Graffiti Wall: Food Lovers' France

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Food Lovers' France: 2008

Snails... horse meat... tongue... goose liver paté... stinky cheese.... Even people who like American fast food might enjoy Europe's top cuisine. Share your best treats in France.

Please don't post questions here. Use our Travelers Helpline.

French Foodaholics
Check out the blog ChocolateandZuccini. You will not be disappointed.
Kathleen
Snowed-in Camano, WA USA Wed 12/24/2008

Club des Croqueurs de Chocolate
Foodies, and especially chocoholics, should do themselves a favor and check out the web site of "Club des Croqueurs de Chocolate". This is a definitive guide to chocolate shops in France, rated and reviewed on the basis of their chocolates. We've spent many a day in France/Paris traveling from one chocolate shop to another on the basis of this web site, never disappointed. They have a book, but it hasn't been updated for a few years. You can though download a PDF from their web site with a list of chocolate shops (in French).
skshrews
Harvard, MA USA Sun 12/21/2008

Paris Restaurant Guides
Rather than recommend a specific set of restaurants, I would like to suggest a couple of resources that will help you. My favorite guide to Paris Restaurants is "Hungry for Paris" by A. Lobrano. He also has a good website and will respond to email. The other extremely useful reference is "Pudlo Paris." Both of these can be found on Amazon, and at Red Wheelbarrow.
Lachlan
Seattle, WA USA Thu 12/11/2008

Chinese in Paris
This was one of my very good Experience in Paris.Am a new bee to Paris and was wondering where to go for lunch and am very interested in having Chinese food.. searched the net for good Chinese eat out and thank god http://www.yummyuck.com helped me to find one of the best Chinese restaurant near my stay, it was Great Wall Chinese Restaurant at Maumelle. The food was very good and really authentic.. also very friendly staffs..

Regards, Tabin.
Tabin
NY, USA Mon 12/01/2008

Bayeux
Our trip to Paris and the Normandy area was a food-filled wonderland, but want to especially share our two great(and 1 not so great) eating experiences in Bayeux. Everything about Le Pommier made this our most memorable dinner in Bayeux, expensive and worth it!. The Petit Normand was our second choice for a wonderful menu, great staff yet not so pricy. The ambiance was a bit more casual. However, we were recomended the Asiette Normande by many people and web sites, including this one, but our dining experience there was marginal at best. Surly staff, over-priced food. No one in the restaurant seemed to be enjoying their meals.
Anita
North Fork, CA USA Tue 11/18/2008

9 days of eating in Paris
Dear French Foodies,

I rented an apartment (near Notre Dame) with 4 other women who weren't foodies, which is why I didn't get to eat in as many of my Rick Steves and Chowhound-researched finds as I'd imagined I would. This means that each night I had to go along with the group's choices, which never met my food-obsessed standards. Unfortunately for me, the group was more interested in pigging out on desserts than in sampling what I like to call GREAT FRENCH FOOD.

Since we were staying right down the street from (1) Eric Kayser's organic bakery, I sampled his brioche loaf (I only scored one small piece - the 4 others grabbed and gobbled when I left the room for a minute), his whole wheat and regular baguettes, and a few of his desserts (not that great, in comparison with the outstanding (2) Pierre Herme work-of-art desserts and delicious macarons). Kayser's croissants (which we ate every morning) were always excellent.

I had some (3) Berthillon ice cream (apricot and mango), even though it was chilly and cold outside and I was the only person eating ice cream as I walked along the streets towards Notre Dame. Everyone else was eating hot crepes, which I never got to try, darn it.

I grabbed a falafel (with hot sauce) from (4) l'as du Falafal, the famous falafel place in the Marais (we went early Sunday - so the line wasn't that long), which we ate in the Place de Vosges, sitting on a bench, people-watching.

I tried the macarons from (5) Dallyou (across from the Luxembourg Gardens), and had to go back for more, because they were so mouth-wateringly yummy (chocolate was my favorite). I also tried the macarons from (6) Pierre Herme - and especially adored both the passion fruit and chocolate. I was on a mission to try as many different macarons as I could, I guess, but I was too full to eat any more, so I gave up early on. I also had my favorite apple pastry from (7) Poilane on rue du Cherche Midi. They're on your left, sitting on the wooden counter under the window as you walk in the front door. Don't miss them.

We ate lunch in 3 museum cafes: (8) Cafe Marly at the Louvre (great location, but too expensive and not worth the price - 22 euros for a simple piece of chicken breast with a little salad on the top; 14 euros for soggy, cold haricot verts with a sprinkling of diced red peppers); (9) Musee d'Orsay restaurant - cheaper than the Louvre, and much more innovative. I had dourade in an orange-butter foam sauce, with charred endive - delish; and (10) The Tea Room @ the Musee Jacquemart Andre, where I had quiche, salad, and dessert (4 of us split our desserts, so we each got to taste more).

