Le Chardenoux

"This newly restored Belle Epoque-era dining room in a trendy corner of the 11th arrondissement attracts well-heeled locals who know they're also about to throw down for a memorable meal. Prior to celebrity chef Cyril Lignac taking over the restaurant in 2014, it was predominantly seafood-focused; nowadays, the cocktail bar itself is so inviting that you could easily come for a cocktail and not even eat. That said, there's poké, crispy sushi, and meats like satay-marinated chicken and a very good hamburger (the bun alone is worth the calories); highlights are the mussels gratin and the avocado-covered crab served atop a crusty cracker. Don't skip dessert, because Monsieur Lignac is known for his pastries; while some may say his Baba au Rhum is the best in Paris, he also knows how to keep things simple, like with a bowl of naturally sweet strawberries topped with meringue crumbles and vanilla cream." - Lindsey Tramuta, Sara Lieberman