Dave, you are right, a reservation is in order at some point, but some earlier posters had suggested our friends should book as soon as they arrive in Paris. I think one week/10 days ahead is enough.

As for the "riots", prleeeaase. Don't want to revive any old chestnut, but, 1. There has never been any unrest in Paris proper (there is a very clear physical demarcation between the city of Paris proper and its suburbs, even if foreign media always ignore this fact); 2. The "riots" stopped one week ago anyways. Haven't you noticed the US media don't thrive on them any more? So they are definitely over.

I have to agree with greg! Security at CDG last month bordered on bizarre. Passports were checked at 3 different places and even after going thru the x-ray machines everyone was directed to a further questioning and asked for receipts, train ticket stubs, or anything to prove where you'd been. Fine if you save them but a bit of trouble if you don't. I was finally about to offer to show them my pictures on the camera until I found one lone receipt and even then I jhad to show the credit card I'd used for purchase!

We are in our late 60's and tavel frequently to France and this was the 1st time we've ever encountered this.

Since I brought up Mon Vieil Ami on the Isle St. Louis as a possibily for a reasonably priced, memorable meal, I thought I'd check. They are doing a special New Year's Eve menu, so cross them of the list for the budget-conscious. (I did make a reservation for Aralynn and I for lunch on Dec. 31, which will be "normal," and I promise to post impressions.) As for New Year's Eve possibilities ... to be continued.

Were those of you going through all the security at CDG flying to the U.S., by chance?

You MUST get Daniel Young's book, Paris Cafes -- it will tell you everything you need to know aobut eating well (and on a budget) in Paris