Spoon - Food and Wine, Paris

The decor, conceived by Philippe Starck, of sober functional interiors, contrasts with the rich dishes on offer here - a thousand and one combinations are possible as you can choose the sauce to accompany your meal. Chef Alain Ducasse takes foreign ideas (notably Chinese and Japanese) and reworks them to give them a French twist. Results include half a Glazed Roast Duck with a Bearnaise Sauce, and a Grilled Vegetable Chow Mein. There is even a valet-parking service. The super-chic Avenue Montaigne is just seconds away. Booking is imperative in this very popular place.