The 1900 Universal Exhibition brought with it a wave of urbanization which resulted in the Grand Palais, the Petit Palais, the Pont Alexandre III and the Gare de Lyon train station. Initially a buffet for weary travellers located within this station, Le Train Bleu is now a beautiful restaurant which embodies the Second-Empire style.

Step through the revolving door into the sumptuous surroundings which will quite simply take your breath away. Diners come here for the delectable decor - a masterpiece of gilt, beading, rich purple, sculptures, dark wood panelling, stuccowork and crystal chandeliers. The attention that has been paid to detail is astounding and it is not surprising that the Réjane and Dorée dining rooms as well Tunisian and Algerian lounges were all classed as historic monuments by André Malraux in 1972.

But it's the spectacular frescos that are really eye-catching. These immense, brightly-colored pictures illustrate the cities that travellers pass through when they take the train south to Lyon and the Mediterranean.

The menu is a modern twist on traditional French cuisine. Favorite recipes include regional ingredients particularly those from the south of France. The talent behind it all is André Signoret – former chef at a number of other top Parisian restaurants such as La Réserve de Baulieu sur Mer, Le Crillon, Lenôtre and Le Grand Véfour – who has reigned over the kitchens of this enchanting establishment for the past 18 months.

Le Train Bleu is a popular restaurant that is a feast for your eyes as well as your stomach.