Café le Pavillon

Set in a constantly buzzing area of the 1st arrondissement just five minutes’ walk from Chatelet, Les Halles and the Pompidou centre is this classy, bright and modern Franco-American restaurant, one with a romantic lounge atmosphere that has proved resolutely popular with a trendy, young clientele since its opening in 2003. An enclave of American cuisine in central Paris, Café le Pavillon’s hearty menu is inspired by the dual nationality of its owners, so expect to see delicate French soups and salads sitting alongside bagels, burgers, and other US favourites. The choice of cocktails is particularly impressive, with rumours abounding that Café le Pavillon’s Mojitos here are amongst the best in Paris. The daily happy hours provide a good opportunity to test that out.