I took myself out to lunch at 3 highly recommended cafes: (11) Chez L'Ami Jean (near the Eiffel Tower) - expensive @ 43 euros for the formule lunch, but cheaper for the 17 euro blackboard specials, which weren't offered to me, stupid American tourist that I am. There was so much delicious food I could barely eat half of it on my own; (12) Cafe des Musees in the Marais, where I was the only American and where I chowed down on an outstanding 13.50 euro formule of soup, bread, pork roast, roasted red onion, and pureed cauliflower; and (13) Le Pre Verre (near the Cluny museum), where I had another 13.50 euro formule lunch: a small glass of red wine, a small vinegar-dressed potato salad with a generous piece of gravlax on top, a small chicken breast over 4 baked/fried polenta slabs, and a small demitasse cup of decaf espresso.

Dinners were a disappointment, since I was unable to convince the group to eat at restaurants I'd scouted out. We ate at (14) Les Bouqinistes, which was overpriced (over $100/pp) and quite ordinary, in my opinion; (15) L'Epi Dupin, where the chef oversalted the food so much I could barely eat my dinner; a neighborhood place, (16) Chez Rene, where I had a delicious 14.50 euro prix fixe veal stew and fresh spinach (and the waiter gave me a take-home container...apparently a first for him); and (17) Le Refuge des Fondues, which I consider a juvenile, college-crowd-centered fondue place (it's in Montmartre), because you drink wine from baby bottles and eat cheese and/or meat fondue in a noisy, hot little place where you must climb over your table if you leave to go to the bathroom.

I had outstanding cheese from various cheese shops - but I can't remember any names except for (18) Marie Cantin (near the Rue Cler), which had my favorite smelly, runny cheeses, as well as a well-informed staff.

I also bought (and then returned to buy again) exquisite lime-infused caramels from (19) Patrick Roger's chocolate shop at 108 Blvd. St. Germain. I offered one to my seatmate on the airplane ride home, and she swooned with me as they dissolved in our mouths at the same time.

That's my eating diary in a nutshell. As for the museums I visited - I think I checked out eleven of them in eight days - an all-time record. Thank god for museum passes!
Sharron Freeman
West Hartford, CT USA Fri 11/14/2008

A World in a Pan Cooking Class in Paris
For anyone wanting to take cooking classes in Paris, please consider A World in a Pan with Laura Neulat.

I took the Chic Français class for 50 Euros (USD accepted too) in Oct. 2008 and it was excellent. Other classes and market tours are offered for reasonable fees. Class is taught in English in a gorgeous Parisian apartment with a small group of students of all cooking abilities.

http://www.aworldinapan.com
Holly
West Palm Beach, FL USA Sun 11/09/2008

Marguerite's Elegant home cooking: a glimpse of
With Marguerite's cooking class we were so pleased to have the opportunity to get a glimpse of "real" Paris life. It was great to share her home and her knowledge of French food.
Karen
Oregon USA Thu 11/06/2008

La Varangue
We just returned from our annual trip to Paris and once again visited La Varangue, or Philippe's Restaurant, as the owner calls it, in the 7th. This is a unique place--he serves down home, rib-sticking country French food at very affordable prices, with the added plus of the charming atmosphere of an authentic neighborhood bistro. Delicious!
Larry Richard
Wayne, PA USA Mon 11/03/2008

PARIS GREETER FREE WALKING TOUR PROGRAM
I saw articles 2 wks. ago (10/12/2008) in both the San Jose Mercury & San Francisco Chronicle the same day, about a new program in Paris. The program is where Parisians give free walking tours of their city, it's free except for paying any expenses of the resident giving the tour. The tours may include subjects of interest to food lovers. Tours are available in English & about 8 other languages. Site is:

www.parisgreeters.org

I haven't been on one of these tours myself, but I hope to the next time I'm there.
K WRIGHT
SAN JOSE, CA USA Sun 10/26/2008

Paris Cooking Class
My husband and I took a cooking and market class from A World in a Pan in September. Laura Neulat met the students at the Metro stop across from her apartment. We then went to the open air market where she purchased fresh ingredients for our luncheon. We continued to her apartment where we prepared lunch. There were 5 students, and I think we all had a lovely experience. Laura emailed the recipes to us, and they were waiting for us when we arived home several weeks later.
Rene Miller
Westminster, CA USA Tue 10/21/2008

World in a Pan Class
My husband and I also just took the World in a Pan marketing/cooking class last week with Laura. One of the highlights of our trip and highly recommended. We felt like we'd been invited to a French home for dinner. A neat experience with interesting people.
Judy
Alexandria, MN USA Tue 10/21/2008

