18èME ARRONDISSEMENT. Second Empire luxury underscores this romantic restaurant's focus on creature comforts. Spectacular floral arrangements add delicacy to the rich decor, which is already opulent with gilt-framed mirrors, portraits, and a lacquered ceiling. Tables feature a king's ransom of silver, china, and crystal, but they're aptly set for Beauvillier's traditional cuisine. Lamb, seafood, and beef are treated to the chef's able hand, and diners can't feast enough on the results. Great wines are an added perk. METRO: Lamarck-Caulaincourt

8èME ARRONDISSEMENT. Third recipient of France's Michelin six-star chef award, Alain Ducasse has been hailed as a genius of haute French cuisine. Upper-scale prices accompany exquisite dishes like Bresse fowl, crawfish and cep fricassee , young roasted pigeon with sweet and sour turnip. Desserts are also worth saving room for ­ as difficult as that might be. Try an appropriate wine from a selection considered to be one of Paris's best. METRO: Alma or Marceau (line 9) or Franklin D. Roosevelt (line 1 or 9)

8èME ARRONDISSEMENT. In this elegant restaurant inside hotel Crillon, refined decor and service are standard. The food also lives up to the high-quality surroundings, thanks to an exquisite menu concocted by Chef Jean-François Piège. A fabulous brunch is available (€ 60), as well as an extraordinary dinner. Prices are relatively expensive, as befits the scene, and ties and jackets are required at dinner. Air conditioned. METRO: Concorde (lines 1, 8, 12)

8èME ARRONDISSEMENT. Located near L'Arc de Triomphe, Androuët features hundreds of cheeses from around the world. Accompany your favorite with a premium glass of wine, and enjoy the synergy of the two. A great way to get a taste of France's best, especially after a busy day of touring. METRO: Charles de Gaulle-Etoile

8èME ARRONDISSEMENT. Elegance abounds at this French fave, which entices diners with foie gras and roasted duck with black pepper or foie gras pan-fried with black radish confit. It's also an excellent place for catching glimpses of Paris's chic set. A superb wine menu distinguishes the restaurant too. METRO: Franklin D. Roosevelt (lines 1, 9), or Saint-Philippe-du-Roule (line 9)