grace3

Christian and Catherine Constant are lovely people. I have come to know them well. I dine there every time in Paris, and correspond with Catherine from time to time via e-mail. She had told me ahead of time about each of the new restaurants. They are keeping very busy!!

FYI..the Constants have two newer restaurants that are practically next door to Violon d'Ingres..131 and 139 rue Saint Dominique. They are not starred restaurants, but thave their flair. They are also receiving very good comments..no reservations, so can sometimes be difficult for a table. Give them a try......

I would say Violon d'Ingres. Christian Constant has passed on sooo much to others who are tops now, too. It is probably the best bargain for lunch that you will find for a starred restaurant. Catherine and Christian have become good friends. If you would like Catherine's e-mail address for a reservation, I would be glad to give it to you. a bientot...........

We will be watching for your report!!!

I have never gained weight from a Paris trip....and Ihave dined at all the Michelin starred restaurants. They eat leisurely, no grabbing a fast food something on the run...small portions and a healthy choice of food items. They have no big secrets about it.

You are very near Brasserie Lipp and Les Deux Magots or Chez Maitre Paul around the corner. Lots of choices in the neighborhood!!

Yes, I am familiar with the Saveur article. I am looking forward for my dining experience at his new restaurant.

Re: Villefranche-sur-Mer....I found it on the Holiday-Rentals site... www.holiday-rentals.com Property # 8595. I also have their personal website if you would like it. My email address is grace3@webtv.net. It is a beautiful spot. I would enjoy hearing about any restaurants etc. that you found while there. Joan

I don't know why it would be impolite to ask the Auberge to make a lunch reservation for you. When will you be in the area?? I would ask them to make it about 2 weeks in advance. I just phoned about a reservation for October. She told me it was too early..to make it about 2 weeks in advance..that's how I got the above for you! I have a good friend who was very fond of his restaurant in Burgundy. She will be there mid September. She will give an accurate report. Joan

You say 4 months in the fall...what 4 months were you thinking of?? In Provence you will run into the mistral winds...which are not nice....unless you go way east..Cote d'Azur area. There certainly is nothing wrong with spending 4 months in Paris..in fact, it would be wonderful!! You will find many of the rental places will offer special rates for longer term rentals......Paris Perfect is great....vrbo.com...paris-sleeps..on and on.. I have rented a beautiful apartment in Villefranche-sur-mer in October..I often travel to France in the early fall..a beautiful time, without the heavy tourist traffic. I have spent Christmas in Paris. Enjoy, Joan

Just wear what you would wear to any nice restaurant, any place in the world!! I have dined at most of the Michelin starred restaurants in Paris and always felt comfortable with what I was wearing.... Enjoy..................

I have rented a beautiful apartment in Villefranche-sur-Mer for the first half of October. I have planned to dine with JP Silva in Le Rouret. I wish he had email or fax. I guess I will have to call for a reservation. Do you think I can wait until I arrive, or should I do it from here?? I am open to suggestions to other fine dining experiences. Thanks, Joan