Patisserie Viennoise. 8, rue d l’Ecole de Medecine. Metro: Odeon.
What a classic pastry shop! I go out of my way to have breakfast here. You can sit down inside if you wish. The world’s 2nd best hot chocolate. Closed weekends.
Bistrot d’Henri, 16, rue Princesse, 6th. Metro: Mabillon or St Germain des Pres or St. Sulpice
This is a very popular and friendly spot. The tables are close, but that’s fine because everyone there always seems to be social and willing to share their travel stories. The food is very good. My lunch (for 2) costs 54 euro with wine. Lunch cost me 54 euros for two here in February.
For a variety of inexpensive restaurants with good food and service, go to rue Grégoire de Tours between rue Buci and Boulevard St. Germain and get off the Odeon metro stop in the 6th, . My particular favorite is Au Beaujolais at 9 rue Grégoire de Tours. It is a good value for your euro and you’ll have fun, too. Make sure you see Hakim and mention my name.
Le Pré Verre. 8, rue Thenard, 5th. Metro: Maubert-Mutualite.
You know it has to be good if the Parisians line up to get into the place. Near the Cluny, across the street from the Hotel du College de France. They have a prix fixe dinner for about 35 euro each that includes wine. Lunch costs half of that. Make a reservation a day or two beforehand. This is the best value in Paris. Check out the Hotel du College du France across the street for you next stay in Paris. http://www.lepreverre.com/
Le Coupe Chou. 9-11, rue de Lanneau, 5th. Metro: Maubert-Mutualite.
Americans seem to love this place located in the Latin Quarter. It’s romantic, it’s very French, it’s reasonable, and the food is good. Usually you don’t need a reservation. You’ll pay about 100 euro for two. http://www.lecoupechou.com/
Café Constant. 139, rue St. Dominique, 7th. Metro: Ecole Militaire. Casual. Great food. Get the “flotante” for dessert. Near Champs du Mars and Rue Cler. 110 euro for two. http://www.leviolondingres.com/eng_news.htm