One of the oldest, loveliest, and most popular brasseries in Paris has generally improved since brasserie maestro Jean-Paul Bucher (of the Flo group) took over. Stake out one of the tables dressed in crisp white linen under the glowing Art Nouveau glass cupola -- this part of the dining room is no-smoking -- and enjoy classic brasserie fare such as oysters, seafood-topped choucroute, or lamb fillet. The prix-fixe includes a decent half bottle of red or white wine. Métro: Bastille.