Cooking class in Paris
While in Paris in October 2008, I took 3 cooking classes and one stood out above the rest. Cookn with class with Chef Eric Fraudeau is a must for all who are interested in taking a cooking class in Paris. His class size is small, limited to 6 students and he shares a wealth of knowlege on how to shop for cheese, fruits, vegetables, breads, meats, poultry, and seafood. The class starts off at a farmers market where you will discuss and choose what you will make that day. Then you take a 10 minutes stroll to Chef Eric's commercial kitchen, which is small but has everything needed to make a great meal. The class is very hands on and you can expect to help chop, cut, slice, marinate, cook and bake. The end result is a fabulous meal. The menu for my class included the following: Chanterelle Salad, Mussels stew with fish and saffron cream sauce, Marinated quail and duck breast, cheese and wine, and moelleux au chocolat (molten chocolate lava cake). The only negative was that I didn't get a copy of the recipes until 2 weeks later. I was so inspired to duplicate what I had made in class for my family, so the waiting was a bit difficult. However, once I recieved the recipes, they were easy to read and make and well worth the wait. I did have a few questions about the recipes and Chef Eric was good about returning my emails. Cookn with class is one of the few English speaking class in Paris and well worth the price.
Tiana
Newport Beach, CA USA Mon 10/20/2008

Cooking class
If you are interested in food (And who isn't?) and have time when in Paris to spend a wonderful few hours learning more about the how, where and what of buying and cooking, join a class with Eric Fraudeau of Cook'n With Class. It was great fun and I had the best time. Small groups allow for individual attention and a bonus is that you get to explore the amazing food shops around a lovely part of Montmartre as you buy everything you need to prepare a magnificent feast. Bon appetite!
S Tuana
Perth, WA Australia Mon 10/13/2008

Marguerite's Elegant home cooking
Marguerite's cooking class was truly one of the highlights of our Paris trip!! I can re-live my experience over & over with my new recipes!
Lisa B
Sausalito, CA USA Fri 10/10/2008

French dining
My favorite meal in France was at a small bouchon in Lyon. While my unfortunate husband had to work, I sat at an outside table, eating pike quenelles and drinking a " pot du Rose".The meal lasted two hours and I was so struck by my position and wishing it were my life rather than my vacation, I was in tears. Old Lyon is gorgeous, laid back, and perfect for walking and eating inexpensively. I shared an ice cream cone with a pigeon that sat on my table, next to the river, watching Lyon residents dumping their wine bottles into the recycling bins in the early morning air. My husband and I enjoyed our last meal in Lyon, sitting at a cafe next to the one I first ate at by myself. L'Amants de St. Jean and Le Tablier were the name of the restaurants. The staff were friendly and though they could speak some english, we were the only Americans there. We made friends with a French couple and ended the evening playing darts at a pub. In Paris, there are so many ways to eat. We ate crepes from street vendors, snack foods from Asian take away shops, and small cafes. After dealing with the heat and traffic of Paris in July, we escaped to a cafe off the Place Dauphine. There are several to choose from amd the shady square with its strolling violinist seemed miles away from the chaos. It was Paris without the noise. A great place to relax after sightseeing.
Lorretta
Houston, TX USA Mon 10/06/2008

Cooking School
If you enjoy cooking, Cookin' with Class is a wonderful treat. Cooking is about more than just combining ingredients. It's about learning where to purchase them, how to select them and how to pare them with other courses. From the moment you meet Eric, you'll be immersed in a wonderful experience that will make your trip to Paris complete. You'll participate in planning and preparing a gourmet meal and come away with new recipes as well as friends. You'll love it!!!
Susan Stofel
Birmingham, AL USA Fri 10/03/2008

World in a Pan cooking
My husband and I just returned from Paris. We were fortunate enough to take a cooking class from Laura at World in a Pan. It was a wonderful experience. We started off by market shopping and picking up all fresh ingredients for our class. The class was limited to 6. It was hands on preparation. Even my husband enjoyed the class although he was reluctant to take it. It will be an unforgettable memory for us. You won't be disappointed.
Jennifer
Delta, BC Canada Fri 10/03/2008

PARIS RESTAURANTS
My wife Elaine, daughter Tara and I recently spent 10 days in Paris. Of course we had to try as many Paris restaurants as possible. Friends had highly recommended La Varangue at 27 rue Augereau. It turned out to be all they said and more as evidenced by the fact that it was the only restaurant we returned to for a second meal before leaving Paris. The owner, Philippe, made us feel immediately at home and although he recognized he should speak English to us, he appeared to be genuinely pleased that our daughter spoke French fluently and jokingly insisted that Elaine and I speak French as well. Philippe was too gracious to comment on my feeble attenpts to speak the French I had learned 40 years ago in High School. Without going into any great detail about the individual dishes we were served, I can unequivocally say that everything we ate, from the appetizers to the desserts was excellent! The portions were filling and the prices were very reasonable. Given the smaller size of his charming establishment, Philippe was able to give everyone his personal attention. In short, Philippe and his staff made served us with an efficiency and courtesy that is sadly lacking these days in larger restaurants. We have no hesitation whatsoever in recommending La Varangue to all who may visit Paris. In our opinion you should not leave Paris without having visited La Varangue.
JOHN LISOWSKI
LONDON, ONT USA Sun 09/21/2008

Cooking with Marguerite in Paris
It was such a wonderful experience to take those fresh ingredients and whip up a delightful lunch at Marguerite's cooking school. We had so much fun working as a team in her kitchen and greatly appreciated her excellent instructions and cooking tips.
John and Dina
Winterpark, FL USA Mon 09/01/2008

