Victor Hugo could stride in and still recognize this place -- in his day, as now, a contender for the title of most beautiful restaurant in Paris. Originally built in 1784, it has welcomed everyone from Napoleon to Colette to Jean Cocteau. The mirrored ceiling and early-19th-century glass paintings of goddesses and muses create an air of restrained seduction. Foodies as well as the fashionable gather here to enjoy chef Guy Martin's unique blend of sophistication and rusticity, as seen in dishes such as frogs' legs with sorrel sauce, and oxtail parmentier (a kind of shepherd's pie) with truffles. The outstanding cheese trolley pays tribute to his native Savoie. For dessert, try the house specialty, palet aux noisettes (meringue cake with milk-chocolate mousse, hazelnuts, and caramel ice cream).
Visit the Travel Talk forums for help on planning your trip >>