Museum restaurants tend to be overpriced and lacklustre. “Le Moucharabieh,” the self-service restaurant at the Institut du Monde Arabe in Paris, is a refreshing exception to the rule.

A plate of excellent mezze—hommous, aubergine dip, and vegetable salad with a crunchy walnut yogurt dressing—is €4. A plate of couscous with chicken, merghez sausages, and vegetables is €11.

It’s a lively scene, with Arab music blaring in the background and museum-goers mingling with the staff at shared tables. Get an espresso from the machine for €1 and stroll onto the rooftop terrace to enjoy one of the finest views of Paris anywhere.

The restaurant is open for lunch every day except Sunday and Monday.

Popularity: 2% [?]