Cook'n With Class
I am ever the skeptic...how could a cooking class be an enjoyable part of a chance of a lifetime trip to Paris??? Well, believe me, IT WAS incredible! Don and I were in an evening class with two others. We loved the cozy environment. Even though we are pretty comfortable in the kitchen, Eric showed us some great techniques (deboning a quail!!), served us wonderful wines, deliciously fresh foods (mussels and bream!!!), and fed us cheeses for which to DIE. (Don and I LOVED the cheese and all the background Eric gave us!). Would we do it again? IN A HEARTBEAT!!! Don't miss this experience, guys!
don and susan
northeast georgia mountain area, GA USA Sun 08/31/2008

Unexpectedly Good
The food at Constant Cafe (near the Eiffel tower next to hotel Londres Eiffel which is in the book) was delicious. We started with deviled eggs (yep the tasty treat your mom makes) and then we both had sliced tbone with mashed potatoes. My husband finished with chocolate mousse that was so thick we could have plastered walls with it.

I also have to mention the very famous macroons from Laduree, of which I am eating a few right now!
Meagan
Expat living in Germany, USA Sat 08/23/2008

Berthillon Salt Caramel Ice Cream
The Salt Caramel Ice Cream at Berthillon is the hands down the best ice cream I have ever tasted.
Ambrosia
Mar Vista, CA USA Sat 07/26/2008

Excellent fondue in Paris
Nearing Pigalle (not exactly the best part of Paris, but c'est la vie!) is a restaurant called Le Refuge de Fondue, a teeny hole in the wall that only has two communal tables set so close to the wall that the maitre d has to put you in your seat himself. You pay around twenty euros and heres what youll get: an aperitif served with some little hors d'ouevres such as cubes of sausage and cheese, followed by your choice of red or white wine (the only choices, rouge ou blanc) served in BABY BOTTLES. Then you will choose meat or cheese fondue- meat comes with beef and potatoes, cheese with neverending baskets of bread. And, if you have room for dessert (its included in the price, so who doesnt have room?) you will be able to choose from several options including a chocolate gateau and a chocolate ice cream "bombe" type thing. Not to be missed, its a little hard to find on the Rue Trois Freres- its best to ask a local crepe vendor if you actually want to find it.
Christine
NH USA Tue 07/22/2008

Cookn with Class
Here is another must-do post for Eric Fraudeau's CooknwithClass. Like others who have posted, we found this to be a highlight of our Paris 5-day stay. Six hours with Eric and his Italian assistant Pinot was like a special tour through culinary France. Our private 4-person 2-instructor class was just delightful. The shops and markets we shopped in have established relationships with Eric, so they are welcoming to all kinds of questions. We learned to prepare quail, fish, ratatouille, a wonderful orange-based salsa, strawberry tarts, and learned how to pare 5 kinds of cheese with breads and the rest of the meal, wine included. Eric and Pinot are both married to women from NYC, and have lived and worked there and other places abroad, so are beautifully prepared to interact with anyone in English, French, Italian and some Spanish
Mary Ann Hurst
Camden, SC USA Thu 07/17/2008

Best treats
My best treats were the delicious macarons from Laduree of course; the chocolate fondant of the bakerie rue d'auteuil near A world in a pan; and the stuffed turkey rolls from a world in a pan.
Melissa Cobern
Dallas, TX USA Wed 07/09/2008

I recommend...
This was my 4th trip to Paris and here are my highlights: Drinks, try the Plaza Athene bar. A bit pricey but really nice! Restaurant, get a reservation at Le Salon in the 13th, very intimate and secluded Class, try a world in a pan. Definitely worth every cent.
Jeremy
San Diego, CA USA Mon 07/07/2008

Best cooking class in Paris
My mother and I had the best time taking a class at A World in a Pan. A friend of ours who had tried it last November had highly recommended it to us and we sure weren't disappointed! Mom and I really enjoy good food but truth be told we are not the best or most experienced cook. But Laura made it easy for us and we really felt like chefs by the end of the class. I sure won't be quitting my day job but now I know how to do a blanquette de veau! Thank you so much Laura
Melissa and Anne
Malibu, CA USA Sun 07/06/2008

Chef Eric Fraudeau's Cook'n with Class
Our cooking experience with Chef Eric Fraudeau of Cook'n with Class was marvelous . . . even better than I had hoped for. Eric was an excellent guide and teacher as he took us to the various market shops to purchase the ingredients for our meal. Back at his well-equipped kitchen, we each had our own work station. Eric involved each participant in the cutting, chopping, stirring, and so on involved in the preparation of our meal. The meal was incredibly delicious! Everyone going to Paris should definitely include a class with Eric on their "must do" list! My favorite food tip from Eric is that "dessert is not a food" . . . and if it's not a food, it can't have calories!
Susan Freeman
Hondo, TX USA Wed 07/02/2008

