I can't help myself. I'm weak. When I travel, food is in center court; the main attraction; the cat's meow. Of course I visit monumental sites and join in on local activities, but a countdown to the next meal is always nipping on my heels. Paris' dining scene only exacerbates my desire to eat--there are so many wonderful places to try! Here are a few I enjoyed this past week:
La Rose de France (24, Place Dauphine, 75001) - Located in a quiet little neighborhood on the nose of Ile de la
Cite, this is a great lunch spot for anyone visiting the island. The salads are large in portion with fresh ingredients; and the plat du jour is a great value. With friendly servers and a huge local following, this is a delightful Parisian experience in spite of its touristy location.
Le Pamphlet (38, Rue Debelleyme, 75004) - This was one of my favorites of the week. Beautiful and charming, this restaurant wraps you in warmth the moment you walk in. The owner (dressed in Levi jeans and cowboy boots) works the dining room while dishing up a spicy sense of humor. The food is memorable. Le Pamphlet definitely deserves a repeat visit!
L'Ambassade d'Auvergne (22, Rue du Grenier Saint-Lazare, 75003) - Another one of my favorite meals in Paris. The lentil and bacon salad and cabbage cake (not at all what you would expect!) are out of this world! The chef and servers are quite the comedians, making the entire dining experience truly fun. Another dining locale worthy of a 
repeat visit.
Leon de Bruxelles (63 Av Des Champs Elysees) - A chain of sorts, this brasserie specializes in mussels. Simply passing by, I probably would not have selected this restaurant because it doesn't necessarily offer the charm and pizzazz of other brasseries or bistros. Yet, based on the recommendation of an associate, I am so glad I did. I tried the mussels steamed in a bleu cheese broth and it was beyond good. The mussels were larger in size and surprisingly tender. Leon de Bruxelles is simply a must when in Paris--check out their website for other locations throughout France.
Pasco (74, Bd de la Tour-Maubourg, 75007) - By far, one of my favorite restaurants in Paris. Interestingly, the owners (two friends) first names are Pasco, thus the name of the restaurant. One Pasco speaks beautiful English--a help when deciphering their simple, yet complexly descriptive menu. The food is beautifully presented and filled with surprises. If I could have had my way, I would have eaten three courses of the piquillo peppers stuffed with goat cheese and drizzled with sweet balsamic vinegar.
