Paris, France travel guides, cooking, cook books and sight-seeing.

 Let's face it. Finding the best of the fabled cuisine in Paris can be difficult for us Americans. We're thrown off by the language, the numerous terms for eateries, and the French themselves, who love to pretend they don't speak English.

That's why Patricia Wells's updated guide, now in its fourth edition, is a hit. With detailed information on 450 restaurants, Wells takes readers by the hand and demystifies the culture so well known for its luscious food and demanding gourmands. Sidebars abound: she dissects breads, foie gras, and oysters--and even gives the cultural background on why the French may drink wine in the morning (to kill worms, of course), as well as discussing the pros and cons of eating the rinds of cheeses. Also listed are the best bakeries, cafés, and specialty shops, as well as 50 recipes to try at home.

If there is a criticism to be made of this sturdy and informative book, it's of the writing of this International Herald Tribune critic, which is sometimes riddled with stock descriptions and clichés. Yet readers are likely to forgive her this occasional foible, as Wells's interesting details and enthusiasm are enough to send devout Italophiles, even, to Paris--where they can sink their teeth into those crusty baguettes. --Melissa Rossi

Book your Paris hotel and vacation

About the Author
Patricia Wells is the author of numerous cookbooks, including Bistro Cooking, Patricia Wells at Home in Provence, and Simply French (with Joel Robuchon). Ms. Wells and her husband live in Paris and Provence.

Book Description
A restaurant critic for France's weekly L'Express and The International Herald Tribune, and a renowned food journalist, Patricia Wells is eminently qualified to write about the culinary treasures of Paris. Pat Wells returns to each of the more than 450 restaurants, bistros, cafes, and specialty food shops listed. She samples, she reviews, she updates all vital statistics, she drops those whose quality has disappointedand she recommends more than 100 terrific new places, emphasizing less expensive entries. And of course she brings back recipes20 new ones in all.