During your holiday in Paris if you are looking for a break from fine French cuisine, there is wide range of alternatives to choose from in the Bastille area of Paris. There are several ethnic restaurants in this area serving high quality food and below a guide of some of the best ones.

The Blue Elephant (43 Rue de la Roquette) – is within very close walking distance from the Bastille. This is an excellent Thai restaurant where you can try delicious dishes such as the coconut prawns in tamarind sauce. The service is also very good here and you can ask for less spicy dishes if you prefer mild food.

Chez Marianne (Rue de Roisiers) – arguably serves the best ethnic food in the city, with North African food the key theme in this restaurant. Visitors can enjoy many kinds of interesting dishes and meals, including custom made falafel and hummus. In the summer be sure to ask to be seated at one of the tables outside and enjoy the night breeze.

Godjo (8 rue de l Ecole polytechnique) – is an Ethiopian restaurant which has gained a very good reputation in recent years. The decor is unusual and attractive, the ambience informal, yet the food is of the highest quality. There are a lot of vegetarian dishes available here, making this restaurant a good choice for those who prefer not to eat meat.

Chez Vong (10, rue de la Grande Truanderie) – is perfect for those looking for a Chinese meal in Paris. Chez Vong serves some delicious specialities including rock lobster.

Mansouria (11, Rue Faidherbe) – offers Moroccan cuisine and is conveniently located close to the Place de la Bastille. Fragrant food and a wonderful ambience make Mansouria an excellent choice for an evening out. This restaurant is also known for the many types of couscous served here.

In addition to the ethnic restaurants mentioned above, you can also go and explore the Marche Bastille, which is full of ethnic food stalls and interesting eating places.

Photo Credit: Blue Elephant Restaurant Paris | Since 2006 Holiday Velvet offers accommodation in Paris.