Les Deux Magots

This legendary hangout for the sophisticated residents of St-Germain-des-Prés becomes a tourist favorite in summer. Visitors monopolize the few sidewalk tables as the waiters rush about, seemingly oblivious to anyone's needs. Regulars from around the neighborhood reclaim it in the off season. Les Deux Magots was once a gathering place of the intellectual elite, like Sartre, de Beauvoir, and Giraudoux. Inside are the two large statues of magots (Confucian wise men) that give the cafe its name. The crystal chandeliers are too brightly lit, but the regulars are used to the glare. After all, some of them even read their daily papers here. You can order salads, pastries, ice cream, or one of the daily specials; the fresh fish is usually a good bet.

Les Deux Magots - Café Restaurant. 6, place Saint-Germain-des-Prés - Paris 75006. Tel : 01 45 48 55 25 Fax : 01 45 49 31 29. Email : contact@lesdeuxmagots.fr