Stunningly beautiful decor and fabulous music. Come and have just the one drink, unless you're loaded, and take in this Parisian beauty. And buy a cd on the way out. La Suite is highly recommended.

239 rue St-Honore
Paris, 75001
Telephone: (00 33 1) 4244 5000

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One of world-renowned chef Joel Robuchon's new ventures, the principle being: no reservations, small-sized dishes, bar seating on high stools, design.

His aim is to provide top-quality food without the fuss and pomp of the traditional gastronomic restaurants. The food is delicious (not if you're on a diet though, but it's worth breaking your diet for), presented impeccably and portions are small (tapas-style). The restaurant is aiming for a trendy, design look (all black and red, from the stools, bar and crockery to the clothes the staff wear), with muted lights. Diners are seated at a u-shaped bar, and so it is ideal for couples (more than that, and the conversation would be difficult).

The only issue is that they take no reservations. You can turn up from around 18.30 and they will tell you when you will have a table. Be prepared to dine late (my brother and I ate at 23.00!). As there are no nice bars to wait at, I recommend you walk about ten mins up the Boulevard St Germain and have a drink at the mythic Cafe de Flore or Les Deux Magots.

I recommend taking any dish served with the mashed potatoes (only an accompaniment, but absolutely divine - think butter with a bit of potato). And the poached egg in girolle soup was delicious.

5, rue Montalembert
01-42-22-56-56
Metro: Rue du Bac (Ligne 12)

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One of Paris' more renowned maisons de thé and always my first point of call. Head upstairs to the café for afternoon tea and patisserie, Parisian style or a light lunch where all the dishes have a definite tea influence. Don't be overwhelmed by the intimidatingly large selection of teas on offer, both in the restaurant and the shop downstairs.

There are 3 locations in Paris, my favourite is 13 rue des Grands-Augustins, Paris 6ieme Tél. : +33(0)1 40 51 82 50 www.mariagefreres.com/

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