First of all, the location, nestling in the heart of the majestic Grand Palais. Then there's the decor, designed by Gilles & Boissier in a luminous, ultra-chic loft style with huge ceilings, imposing contemporary light fittings and walls covered with shelves housing a fine collection of plaster statuettes.
The cuisine is the work of Eric Fréchon, who has appointed Stéphane d'Aboville, one of his most loyal disciples, to work here. The menu, which is both tasty and reasonably priced, is inspired by Italy (the pancake clafoutis is perfect, as is the vitello tonnato with capers and parmesan), but with a few Anglo-Saxon twists: a foie gras burger with truffle juice and a remarkable fish & chips with tartar sauce. Special mention should be made of the outstanding wines, such as the Morgon from Lapierre, which is not to be missed.
Lunch menu at €28.
Menu around €40.
Grand Palais, av Winston Churchill.
Paris VIIIe.
Tel.: 01 42 56 42 42
