Along with Deux Magots, one of the most epic cafes in town. Rife with literary history, its patrons could fill a who's who of Parisian history. Politicians, actors, fashion designers — everyone hangs out here alongside the welcomed tourists. Flore has been cool for so long, it's immune to trends.

The epic, cheap falafel place in the Marais. A great counterpoint to the French cuisine you'll gorge on during a visit. L'As is so popular, it can support competitors on the block who lap up the spillover. There's take-out in front and tables in the back. The harissa makes a great souvenir.
As seen in: Paris in a Pita (FATHOM) 

One of the city's best, so reservations are impossible. (Start calling two months ahead.) Chef Pascal Barbot trained with Alain Passard at L'Arpège and earned three Michelin stars and the #13 slot on San Pellegrino's World's 50 Best Restaurants for his innovative French cuisine. There's no menu; the meal is tailored to every diner's tastes.

Joël Robuchon is one of the world's best chefs. There are outposts of his bar restaurant throughout the world and one across town on the Champs Elysées, but L'Atelier really is the best version of itself at the original Paris location. The food is inventive, opulent, surprisingly light, and stunning. Limited seating, so reservations are a must.

A super local restaurant that serves French classics like duck confit and soufflé. Full of local families and couples. Anti-trendy and very delicious.

A hot newcomer to the culinary scene, with a fresh and vibrant ambiance and cuisine. Small and always crowded, it's run by rising chef Sylvain Sendra and his wife, Sandra. They have inventive yet reliable palates.