Cook'in with Class
What's not to love about France! I recently went to Paris to celebrate my 50th birthday with my sister. On-line, we registered for a cooking class,Cooknwithclass.com w/ Chef Eric Fraudeau. We weren't sure what to expect but it was definately one of the highlights of our trip! We met in the morning in Montmarte where we shopped in the open market for our ingredients and toured the spectacular meat, cheeese, pastry, vegetable, fish & meat shops. We then went back to Eric's studio kitchen and prepared a delicious 5 course lunch. We all had fun together and celebrated our few hours of blissful learning over a wonderful french meal with perfectly matched wines and a delicious assortment of cheese. Chef Eric forwarded the recipes to our e-mails once we returned home. It was truely an enjoyable "french experience" that I highly recommend and I look forward to sharing this meal with my family!
Jeannine Harris
New Vernon, NJ USA Tue 07/01/2008

Cooknwithclass
When you find the information about cookinwithclass.com, don't hesitate. Reserve your spot in class with Chef Eric as soon as possible. Shopping at the open air market and cooking in Eric's cozy kitchen was a super experience. We all chopped,stirred, tasted and cooked together in a casual and laughter filled session. Don't miss Eric's cookinwithclass while you are in Paris!
Susanne Goebel
St. Louis, MO USA Tue 07/01/2008

Cook'n with Class
Two of my children, my sister, and I were signed up for Eric's class. Some of us were apprehensive regarding the level of skill required and the nature of the class: we didn't need to be! We were the class, and Chef Eric Fraudeau could not have been better. He put us instantly at ease and then set us to work making 5 dishes that were even more delicious than they were accessible to the home cook. We considered our afternoon with him to be one of our favorite experiences of our trip. We highly recommend his class!
Kimberly Mauer
Cincinnati, Ohio USA Mon 06/30/2008

Paris- Eiffel Tower area
We had two wonderful meals in this area.First Cafe Constant, which you can get into without reservations only if you come early.139 rue St Dominique Food is superb- I had an incredible asparagus salad and sea bass, my husband duck and pate, with wonderful wine, and a great chocolate dessert, about 80 euros and worth every penny. For a little more, close to 100 euro, Le Bon Accueil (14, rue de Monttesuy) has refined and elegant food, with service to match and wonderful wine - great for your last night because you can walk right over to the Eiffel Tower. We also like a little cafe -le Bosquet 46 avenue Bosquet, with a very varied menu, lovely service, moderately priced.
Phyllis Hancock
Cresskill, N.J. USA Mon 06/23/2008

Near France, fantastic dining in City of Luxembourg
While on a World War battlesite tour in France, we recently visited the Hamm Cemetery outside of the City of Luxembourg and were treated to two exquisite dining experiences.

First was a wonderful and cozy Italian restaurant called Il Richio with "the best Italian food outside of Italy" as a local told us. The pasta with truffles was a memory I will savor for a very long time. Service was friendly, warm, and accommodating. We felt like well fed members of the family!

Our group also enjoyed a fantastic dinner at Clairefontaine where the staff wine-paired a five course dinner of local wines and exquisitely prepared and presented dishes. Members of the party are still raving about the impeccable service, excellent food, and great wine. Another memorable experience that we hope to repeat on our next visit to Luxembourg City.
Karen Lugo
Riverside, CA USA Sat 06/21/2008

Eating in Bayeux and Paris
My husband and I have just returned from a 2-week trip to Europe that included Normandy and Paris.

In Bayeux, La Pergola (Rue St-Jean, bottom of the hill, orange awnings) was wonderful. We split 50 cl of local red wine and a Salad Nicoise (best I've ever had). We each had a Galette (savory crepe); mine was filled with ham, cheese and a fried egg (good); he had the Galette Normandy, filled with ham, cheese, sauteed apples and creme fraiche (fantastic - highly recommended). Meal was less than 50 Euros and we had plenty to eat.

In Paris, it is very difficult to find bad food. The Parisians are serious about their cuisine. Some tips: Our best meal was at La Tour Marbourg Cafe (don't have their exact address, but this is easy to remember: La Tour Marbourg Cafe is located on the Rue La Tour Marbourg and next to the La Tour Marbourg Metro stop). We each ordered the 24 Euro 3-course dinner. The grilled chicken breast is the BEST I've ever eaten and it was served on a bed of amazing risotto (better than what I've had on 16 trips to Italy). The panna cotta dessert was also to die for.

For macaroons (two meringue disks sandwiched together with creamy filling; come in flavors like lemon, raspberry, chocolate, coffee and pistacio), just about every pastry shop offers their version. Large one are 3 Euro in fancy pasty shops; we opted to try our first ones at McDonalds (dropped in to use the bathroom and grab a bottle of water), in the McCafe - 1.80 Euro. AMAZING!

