Septime

Septime, currently ranked among the 50 best restaurants in the world, has remained one of the hardest reservations to snag in Paris since opening in 2011. Maybe it’s because chef Bertrand Grébaut is a hugely talented protégé of master chefs Joel Robuchon and Alain Passard, and the quality of the food is consistent and remarkable for the price (from $70 a person for dinner). Tasting menus are comprised of well-seasoned, contemporary market fare such as white asparagus with oysters and gribiche vinaigrette, line-caught red tuna with raspberries, and the cult favorite Petit Suisse-lemon tart, a clever twist on cheesecake. The venue, named for a character played by the late, great comic actor Louis de Funès, captures youthful French charm and creativity with its industrial design and friendly staff who take great pains to explain each dish you’ll be devouring.