Mon Vieil Ami is 500 feet east of the Pont Saint-Louis and specializes in seasonal Alsatian dishes. A simple interior of tan and black walls and furnishings greets guests as they are seated and offered a glass of Pinot d'Alsace. Though not particularly loud, the 40 tables at Mon Vieil Ami (My Old Friend) are close together, making this a lively affair. Menu options are true to the Alsace region with a preponderance of root vegetables, as well as pork, roasted chicken and sauerkraut -- the most obvious sign of Alsatian cuisine's German connections. A daily special is offered. As of 2010, Mon Vieil Ami is open for lunch at 2 p.m., dinner from 6:30 to 11 p.m., and is closed Mondays, Tuesdays and for three weeks each during August and January. Arrive dressed casually but leave your T-shirts at home.
Mon Vieil Ami
69 Rue Saint-Louis en l'Ile
75004 Paris, France
011-33-01-40-46-01-35
mon-vieil-ami.com
The Brasserie de l'Ile Saint-Louis is perched on a corner directly across the street from the Pont Saint-Louis. Popular with tourists, this relaxed spot is an ideal place to people watch, observe passing boats on the Seine and listen for buskers playing fiddles on the bridge. Outside, a packed battalion of small tables and chairs welcomes guests, while a red awning provides minimal shade. Inside, servers in knee-length aprons, overhead fans and a long wooden bar with copper kettles and plates displayed above create ambiance. Menu options lean consistently toward traditional country fare and include the ubiquitous steak and frites (French fries), large bottles of Perrier, cassoulet (a bean stew usually containing pork), stingray with browned butter and a large selection of ice cream and pastries. As of 2010, Brasserie de I'Ile Saint-Louis is closed on Wednesdays, open every other day from noon to midnight and is closed during the month of August. Arrive dressed casually and bring your dog if you like.
Brasserie de l'Ile Saint-Louis
55, Quai de Bourbon
75004 Paris France
33-01-43-54-02-59
Le Fin Gourmet is southeast of the Rue des Deux Ponts on the center of the island. Rustic architecture meets modern furnishings at Le Fin Gourmet, as guests are welcomed by vaulted ceilings, natural stone walls, brick floors and red leather-backed chairs with linen-topped tables. Additionally, this restaurant provides just enough space between tables for those seeking a romantic dinner. An ever-changing seasonal menu offers neo-classical French fare, including grilled pork steak with endive, roasted figs in honey ice cream, tartar of prawns during the spring and winter cream of lentil soup. A champagne menu offers suitable accompaniment to your chosen dish. As of 2010, Le Fin Gourmet is open for lunch and dinner from noon to 2:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday. The restaurant is closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Arrive dressed stylishly.
Le Fin Gourmet
42, rue Saint-Louis en l'Ile
75004 Paris France
33-01-43-26-79-27
lefingourmet.fr
