Unlike in London, I was not surprised at all that we were able to eat well in Paris. While many places in our books and research were either very high priced of cheapy quick bites, we managed to find some middle ground beginning with the first and perhaps the best meal of the trip at L'epi Dupin.
I considered this restaurant our reward for not having eaten since 9 am and trekking through cold rain to shop. Down a side street near Bon Marche, the place was intimidating at first to two non French speakers, but the staff was extremely patient and kind and explained each dish on the pre fixe menu for us.
Both Kara's cumin crusted fish and my veal were superb and our shared chocolate desserts: chocolate french toast and souffle were highlights. This is the place that also introduced me to quince aperitif that matched beautifully with our brie plate.
The next morning (my birthday) greeted us with our best breakfast of the trip at the famous and elegant Laduree, where even the bathroom is photo worthy. Known for their pastries and macaroons in particular, I can attest that their namesake omelet and cappuccinos are just as rave worthy. The croissant here was also probably the best I've ever tasted.
That night we made our way to the 7th arrondisement so that we could eat dinner and walk to the Eiffel tower. Without a specific plan we found a cozy family run bistro with a pre fixe. Here I indulged in foie gras, sea bass, chocolate tart and creme brulee. It was a very comfortable and friendly spot.
Our trip was sprinkled with little sandwich shops and bistros where we grabbed quick though not extraordinary meals but one place we came across is worth noting, even if we didn't eat there: L'ecume St-Honore, a downright adorable fresh, open air raw bar. My coworker is not a raw eater, so it's the very first thing on my list if I ever manage to make it back to Paris.
Our last night landed us in the middle of some sort of fashiony event at the slightly out of the way Tokyo Eat, which to our surprise did not serve Japanese food, but rather modern takes on French classic dishes. Here I enjoyed two typically French foods: beef tartare and escargot that made my trip feel complete. The escargot was particularly memorable in its unique presentation as a garlic and parsley soup with tender bits of escargot inside with a buttery cheese filled pastry stick on the side. Oh, yum…
But what do you think?