Book these tables

It’s been fun over the past few years, watching the new restaurants influx in Paris and seeing young chefs make names for themselves. From Le Chateaubriand to Septime, Frenchie to Le Pantruche, it’s been a good era for Parisian restaurants and international foodies.

But let’s not forget the no-longer-in-the-spotlight-but-still-great addresses. The fanfare has cooled, but the food at these restaurants will put you over the moon.

La Gazetta, 29 rue de Cotte, 12eme – I first went here with friends who pre-ordered Chef Nilsson’s vegan menu. Yes, a five-course vegan meal in Paris, and it was delicious (so is the rest of the menu). Coupled with the cool Art Deco vibe and friendly service, it shone like the Cote d’Azur sun.

L’Itineraires, 5 rue de Pontoise, 5eme – This is one of those fancy-not-stuffy restaurants. Totally polished and chic, yet simple, and that extends to the food. Lovely for lunch or dinner.

Derriere, 69 rue des Gravilliers, 3eme –I’ve vacillated over the years between being charmed and annoyed with this side alley hipster hangout. But ultimately the atmosphere and slightly off-kilter food make the impossible-to-penetrate attitude worth it.

Les Papilles, 30 rue Gay-Lussac, 5eme – A wine store/unofficial rugby club/kickass restaurant, I still remember the terrain of soup that kicked off my hearty meal here. It knocked my socks off.

Le Temps au Temps, 13 rue Paul Bert, 11eme – A quiet, little gem, serving classic French food. Enough said.

Hotel Costes, 239 rue Saint Honoré, 1e – Costes is ancient when it comes to of-the-moment addresses, but the food is surprisingly delicious and the atmosphere is still hip.

Le Verre Volé, 67 rue de Lancry, 10eme – The canal’s original bastion of cool. The cooking at this once itty-bitty wine bar was so delicious, the kitchen and menu expanded. Kickass dishes to go with their eclectic assortment of wines.

Spring, 6 rue Bailleul, 1e – Long live Daniel Rose! From his succulent duck breast to his summertime lobster rolls to his lovely staff and friendly demeanor, he’s set the American standard in Paris.

Guilo Guilo, 8 rue Garreau, 18eme – Maybe if you’re in Paris for only a week, you don’t want to eat Japanese. But you do. You do want to eat at this jewel box where every one of the eight courses is a delicious, little gift.

Willi’s Wine Bar, 13 rue des Petits Champs, 1e – The original Anglo restaurant/wine bar, Willi’s defines casual comfort and simple sophistication.