Hi Alec,

I am going with my daughter (her 18th birthday and high school graduation present) to Paris on July 15. We have two copies of your book (I have it on my Kindle!), and we are looking forward to tasting it all. Two questions: How long in advance do we need to book a table; I know you say reservations are absolutely necessary. And if you have a thought or two about a restaurant or two that we should not miss--my daughter is a serious foodie who loves everything from haute cuisine to the tucked-away gem on the lower east side of Manhattan (where we live).

Thanks so much for the book!

P.S. One other thing. Duck. Where would you go for sublime, fairly classic (though could have a modern twist) rendition? Thanks again.

Hi Nina,

You haven't told me when you'll be coming to Paris, but make all reservations as soon as you can. I'd like you to get into L'Astrance, Gagnaire, La Bigarrade (see reviews on this website), Frenchie (casual but very good and fun), Itineraires (also on this website), L'Epigramme (also on the site), and Le Chateaubriand.

Best, Alec

Thanks, Alec. We are arriving the morning of July 17 for 11 nights. I'll make reservations pronto!

All best,
Nina