Generally speaking, I’ve found that the Venn Diagram of the beauty of a centrally-located Parisian restaurant and the quality on the plate is two circles, but frankly, I was wowed by the sheer deliciousness on offer at Le Grand Véfour.
Category: Restaurant Reviews
The Lunchtime Prix Fixe at Naam is Worth the Trek
This small Thai restaurant takes full advantage of local, seasonal ingredients to revisit classic Thai recipes.
Le Grand Colbert’s Dining Room is Gorgeous, But Its Famous Chicken Leaves Much to Be Desired
Ostensibly, ironically, Le Grand Colbert’s signature dish wasn’t even on the menu until after the movie had been shot, so you’d think they’d manage something better than this.
Lapérouse Is All About the Vibes – with Prices to Match
Lapérouse is as much a restaurant as a museum to past patrons like Emile Zola and Victor Hugo, many of whom chose this space, with its private salons and hidden corridors, as a destination to visit with their mistresses.
Le Bûcheron Isn’t Revolutionizing the Café – It’s Just Giving it a New Coat of Paint
Come for the gorgeous sidewalk terrace positively soaked in afternoon sunshine or the discounted counter service of 1-euro espresso, baguette sandwiches, and a handful of quick-and-easy dishes like croque or organic omelet, all accompanied by a 2-euro baby pour (read: 10cl) of house wine.
Drouant Adheres to the Old Codes of French Service
This spot instigated the tradition of literary prizes doled out by restaurants, but even if you’re not a contender for the Goncourt, it’s well worth a visit for the perfection of the tableside service.
I Wouldn’t Queue for Bouillon Chartier
I don’t love Bouillon Chartier, but you’re ever looking for an inexpensive French meal outside of normal dining hours, the pot au feu really is quite tasty, and there’s perhaps nowhere in Paris aside from a bouillon where two can enjoy three courses – plus wine – for less than 40 euros. But it’s not worth the queue – or the rude service.
Le Soufflot is the Perfect Spot for Parisian Staples
You don’t need to cross Paris to try Le Soufflot, but the next time you’re in the area, stumble in to encounter a totally typical Parisian experience.
Chantefable is a Fun Vibe but Far from Deserving of All the Accolades
Chantefable offers decent French food at good prices in a beautiful room in the far-flung 20th.
If You Want to Know How Raclette Got its Name, Turn to le Chalet Savoyard
Come for the raclette and stay for the Berthoud.