Be sure to try the crepes. We split a choco-banana crepe (at the foot of the Eiffle Tower; crepe filled with thick gooey chocolate sauce and sliced bananas). Yum-O!
Dolores
USA Thu 06/05/2008

Paris restaurants
We recently ate in a wonderful place on Ile St. Louis in Paris-- and it's not in the Zagat guidebook (yet). Called Le Fin Gourmet (42 Rue St. Louis en I'le), prices are reasonable (two can eat for about 50 Euros, without wine), and the food is creative and wonderful. The wait staff is helpful and speaks some English. We highly reccommend it.
Paul J. Morris
Oradell, NJ USA Mon 06/02/2008

"Highlight of our Paris visit!" a cooking class with chef Eric
Chef Eric Fraudeau provides a wonderful venue in which to experience Paris. The class begins with a short discussion regarding food preferences of the participants. Once a few menu ideas are agreed upon, Eric leads the way around the neighborhood shops to collect ingredients - meat, fish, fruits, vegetables, stinky cheese, and bread. This was probably my favorite part of the class - next to eating what we fixed! Eric was very receptive to questions and observations that I'm sure he hears all the time. Back at the school, everyone contributes to the preparation of the different courses. The flow of the class is neither leisurely nor frantic. It's just right. Culinary skill level is a non-issue. If you can chop onions like a food channel champ, you can be the class show-off. But even if your home-cooking is mostly "add water", Eric will have you feeling confident with a sharp knife in your hand in no time. You will not be disappointed with the results - our meal was fantastic. Do it! www.cooknwithclass.com
cathy
dallas, tx USA Tue 05/27/2008

Ritz Escoffier- Cooking Class
Gave my son a class at this famous Paris cooking school for his 18th birthday. He took one of their "Pastry 7-9" classes, but they have a large variety to choose from (online registration). There was a translator for him and everything was hands-on involvement. He loved it.
Nancy
Mars, PA USA Sat 05/24/2008

Les Cocottes de Christian Constant
Had incredible meals at this reasonable-priced, innovative restaurant of Christian Constant. Located near Cafe Constant (7th) but very modern bistro with long bar and high tables. Menu is all in French but waiters helpful as long as you appreciate that their English is so much better than your limited French. Must have chocolate dessert. A gem!
Penny
Boston, MA USA Wed 04/30/2008

Cooking Class in Paris
I spent a delightful and extremely convivial afternoon taking a pastry cooking course in Paris with Cook'n With Class (cooknwithclass.com). Based on an on-line search I wasn't sure what to expect but it turned out to be a great experience. Eric Fraudau is a rare item indeed - a talented chef who likes people and enjoys sharing his knowledge and skills. The small numbers make the classes feel very personal and I walked away having acquired some new skills (decadent and delicious desserts and cakes) but also a wonderful additional experience of Paris. Even if not an experienced cook (pastry was my nemesis) you will still acquire some good skills and/or knowledge and won't feel patronised in this environment. An added bonus is that I believe it was great value for money for a 2-3 hr program.
ShellyR
Brisbane, Qld Australia Tue 04/22/2008

A world in a Pan really delivers
Just came back from beautiful Paris and had such a wonderful time thanks to Laura and her "simply cooking" class at A world in a pan. Not only is the food easy to make and incredibly tasty, it also takes place right there in her Parisian apartment in a posh neighborhood! The class is small so everyone gets a chance to really learn, see and participate. We really had the best time and I definitely recommend this to anyone who wants to spend a fun and unique half day in Paris. I really wish I had had more time to take another class with the visit to the nearby farmer's market. www.aworldinapan.com
Caroline
Syracuse, NY USA Sun 04/20/2008

Eating out
While in Paris recently, I stayed in the Pigalle district. Although not many restaurants in the area, the Place de Clichy nearby has many WONDERFUL restaurants to choose from. If staying in Paris outside of the usual spots, consider this area for lodging and dining out. It is much lower in price than some of the more frequented tourist spots.
Leslie
FPO, AE USA Tue 04/08/2008

BEST pain au chocolat ever.
Twenty-five years ago I lived in France for a year. I knew when the patisserie around the corner was baking their bread. Though I've traveled quite a bit, I've never again found pain au chocolat that matched those fresh,hot crusty treats oozing chocolate amidst flaky layers. I've tried them everywhere. Finally, last week while staying at a small hotel in the Loire Valley, our hosts served a beautiful breakfast with a basket of fresh, warm pain au chocolate and croissants, and my search was over! Evidently, the cook bakes them fresh every morning. If you have the chance to stay at La Roseraie in Chenonceaux, you will find a charming 200 year old hotel, friendly hosts, and the best pain au chocolate EVER. Thanks Laurent...we'll be back.
Soeur Linda
Provo, Utah USA Mon 04/07/2008

Market visit and Cooking class
My sweetheart and I are just back from a short (too short) Paris vacation. One of the highlights of our stay was our market visit and cooking class with Laura from A World in a Pan at Auteil. We met at the subway exit, and walked to a wonderful local market. Laura showed us local producers, discussed the different produce, and we chose together what we wanted to have for lunch. The group was small (five) and we all had a chance to participate. The class in her home was fun - but we all felt we had learned a lot. The meal was incredible - and yet so simple to prepare. A plus: She's a great entertainer! Barb
Barb
Chicago, Il USA Thu 03/20/2008

