasant courtyard, marble floors, and well-designed tilework, this hotel restaurant delivers a little slice of northern Italy in the midst of Paris's busy financial district. The cuisine, filtered through a talented French chef, is crafted with a sure hand. Lamb, veal, and seafood depend on top ingredients, and resultant dishes showcase their quality. Italian wines maintain the theme in style. METRO: Concorde, Madeleine

Il Cortile detail

L'Osteria
10, rue de Sévigné Paris 75004 • 01 42 71 37 08

Description:

4ème ARRONDISSEMENT. Reputed to have some of Paris's finest Italian cuisine, L'Osteria brings a bit of Italy to France. The interior isn't richly sumptuous, but the food makes up for it. Tasty gnocchi with white truffles is a decadent treat, and spaghetti is always scrumptious. Plus, what would an Italian meal be without fabulous tiramisu? Luckily, you won't have to find out. METRO: St-Paul (line 1)

L'Osteria detail

La Romantica
73, bd Jean Jaurès Clichy 92110 • 01 47 37 29 71

Description:

CLICHY. This charming Italian restaurant is the domain of amiable chef Claudio Puglia, who will not only prepare incredible food but tell you a good story to boot. The romantic setting boasts a warm fireplace for cool evenings, and an outside terrace is available for warm spring days. Try ravioli and ricotta in veal juice or risotto with beef marrow and saffron with Milanese flair! A place to eat well, it is also the place to go for a romantic tête-à-tête. METRO: Mairie-de-Clichy (line 13)

La Romantica detail

Le Grand Venise
171, rue de la Convention Paris 75015 • 01 45 32 49 71

Description:

15ème ARRONDISSEMENT. You're guaranteed not to leave hungry when you dine at Le Grand Venise, thanks to the restaurant's grand portions of fine Italian food. Fresh flowers adorn the interior, creating a charming, comfortable environment. Service is friendly and efficient, and prices are in synch with the quantity of food served. METRO: Convention (line 12)

Le Grand Venise detail

Sormani
4, rue du Général Lanrezac Paris 75017 • 01 43 80 13 91

Description:

17ème ARRONDISSEMENT. Sormani's decor recalls an ancient Italian city, and the food is an exquisite complement. The chef adds his own special touches, creating extraordinary dishes like goat cheese ravioli with black truffles, pasta with white truffles, mushrooms with bacon and garlic bread, and Neapolitan osso bucco. The bill may be hefty, but the fine quality of the meal will help you shoulder the expense. Chef Jean-Pascal Fayet retired, but he has certainly chosen a premium successor. METRO: Charles de Gaulle-Etoile (lines 1, 2, 6 or RER A)

Sormani detail

Seafood

Goumard
9, rue Duphot Paris 75001 • 01 42 60 36 07

Description:

1er ARRONDISSEMENT. Offering impeccable seafood since 1872, this reputable restaurant has as its motto "Everything that comes from the sea." In fact, the owner buys straight from the dock's local fishermen. Specialties include grilled Breton lobster and scallop carpaccio with oysters. METRO: Madeleine

Goumard detail

La Cagouille
10, pl Constantin Brancusi Paris 75014 • 01 43 22 09 01

Description:

14ème ARRONDISSEMENT. Much to the delight of patrons, chef Gérard Allamandou doesn't feel compelled to mask fresh seafood in elaborate sauces or so much fussy preparation. Instead, he lets the Montparnasse restaurant's just-caught bounty speak for itself. A hint of bacon, a touch of oil, and everything's just as it should be. A great wine list also helps coax out the flavors of fish and shellfish. METRO: Gaîté (line 13)

La Cagouille detail

La Luna
69, rue du Rocher Paris 75008 • 01 42 93 77 61

Description:

8ème ARRONDISSEMENT. Something of a hidden gem, this restaurant delights in serving patrons the best and freshest seafood available. In fact, the day's menu depends on what was unloaded at the fish market that very morning. No matter what the kitchen prepares or that you end up choosing, you're assured that the integrity of fish and shellfish remains a prominent culinary goal. Preparations are simple and flavorful, and prices reflect the careful attention. METRO: Villiers

La Luna detail

La Maree
1, rue Daru Paris 75008 • 01 43 80 20 00

Description:

8ème ARRONDISSEMENT. The only embellishments needed in this spare dining room are fabulous 17th-century Flemish tapestries. The food stands out even then, and fresh seafood is more often than not dressed with one of the restaurant's glorious sauces. Diners can also choose from a seemingly infinite selection of wines (more than 900), especially whites. METRO: Ternes

La Maree detail

Le Divellec
107, rue de l'Université Paris 75007 • 01 45 51 91 96

Description:

7ème ARRONDISSEMENT. Divellec promises much to love, including exceptionally fresh seafood, yacht-like decor, and a celebrated wine cellar. Popular specials include lobster with pan-fried duck foie gras and iced cognac soufflé. METRO: Invalides

Le Divellec detail

Le Dôme
108, bd du Montparnasse Paris 75014 • 01 43 35 25 81

Description:

14ème ARRONDISSEMENT. Once frequented by Brancusi and Trotsky, this restaurant now finds favor with folks who adore fresh seafood. A host of Left Bankers, artsy types, politicians, and intellectuals make time to indulge in select oysters, bouillabaisse (rumored to be the city's best), and a fresh catch of the day that ranks highly among regulars. Beautifully decorated, Le Dôme pulls in a slightly older, more sophisticated crowd, thanks to well-paced service and pricey options. METRO: Vavin (line 4) or Edgar Quinet (line 6)

Le Dôme detail

Le Duc
243, bd Raspail Paris 75014 • 01 43 20 96 30

Description:

14ème ARRONDISSEMENT. You'll undoubtedly be rubbing elbows with other seafood devotees in this restaurant, which is reminiscent of an old ­ albeit tasteful ­ wooden boat. Fresh, simple preparations distinguish the food, and diners can't say enough good things about the variety of fish and shellfish dishes. METRO: Raspail

Le Duc detail

Maison Prunier
16, av Victor Hugo Paris 75016 • 01 44 17 35 85

Description:

16ème ARRONDISSEMENT. At this 70+-year-old restaurant, diners choose between a marbled oyster bar on the main level and a more luxurious upstairs dining room. Art Deco mosaics and burled wood accents leave patrons awestruck. Just as striking are the innovative dishes, which include grilled turbot with sauce béarnaise and shellfish in cream and mussel broth. While you're there, indulge in a terrific glass of wine, and enjoy some top-notch caviar. METRO: Charles de Gaulle-Etoile

Maison Prunier detail

Marius
82, bd Murat Paris 75016 • 01 46 51 67 80

Description:

16ème ARRONDISSEMENT. A bit off the beaten path of Paris's high-visibility dining scene, this restaurant courts a strong following of locals, who appreciate the quiet neighborhood and the kitchen's talent with seafood. As a result, the place stays busy, and folks tuck into classic grilled sardines with herbs, a rich bouillabaisse, the day's fresh catch, and even unusual offerings like skate. Since it's without pretense, the place is as good for a daily dinner as for a special night out. METRO: Porte de St-Cloud

Marius detail

Port Alma
10, av de New York Paris 75016 • 01 47 23 75 11

Description:

16ème ARRONDISSEMENT. Madame and Monsieur Canal welcome diners to their charming, elegant restaurant, which sits along the water. Even better, an excellent view of the Eiffel Tower greets patrons lucky enough to gain a window table. The cuisine reflects Monsieur Canal's homeplace, the region where France and Spain come together, both in territory and in cuisine. Specialties include turbot with thyme and sea bass in crusted salt with fennel.

Port Alma detail