Sure could use your opinions on this. When going solo It would be iteresting to have a meal at a communal table.

Can't wait to hear all about it....

You might start out by letting us know where in France you'll be traveling.

I know a good table in Ste Eulalie????

Stu Dudley

Yup, we need more info. There's one in Campagne, but if you'll be 500 km away, it won't do you much good.

oooooooooops, Sorry I meant Paris! Gheez, I'm not thinking.

L'Atelier, Joel Robuchon's casual restaurant, is a GREAT place for a solo diner.

It is bar seating, not a communal table, but it is very comfortable and the food is wonderful. I at here alone a few years ago and would return.

France has a long traditions of communal dinning. Many WWII war widows made a living by converting their living rooms into communal dinning facilities and serving meals without a menu (what madame cooked that day was what you ate). Everyone passed around the wine bottle(s) and water carafes and each served himself from large dinner platters of what was being offered.

Along this same theme, today's upgraded version, <i>la Soirée</i>, is alive and well in Paris. It's a great way to dine and meet other locals/tourists. Here are a few suggestions:

http://www.jim-haynes.com/
http://www.fra.cityvox.fr/soirees_pa.../Manifestation
http://www.parissoirees.com/welcome.html
http://monsite.wanadoo.fr/chienlunatique/

You might want to check out Chartier...not the most refined dining, but a unique experience.

Polidor also has long tables and a lot of atmosphere and history; the food isn't haute cuisine, but it wasn't bad the couple of times I've eaten there.

Thank you so much for all the great idea's. Can't wait to try them.

I agree with StCirq about Chartier. At first I was annoyed that they stuck me at a table with others when there were plenty of empty tables around, but it turned out to be a fun experience. Try the endive and roquefort salad.