They happen almost every Sunday night, they've been happening since the 70's, I've been reading articles about it for years and this time to Paris I was able to go to dinner at Jim's!

It all starts with a visit to his website www.jim-haynes.com, click on the "Come to Sunday Dinner!" link, and fill out the form that e-mails Jim a message that you'd like to come. Jim will reply via e-mail welcoming you and asking you to give him a call when you arrive in Paris to confirm. When you call him he'll give you directions and the entry code for the gate, tell you what's for dinner, and have a quick getting to know you chat. In a few minutes you'll feel as if you're going to visit an old friend.

Dinner starts at 8pm sharp and you'll be part of the group heading in to the party. Jim will be sitting on a stool in the middle of the room. You'll give him an envelope with a donation for the food, Jim will check your name on the list and then very quickly have you introduced to a number of people and talking. Not talking is not allowed and if you're standing on your own either someone will introduce themselves to you or Jim will introduce you to someone. There will be around 50 to 60 people there ranging from all over the world to some of the neighbors all with either a story to tell or wanting to hear your story. The night I was there about a third were first timers (like myself), a third were visitors who had been before, and a third were locals and old time friends. Through the dinner I had talked to each third and any shyness I was feeling was soon forgotten.

Not only great conversation but the food is great too! Dinner that night started with a lentil soup and bread that was being served as you came in, then it was a fish and vegetable stew served over rice, and then there were several deserts along with wine, beer, sodas and juices. You won't be leaving hungry!

with permission, text©Frommer's, 2006