Great cheese shop in Auteil
One cheese shop we highly recommend is Fromagerie d'Auteil, on the rue d'Auteuil in Paris 16. This small shop has a stunning collection of cheeses from all over France. The owner wears a "bleu blanc rouge" ribbon around his neck, which means he has been awarded best cheese expert in a cruel contest! Stop by! It's at number 58 rue d'auteil.
Barb
Chicago, IL USA Thu 03/20/2008

Cook'n with class
My birthday present from my husband was a cooking class in Paris. Lucky for me I found Cook'n With Class with Eric Fraudeau. My husband, daughter and I all took the evening class together. It was a wonderful experience. Our menu Salmon Quiche, Beef Bourguignon all with new techniques, a 6 variety cheese course and nicely selected wine. The cheeses were selected with great care and variety. Cooking is a hobby for our whole family so we are knowledgeable but we were never bored and Eric did answer all our questions. I recommend this class and Eric to all.
Louise,Frank, and Karen Fang
Yorktown Heights, NY USA Mon 03/17/2008

Cook'n with Class is a
One of the things I like to do when traveling is participate in a cooking class. I have done this in Florence, Italy and now, Paris, France. As you can imagine, there are so many cooking schools and classes available, and I made my initial selection based on the information of the web page, and then by the response from the chef, and in this case, chef Eric Fraudeau. I chose the morning cooking class which included a visit to the market. There was no set menu; it depended on what was available in the market and what the class was interested in. Well, it was wonderful. We went to all the markets, picking out the ingredients, deciding on the spot, what to make. It was literally, the butcher, the baker, and the wine maker. Back at the school the fun continued. Sans aprons, we sliced, diced, conversed, and immersed ourselves in a feast of tastes and aromas. The 3 course meal was superb; the interaction with Eric and the other participant fun and informative; there was music in the background; wine on our lips and joy in our souls. Magnifique! Eric's school is in the Montmarte district, so I spent the rest of the afternoon exploring the area and didn't even mind the steep climb to Sacre-Coeur. I had also signed up for Eric's cheese and wine tasting class which was a few days later. At this point I though it would be anti-climatic. What could top the cooking class. ANSWER; The Wine & Cheese Tasting. Nine cheeses; 3 wines; assorted condiments, sweet, spicy, and tangy; fruits; nuts; and of course the very affable Eric Fraudeau. Delicieux! I think Cook'n With Class should be on everyone's Paris to-do list.
Barbara Flaxman
Norwalk, CT USA Sun 03/09/2008

Great Time Cooking
My wife Ellen is very much into cooking - I am just into enjoying what she cooks. During our last Paris visit, she had booked (follwoing your advice) cooking classes at A World in a Pan and Cordon Bleu. I was planning to go to a cafe and stroll in the city while waiting for her. When she mentioned to Laura from a World in a Pan that I was in Paris too and on my own, she insisted I join the class. It was one of those Paris rainy days, and I said, why not! Well I surely do not regret having done so. I was in charge of the wine service during what I'd call a delightdul meal - it seems that French men's traditional role - and even got to do things in the kitchen and do them right. I had lots of fun and learned a lot too. I recommend taking a cooking class to anyone a bit curious - and stronlgy recommend if it rains!
Charles
Saint Petersbourg, FL USA Wed 03/05/2008

Dining in Paris
This blog talks about a bunch of interesting restaurants and cafes in downtown Paris that seem to be affordable and really appealing. I checked a few of them out when I was in Paris and was really impressed. http://glamorousglobetrotter.blogspot.com/
Vancouver, USA Tue 02/26/2008

sleeping in Dordogne/eating in Nice
If you go to the Dordogne area in France (which you should, absolutely beautiful!), a MUST stay is 'La ferme de tayac'. Located in Les Eyzies de Tayac, 24620, run by Suzanne and Mike Lamars with help from their son, Paul. Wonderful people, great food, be sure to opt for dinner at least one night. (moderate/budget price) If I had only 2 places in France to go again, it would be here and Paris! Accomodations are a remodeled monastary, beautifully done, peaceful area. web site: www.fermedetayac.com. In Nice, have a great dinner at 'Le pain quotidien', located 1, rue Saint Francois de Paul, 06300, Nice, telephone 04-93-62-94-32. The wonderful owner is Stefano Romero, with a gorgeous waiter, Nicholas
Liz
Ridgefield, wa USA Mon 02/04/2008

eating & sleeping in Dordogne area/ eating in Nice
In the Dordogne area of France, a must stay is 'La ferme de tayac', a beautifully restored monastary, with great breakfast and (opt for) a fantastic dinner. The wonderful owners are Suzanne and Mike Lamars with help from son Paul. Located in the small town of Les Eyzies de Tayac (24620), near Sarlot. Website: www.fermedetayac.com. If I only had two places to visit in France again, it would be La ferme de tayac and Paris! In Nice, we had splendid dinner at 'Le pain quotidien', located 1, rue Saint Francois de Paule, 06300, telephone 04-93-62-94-32. Great owner, Stefano Romero with a gorgeous waiter, Nicholas!
liz
ridgefield, wa USA Mon 02/04/2008

