On The Traveling Professor's small group tours to Paris, we like to enjoy the Paris dining scene, but understand that a week in Paris eating at high-end restaurants can be a budget buster.  So we choose carefully where to spend our food euros to have an enjoyable and good meal, without spending an exorbitant amount of money.  So, whether dining on your own, or traveling with The Professor on one of his small group tours to Paris, here are some suggestions for dining spots.

Musee d'Orsay Restaurant:  My favorite place for lunch in Paris.  It affords a convenient break while visiting the best Impressionist art museum in Paris. The space is open, airy and well-lit just steps away from the greatest art in the world.  The meal is a great deal for 22 euro for a starter and a main, or for a main and a dessert.  My favorite is always the cold cream soup followed by the risotto.  Service is polite and not hurried.  It's the perfect 90-minute Parisian lunch.  Here is the menu.

Violin d'Ingres:  I met Michelin-starred chef Christian Constant several years ago when he opened Les Cocottes on rue St. Dominique near the Eiffel tower.  However, the superstar of his string of restaurants on the same block is the elegant and formal Violin d'Ingres.  It is one of the finest dining experiences in Paris, at prices just above what would be paid in a typical bistro.  I enjoy anything pickled as a starter and if you have never tried sweetbreads, this is the place to do it.  I'm excited just to write about it! Chef Constant is famous for his cassoulet and fish dishes.  Here is the menu.

Restaurant 1728:  Whenever I recommend this restaurant to clients, they always write back thanking me.  Ultra high-end dining in Paris can run close to $1,000 per person for a meal.  At 1728, diners get almost the same experience for a fraction of the price.  You will feel like Louis and Marie at this classically decorated restaurant.  The wine list is superb.  If I were you, I would go for the tasting menu.  Here is the menu for lunch and dinner.