I don’t love Bouillon Chartier, but you’re ever looking for an inexpensive French meal outside of normal dining hours, the pot au feu really is quite tasty, and there’s perhaps nowhere in Paris aside from a bouillon where two can enjoy three courses – plus wine – for less than 40 euros. But it’s not worth the queue – or the rude service.

You don’t need to cross Paris to try Le Soufflot, but the next time you’re in the area, stumble in to encounter a totally typical Parisian experience.

This neo-brasserie offers great iterations of French classics at reasonable prices in a fun, hip ambiance.

I eat in a lot of old-school (and wannabe old-school) spots, and I often find myself considering what makes a place surprising or different. For me, what makes le Cornichon so great is its authenticity. You really feel the desire to bring out the best of an old-style café with just a few touches that make it a bit more unique and a bit more delicious.

Along a vibrant shopping street at the edge of the 15th arrondissement, le Café du Commerce shows that Parisian tradition is alive and well, as flirtatious, black-vested waiters serve classics of French cuisine at tables arranged on three stories of mosaic tiled floors surrounding an airy, impressive atrium.

This Montparnasse mainstay dates back to 1927 and was a favorite of many Lost Generation writers and famous 20th century artists. Today, it still boasts major art déco vibes and surprisingly creative seafood appetizers alongside a massive seafood offering.

This brasserie dating back to the 19th century serves copious, delicious Alsatian fare and seafood seven days a week.

The appetizers are pitch perfect at this restaurant, and while I have some quibbles with the rest, the slight missteps can easily be overlooked, especially if you want to eat in this storied dining room or indeed at a table outside with a view of the Canal.