Eating in Paris: L'Auberge de la Reine Blanche

For Christmas Eve, decided to stay close and chose this tiny, cozy little bistro (The Inn of the White Queen in English) down the street from the apartment. The sign on the door said it was Zagat rated, and it had a positive (if yellowed) review from The Times Picayune of all places taped to their window.

The lighting was dim, the soundtrack was Piaf and the tiny place was soon filled to its picturesque 17th century beams with laughter and table chatter -- in English. American English to be precise. Rut roh. Can you say le trap touriste?

Shame on me for thinking that.

My daily special, leg of lamb roasted in honey with nice side of cheesy garlic souffled potatoes, was incredible as was the creme brulee. The tiny kitchen also turned out cast-iron cocottes which, when their lids were lifted, filled the air with the heady scent of boeuf bourguignon and lamb stew. There were lots of oohs and aahs and inadequate attempts in very bad French to express just how tres bon all of it really was. I would definitely eat here again, especially at the fixed formule prices.

Ambiance: Picturesque and romantic on the enchanting Ile St. Louis

Prices: Reasonable

Food: Very good traditional French dishes.

Hours: Open every day.