I am in constant search for fantastic food in Paris. The irony in that statement is that people think of Paris and they think of amazing baguettes, cheese and wine – all are amazing, but there are definite “Degrees” of “amazingness.”
My favourite purchase before moving to France was a Timeout guide of Food and Drink in Paris. From a girl who would only eat pasta with butter and cheese (but only parmigiano that my aunt bought back, vacuum-packed, from Florence), I became a more refined lady who adores trying new foods and restaurants. I’m sure my Dad would never have guessed this would happen 20 years ago when he would bribe me with $1 to eat a bite of spinach! Regardless, my food tastes have broadened and my first extended stay in Paris, at 16 years old, are probably to thank.
Although I can’t say I’ve tried anything too absure in France yet, like pigs feet, or brains or intestines, I have become a huge fan of boeuf tartare and some of the refined cheeses that I wouldn’t dare touch before.
In an attempt to try new restaurants on a weekly basis, I have managed to do quite a good job at finding some spots that I love, but also branching out and continuing the quest to expand my list.
My favourite place is the only one I’ve eaten at twice – l’Epouvantail – meaning scarecrow in English. It is owned and operated by Dom and his best friend (his name escapes me). They are 2, 30-something French guys, who are the servers at their establishment. They are charming and witty, and most importantly, they know how to get their chefs to cook up some fabulous dishes. A set menu for 24 euro will give you a generous entrée and plat principal. If you want a dessert as well, it’s only 4 euros more. They do some more “Standard French fare”, but they also allow for some diversity and have some Italian and curry inspired dishes. All are fabulous.
A French bistro discovery, called “Chartier”, is a great tourist spot. It is a large, high ceiling, black and white tiled restaurant, where the hustle and bustle resembles that of Paris itself. Although the food is not fabulous, it is good and it is reasonable. Just be aware that although it seems to be a bit of a tourist spot they prefer that you speak French and are “quick” in your decision making skills.
L’Auberge is a fancier French restaurant, just outside the 16th, that my friend recommended to me. It has exquisite cuisine, that is presented beautifully. The wait staff are lovely and it is definite a spot where tourists would never find or venture to.
My most recent find, and I must say myself, a stellar find, is Hotel d’Amour. Listed as a “fashion restaurant” in my Timeout guide, it is just a trendier French resto in a boutique hotel in the 9th, not far from Montmartre. The prices are reasonable and the food was super tasty. The fig salad we shared was mouth watering, and my beouf tartare, for 16 euros, had some amazing spices mixed in and came in a generous portion with fries and green salad.
Bon appétit!
