"Where do you go for some of the most consistently delicious vol-au-vent and chou farci in Paris? It may not be the most obvious geographic choice, but head to a pocket of the 7th arrondissement, better known for its politicians and civil servants who work nearby at the National Assembly. The government types, along with in-the-know locals and travelers who have done their homework, book ahead for one of a dozen or so tables at lunch or dinner and dig into tried-and-true French classics. The vol-au-vent, a buttery pastry shell filled with either lobster or a comforting mix of veal sweetbreads, chicken, and spinach, is the clear standout, as is the cabbage stuffed with fresh pork and Morteau sausage. To end the meal, direct your attention to a generous profiterole, drizzled tableside with thick chocolate sauce, and an aged digestif from the boozy cart." - sara lieberman, lindsey tramuta