Also, it was warmer in Mont Saint-Mitchel than it was in Paris…go figure. My family had a marvelous time up there.
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How much longer are you in Paris, Barbara? I arrive there Thursday for the month of January. I would love to say hi if our times overlap.
@MaxEntropy, I’ve enjoyed your reports so much this past week. My husband and I went to Jules Verne two years ago and loved it. We thought our lunch was quite good, if a little over-priced, but considering its unique location and the view, it’s still really in a class by itself.
We also have a soft spot in our hearts for Tour d’Argent. Many years ago, when it still had three stars, we were given a dinner there as a wedding gift. As a newly married couple, you can imagine the service was impeccable. And the meal was too. Somewhere I have a journal which describes that meal. I’ll try to find it later. We also returned to the restaurant when it had two stars and it was still very good. Tour d’Argent and Jules Verne are part of Paris history, and although the courses appearing on your table may not be as refined and creative as Alliance, they really shouldn’t be missed. Bravo to you and your family.
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Alas, Carole, we leave tomorrow. I am here with my son and his family and the kids have to get back to school.
Plus, the apartment that I rented for the six of us would plunge me into bankruptcy for more than our 10 day stay. Sorry that I will miss you.
I am returning for a month (to a much smaller apt) this coming Fall (September 23 to October 21. If you are in town then,I would love to meet up.
The weather has been very cold. According to the locals, it is the coldest it has been in 20 years. That,s the bad news. The good news is that it has been sunny with a bright blue sky almost every day. When did you ever see sun in Paris in December?
Happy New Year and enjoy your month. I am envious.
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We considered ourselves fortunate with the weather. Though brisk, it was mostly dry and perfect for walking. We managed to get in at least 4 miles per day…a few days a LOT more.
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I have a soft spot for Tour d’Argent too, but not due to a previous experience. On my first trip to Paris (a LONG time ago), a colleague and dear friend from near Besancon equipped me with a had-written list of suggestions, including Tour d’Agent and Relais de Venise. He passed away a couple of years ago, far too soon. This was my first visit, and of course we toasted his memory.
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Thanks @sfcarole . The week was an absolute joy, especially being able to share it with my spouse and 21-year-old daughter. I’m not sure how much longer she will be content to hang with her folks 
.
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Love Alliance- no cold bathroom and the ambient sound! Have always been hesitant on Argent, but if it is a must. Here until 6 Jan. Probably back March, then summer. Sometimes I am just happy to sit at the seafood bar area in Le Grande Epicerie after I get my “jam” on- you can hate my for that bad pun but I have jams I love.
Our Xmas eve lunch was at Eclipses. He is a great chef- were a table of 6. He knows us so we felt welcomed. There are so many factors when you pick a restaurant- the company you are with also impacts because you have to consider their enjoyment and expectation.
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When I said “shouldn’t be missed” about Tour d’Argent and Jules Verne, I probably spoke too strongly. Certainly their settings and evolution are part of the fabric and history of Paris, but they should be enjoyed when the time is right - for you. That is, perhaps when the reviews are trending positive or the menu looks appealing or perhaps just because you and your friends are feeling flush and in the mood for something different. As you said, there are many factors that make up the perfect gathering around a table, and feeling welcomed is a big part of the equation, along with food, service, ambiance, etc.
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@Torshi74 @sfcarole Couldn’t agree more. A baguette, butter, and a simple wine can seem like the most sumptuous feast in the right setting, the right company.
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I have given up on Septime. Tried way too many times on reservation release and failed.
in my opinion, while a good restaurant, hardly worth the trouble it takes to get in.
