Le Coupe Chou. 9-11, rue de Lanneau, 5th arrondissement.  Métro:  Maubert-Mutualite.

Americans seem to love this place located in the Latin Quarter, and for good reason.  The fireplace and candlelit setting make it a favorite for romantics.  The legendary Salade Coup Chou is topped with bacon, poached egg and croutons.  Boeuf Bourguignon is richly served with meaty beef, carrots and onions.  The sliced duck breast is my fave, perfectly balanced with sweet pears and light potato pancakes.  Are you hungry yet? Reservations are not usually required.  Website:  www.lecoupechou.com.

Les Bouquinistes.  53, Quai des Grands Augustins, 6th arrondissement.  Métro: St-Michel.  
This left-bank Guy Savoy restaurant is in the shadow of the Notre Dame Cathedral.  It is good, trendy, and hip.  It was a perfect choice for a Valentine’s Day dinner I enjoyed here.  About €200 for two.  Website: www.lesbouquinistes.com.

A La Petite Chaise. 36 rue de Grenelle, 7th arrondissement. Métro: Rue du Bac.
Pay no attention to the claim of Le Procope as being the oldest restaurant in Paris – A La Petite Chaise rules.  The dour-faced wait staff is all business while serving up fresh French classics like foie gras, real onion soup capped with sharp gruyère cheese. Seafood plates are super-fresh but the pasta and meat dishes deserve merit too.  You know it’s authentically French when upon noticing wealthy older French gentlemen accompanied by their considerably younger “nieces”. The prix fixe menu is a good value. Website:  www.alapetitechaise.fr.

1728. 8 rue d’Anjou, 8th  arrondissement.  Métro: Concorde or Madeleine.
Satin drapes, chandeliers, candlelit tables, surrounded by 18th century fine works of art make this softly lit and subdued restaurant one of the most romantic spots in town.  The menu lists intriguing selections of Japanese/French fusion dishes. It is reasonable (i.e., the €110 tasting menu) for a restaurant of its class and elegance.  I wear a jacket and tie when dining here.  Website:  www.restaurant-1728.com