Parisian restaurants are so diverse. Recently, I dined at Le Chateaubriand — a magnificent dinner, noisy and creative — and at my restaurant, Le Jules Verne, again fantastic with its views of the city, its food and its clientele. Both meals were so very, very different, from different planets. That's what I love about the city — it's small, with just
2m inhabitants, but there is such a great variety of districts, with restaurants that truly reflect their arrondissements. They manifest the character of the owners and the streets they're on, too; they're really part of the neighbourhood and it's this that gives Paris its charm.
Dining for me is all about pleasure. Food is an important 'accessory' to the experience — it's about more than this, the people, the décor, the staff, the atmosphere. Whenever I travel, I love to explore and discover different food, I'm always surprised by what I find. There are so many varied places in Paris to excite the consumer. Here are some of my all-time favourite culinary destinations in the capital. Bon appétit.
Le Jules Verne
Le Jules Verne is on the second floor of the Eiffel Tower. Its diners have the most beautiful views of Paris — from the large bay windows they get to see the magical sight of the city's sparkling lights. Great classical French dishes are reworked here. From olive oil to morel mushrooms, Le Jules Verne offers a rainbow of the best products from the country's regions. I have to give a special mention to the crispy nut and chocolate praline dessert with a hazelnut glaze. £££
Avenue Gustave Eiffel, 7th arrondissement (lejulesverne-paris.com)
Travel essentials
Way to go
British Airways flies to Paris ten times a day from London Heathrow. Flight time: about one hour 20 minutes.
Avios points
Earn up to 2,500 BA Miles when you fly Club to Paris as a member of the Executive Club. Or redeem your
BA Miles – you only need 9,000 to fly to Paris. From 16 November, BA Miles will be renamed Avios points.
Book now at ba.com
