Paris

Since its audacious opening in 2009, Chef Yves Camdeborde's standing-room-only French pintxo bar, L'Avant Comptoir de la Terre, has garnered accolades for its mouth-watering dishes and natural wines. The subsequent additions of sibling wine bars, L’Avant Comptoir de la Mer and L'Avant Comptoir du Marché, have only heightened its popularity. Known for its bustling atmosphere, jostling crowds, and jolly shouts from bartenders, L'Avant Comptoir de la Terre remains a culinary haven, treating patrons to the finest produce, including Corsican charcuterie and delectable Iberian ham croquettes, paired with a selection of top-notch wines.

Le Voltaire is, perhaps, amongst the best places in the 7th arrondissement to come for a quintessentially Parisian brasserie experience. Classic French cuisine with dishes polished to perfection, woven bent-wood chairs outside, and a chic ambience with that elusive je-ne-sais-quoi factor.

Created by two brothers passionate about health, the environment, and animal rights, Le Potager de Charlotte is an intimate spot offering plant-based, gourmet cuisine made from fresh, local, seasonal, and organic produce. From the presentation to the flavours, you can really see the time and thought they have put into each dish. Le Potager de Charlotte is the kind of restaurant where you don't have to be vegan to fully enjoy the food, so make sure to pay a visit and book ahead.

Although Japanese prevails in this aptly named Parisian neighbourhood tucked between the 1st and 2nd arrondissements, there is a plethora of Asian cuisines to choose from: restaurants serving everything from Korean bibimbap to bowls of steamy Vietnamese pho pepper the area, enjoying popularity among both locals and visitors.

Pierre Gagnaire is located near Champs-Élysées Avenue, inside Hôtel Balzac, and is one of the city's most solid and appealing restaurants, ranked among the world's top 50. Expect to pay up for the lunch and dinner menu and make sure you make a reservation well in advance.

There are still local neighbourhood restaurants serving excellent food all over Paris. One of them is Allard, in the 6th arrondissement, over on the left bank of the Seine. A traditional 1930s bistro offering elevated, traditional French dishes and wines in a cosy and inviting atmosphere.

Located in the lively Quartier Latin, close to la Sorbonne, Le Balzar is a classic Parisian brasserie, which has, since 1896, been serving traditional French dishes in a gorgeous Art Nouveau interior or at terrace tables. Many of the city's famous authors have been regulars here.

When in the mood for some Middle Eastern cuisine, head to Rue des Rosiers, in the 4th arrondissement. On and around this street, you will find many establishments serving delicious Middle-Eastern and Yiddish/Eastern European specialities. Chez Hanna, King Falafel Palace, and Chez Marianne are just a few of them. L'As du Fallafel, in particular, is known for making the most famous falafel sandwich in Paris. It’s a no-frills, little eatery serving besides falafels, shawarma and kebabs, to go or to stay, plus Israeli wines.

Situated in the bohemian Montmartre district, just a stone’s throw from the Moulin Rouge, Rouge Bis is a popular brasserie offering a delightful glimpse into traditional French cuisine. The menu boasts classic French onion soup, succulent duck confit, rich beef bourguignon, ratatouille, and the famous escargots. The bustling atmosphere and top-notch service enhance the overall experience, making Rouge Bis a must-visit when in the area.

A favourite among local foodies, yam'Tcha's head Chef Adeline Grattard creates dishes that mix French tradition with an Asian flair, resulting in combinations like scallops with peppers and black soya. In keeping with the mixed feeling of the place, for refreshments, you can choose from a variety of Asian teas or French wines.

Paris has many North African restaurants and one of the best is the Moroccan Founti Agadir. Located on the left bank, it has a fine selection of good-value couscous, tajines, and pastilla dishes.

This Indian restaurant has been serving the best of North Indian gastronomy ever since 1967. The décor is authentic and stylish. On the menu, you will find tasty dishes like lamb curry, onion bhajis, and chicken tikka, as well as a few vegetarian and vegan choices.