I’m not reinventing the wheel in stating that Trois Fois Plus de Piment is excellent, but after trying a similar, nearby spot that proved ultimately lackluster, I can confirm that this is definitely where you want to go if you’re craving Sichuan noodles in Paris. You’ll have loads of choice on this menu: hot or cold, with or without soup, topped with zhazha dried beef or mapo tofu. And while there are just two vegetarian entrées, almost anything can be made meat-free.
The dandan noodles (13.90) are some of the most popular on the menu, but I ultimately opted for a cousin, the yibin noodles (13.90) topped with a similar blend of pork, sesame sauce, peanuts, and cabbage to which chopped walnuts and a sort of Chinese sauerkraut are added. These noodles were ultra savory and so saucy; I couldn’t get enough.
My dining companion went with the mapo tofu noodles which, as with most dishes on the menu, can be made with beef (15.50), pork (14.50), or vegetables (13.90). Whichever topping you choose, the noodles come with a raw egg yolk in the center that adds even more richness to the sauce. The Sichuan pepper zing here was excellent, and I loved the tender tofu mingling with each and every bite.
Spiceheads used to have few options in a city where the local cuisine doesn’t tend to go any hotter than black pepper or mustard. But at Trois Fois Plus de Piment, you can choose your spice level – and three is already fairly hot. (Full disclosure: I love spicy food. I got a three. I will get a four next time. But I like things *hot*.)
I’ve also heard great things about the dumplings here, but honestly, the noodles are so generous I didn’t need anything more!
Trois Fois Plus de Piment – 184 rue Saint Martin, 75003