THE FACTS ABOUT MICHAEL CAINES

AL FRESCO - HARRY'S BAR, VENICE The phenomenally famous Harry's Bar, home of the Bellini cocktail and patronised by both international celebrities and Italians, is a Venetian classic. It does simple food really well; the risotto is great - I had one with white truffles and asparagus when I was there. There's a lively ambience and on a fine day the view of Giudecca from upstairs is superb. San Marco 1323, Calle Vallaresso, 30124 Venice, Italy (00 39 041 528 5777). AFFORDABLE - CHEZ GEORGES This is a good old bistro that has real spirit. It's always busy but well worth the struggle for a table. The traditional menu changes all the time - last time I was there I had French onion soup, coq au vin and crème brûlée. It's totally unpretentious and typifies the French attitude to food; Chez Georges is filled with normal Parisians who always manage to fit in an hour for lunch - no matter how busy they are. Rue de Mail 1, 75006 Paris (00 33 1 42 60 07 11). SMART - LA COTE D'OR, PARIS This restaurant has special memories for me because I worked with Bernard Loiseau there. It uses the best ingredients, sourced locally, and doesn't try to be too flash. The classic dishes are my favourites, such as grenouilles with parsley and garlic, or poached pike with shallot confit and red wine. The staff have been doing a fantastic job since Bernard's death in February, continuing what he believed in so passionately. Bernard Loiseau, 21210 Saulieu, Burgundy, France (00 33 3 80 90 53 53). GIDLEIGH PARK, DEVON Chagford, Devon TQ13 (01647 432367; www.gidleigh.com)