Followed your advice for cooking classes in Paris
I followed your advice, dear Food Lovers, and booked a cooking class and market tour (actually I ended up taking THREE classes) with a World in a Pan during my last visit to Paris. I had fun, lots of fun, met fellow travelers who were food lovers like me, and learned a few tips and good recipes (I have tried them back home and they are a great success). I also signed up for a class at Escoffier's at the Ritz and enjoyed the setting, decor, and atmosphere (and learned a few sophisticated tips). Loved both experiences! www.aworldinapan.com www.ritzparis.com/jump_to.asp?id_target=1911&id_lang=2 Bonne appetite!
Martha Ines
LA, CA USA Wed 01/30/2008

Best Expeirerence
I'm not sure if this is the right spot for this cause I don't have the name of the place we actually ate at, but go to Pau, go to Pau, go to pau, go to Pau!! At the base of a castle and in the alleys that ran between the buildings and under the bridges there is a resturant district that can only be discribed as "that scene from that movie"; brick and coble-stone, street performers (that were not annoying or in your face for tips), the food was incredible, and the people working knew less English than we did French and would make anyone wonder why everyone thinks the French are rude.
Grant
Baton Rouge, La. USA Tue 01/29/2008

great food, including vegetarian
My husband and I discovered a wonderful Lebanese restaurant, Sous le Cedre, at 15, rue de Babylone, 75007, Paris. It's family run with great food, including vegetarian options. There is a cozy dining room in back. Friendly atmosphere and the best food we had in Paris!
LR
USA Sun 01/27/2008

Great Secret Restaurant in Loire
We were lucky enough to stumble across this little gem of a restaurant, Auberge de Trois Marchand, in the tiny town of Herbault, about 10 miles from Blois. We were shocked to discover the restaurant has a website, http://www.restaurant-herbault.com/. The food was amazing and inventive! It was far superior to anything we had in Paris and much less expensive. We were the only non-natives in the restaurant, and the staff speaks no English, but we managed to get by just fine with a little pointing and frequent "mercis". Enjoy!
John
Seattle, WA USA Sat 01/26/2008

cooking school paris
We took part in the morning cooking experience led by Chef Eric in Paris, and found it to be a real delight. He was very accommodating to the varied likes and dislikes of the class members, and thus we collectively came up with a lovely menu while we stood at the metro stop near his school. Our shopping experience at the fresh food markets in the neighborhood was unlike any we had enjoyed before, and Eric was very helpful in teaching us how to make good food selections in a French market. The class itself was partly a cooking lesson and partly a social interaction with a fun group of people. We had a blast, ate a divine meal, and learned a little bit along the way. Plus we now have several recipes to add to our toolkit. We would highly recommend this class to anyone who loves to cook, loves to eat or just loves to meet great people. You can find it at:www.cooknwithclass.com
cathy
Mineapolis, Mi USA Wed 01/23/2008

Cafe Constant - 7e arrond. - Paris
While we were in Paris in October 2007, we stopped in (without reservations) at the Cafe Constant - 139, Rue St Dominique in the 7th - a short walk from our hotel on rue Cler. It is 2 doors down from Chef Constant's very expensive Le Violon D'Ingres. IT WAS THE ABSOLUTE BEST FOOD WE HAD IN PARIS!! My husband had lamb and beans and I had duck with rice. Out of this world! and at about 1/3 the price of the really high end restaurants for very high end food! The whole meal including a glass of wine and coffee was well under $100 euro. We will absolutely be back, and strongly recommend this place to anyone (although, I'd call for reservations if you don't want eyes rolled at you!).
Emily
Portland, OR USA Mon 01/21/2008

Best Kept Secret in the 7th
Try the pain traditien at the bakery-cum-cafe at the corner of Avenue de la Bordonnais and Rue de Monttessuy about a half-block north of the Eiffel Tower. It was just over a euro in mid-2007. Wonderful when fresh!
WB
Upper Midwest, WI USA Fri 01/18/2008

Les Abeilles
We have stayed several times in the village of Sablet in Provence. Last time, we ate at a new restaurant that is recommended on Patricia Wells Website, Les Abeilles. It was wonderful. My husband had pigeon (he is very adventerous) and I had lamb. The entire meal was lovely, and we sat in the courtyard to eat, as did everyone else. If you google the name, there is a website with details. I heartily recommend this place.
Sue
Springfield, VA USA Thu 01/17/2008

Nicolaus Wine Shoppe
We spent four days in Paris. Two nights we ate at Nicholas' Wine Shop in the Bercy Village. It started serving early and was still open on a Sunday at 10 pm. Most Nicholas' Wine Shops just sell wine, but this one had a restaurant as well. Each item had suggested wine by the glass from 2-5 Euros. The escargot and cod with mashed potatoes were particularly good
Thea Sinclair
Hickory, NC USA Tue 01/01/2008