The oldest restaurant in Paris is guarded by its original iron gate in the 7th district La Petite Chaise continues to serve exquisite examples of classic French cuisine. Since its establishment in 1680 by Georges Rameau, a wine merchant, it has been a central meeting spot for political, social and artistic circles, hosting impromptu cabaret acts, heated political discussions — sometimes ending in arrest, and literary readings by such prominent writers as Colette. Diners pack the house for its slabs of foie gras, escargots and French onion soup capped with sharp gruyere cheese, truffled asparagus, decadent fish dishes and salads of boudin noir with fresh greens.