This venerable institution has been around since 1832 and has lived through epochs during which rue Montorgeuil was the center of the civilized Parisian world. But it wasn't until 1919 when the same owner of the famous La Tour d'Argent took the reins of this establishment that its reputation was catapulted into the lofty heights of French culinary institutions. Rue Montorgeuil is still a center but now mostly for shoppers and food lovers and its proximity to Les Halles renders it justifiably convenient. True to its name, you must try the snails. And here you have the choice of escargots prepared with the classic garlic parsley butter but also with curry, roquefort, truffles or Burgundian foie gras. It's also famous for its roast Gâtinais duck laced in orange sauce and the chocolate-mint soufflé. The celebrated who have come before you include Sarah Bernhardt, Marcel Proust and Salvador Dali.