EXCLUSIVE | Paris: Where to Eat Part Two

Le Marais continued...

In Au Rendez-Vous des Amis (10, rue Sainte-Croix de la Bretonnerie, 4e; +33-1-42-72-05-99; 9-23 EUR) you will find a pleasant throwback to the Marais caf? of an earlier time period. They avoid the modern to ultra modern d?cor, reminiscent of London or New York, in favor of beautiful wood counters and chairs, with art, old photos, and stained-glass panes. A hot goat cheese salad with some red wine is as mouth-watering as people watching on the chic and beautiful St. Croix.

Le Gai Moulin (4, rue St Merri, 4e; +33-1/48-87-47-59; 20-27 EUR) is an unpretentious and cozy place. The tables are set close together so it's easy to make new friends. If you're traveling with a large group, there is a special menu deal if you reserve a day in advance. The Studio (41 rue du Temple, 4e; +33-1-42-74-10-38; www.the-studio.fr; dinner entr?es,14-24 EUR, tapas 5 EUR), set in the 17th-century courtyard of Le Marais Dance Centre, is popular for its huge terrace. Brunches and happy-hour tapas are copious and inexpensive.

Le Chant des Voyelles (2, Rue des Lombards, Paris, 4e; +33-1-42-77-77-07; 12-26 EUR) is a friendly and reasonably priced restaurant for dinner right near the Centre Pompidou. A meal consisting of appetizer, main course, and a bottle of wine for two costs around 17 EUR, and while the food may not be memorable, the people-watching from the sidewalk patio seating certainly is. The North African restaurant Au Pied de Chameau (20, Rue Quincampoix, 4e; +33-1-42-78-35-00; 13-24 EUR) is a combination of excellent food and great atmosphere: copious amounts of couscous and a fun and entertaining dinner sideshow with belly dancers.

The recently renovated 19th-century bistro Grizzli Caf? (7 rue St Martin; +33-1-48-87-77-56) has non-stop service, appetizing late lunches of salads and pastas, and a bar atmosphere. Le 101 (101 rue Vielle du Temple, 4e; 15-25), formerly Au Deux Pas du Dos, has views of Picasso sculptures from upstairs, which looks over the museum's walls.

The Curieux Spaghetti Bar (14, rue Saint Merri; +33-1/42-72-75-97; 9-24 EUR) has been for several years a chic destination near the Pompidou Center with an ultra-modern interior. A set of thoroughly confusing steam jets blow cold moistened air on anyone that ventures near the entrance. What could they possibly serve at Spaghetti Bar? You can get spaghetti in two sizes, with a cornucopia of sauces or toppings. Nobody will disappointed, especially vegetarians (you can even get "not spaghetti," but why, really?) Lunch is only 12 EUR for a starter, entr?e, and drink. The waiters, who are sexy and entertaining, wear fabulously tight clothing. The bar after dinner is a chic gay haunt.

Part One | Part Two | Part Three | Part Four | Part Five

Related Articles:
Paris: Introduction
Paris: Where to Stay
Paris: Where to Play/Meet
Paris: What to See and Do
Paris: Resources