Traditionally a Parisian restaurant was always a low-key place to dine but these days you’ll find either upscale or trendy Parisian restaurants depending on your interpretation of the word bistroidomie. A shortened version of bistroidomie, bistro is an expression of gastronomy that combines the best food worthy of fine chefs with the comparatively inexpensive pricing of a typical bistro. The term has even been used by some economists to describe the hip cafes and bars that dot the center of most neighborhoods. A good example of such a venue is La Dolce Vita in Paris’s fashionable Latin Quarter. Another popular concept in French cuisine is a tapas bar. This is essentially a table placed in front of the wine list that sells only the best vintages.
Of course, no discussion of Paris dining can be complete without mentioning the famous Parisian baguettes. Lovers of good food will be surprised to find they don’t actually eat bread too often in Paris! In fact, baguettes are much more popular in Paris as an alternative to the ubiquitous greasy slice of a loaf of French bread that most Parisians have grown accustomed to seeing. For those who don’t have a baguette in their kitchen, consider some of the other great paris food guides that have been written.
In particular, chef Joao Torto has written a very well-loved Parisian cookbook called Tortellini. It’s a must for any serious chef to own a copy. In Torto’s book, you’ll find suggestions on how to make some of the best things you can eat in Paris, both for a fancy dinner in the city or a simple breakfast on the run. Torto also gives wonderful hints about how to combine certain tastes and textures that may be missing from your typical French food.
For example, tortellini is a variation on the sandwich that many people have heard of, but few have ever tried. The great thing about tortellini is that it can be made with so many different ingredients that it’s possible to make a completely new version of it each day. In fact, Torto’s latest book, Tortellini, offers suggestions on how to tweak this popular dish so it’s possible to use all sorts of fillings, meats, cheeses, and vegetables to create new variations. For example, instead of using ham, many chefs now use chicken or salmon for the filling.
Another important part of a good Parisian meal is beer. Many of the best Parisian restaurants offer wine tours, and these trips often include tasting the wines along with a meal or two. These tours are a great way to learn about the different types of red, white, and rose wines that are produced in the region, as well as to find a good wine that matches the food perfectly. In fact, there is actually a wine club that is solely based in Paris that you can join. While you’re there, you’ll get the chance to try some of the most exotic wines on the planet!
Of course, no Parisian meal would be complete without at least one of the city’s famous desserts. One of the best things about Paris food markets is that there are always plenty of baked desserts to choose from, including chocolate cakes and rich pastries. A paris food guide will tell you which bakery shops have the best selections, and if you really want to experience Paris to the fullest, you should make a day of it and hit as many of these stores as possible. Not only is it a fun activity that will save you money, it’s a great way to spend an afternoon while learning a little bit more about this wonderful part of the city.
If baking isn’t your thing, and you’d rather go to a nice old fashion French restaurant for a quiet night out, you’ll also find plenty of great Parisian restaurants to choose from. Some are even located right in the heart of Paris itself, so if you don’t mind walking a little further, you’ll be able to grab a seat at the table. Parisian dining can also be found all across the city in its many fancy restaurants and bistros that are open all day. Many of these restaurants offer special dinner menus that feature only the freshest ingredients and the most luxurious settings. You might want to consider one of these restaurants during your visit to Paris, as they’re sure to provide you with a beautiful meal that will leave you coming back for more!
The perfect place to start out your Parisian tour is with a visit to the Restaurant du Monde, which is housed in the Etoile quarter of the city. This fabulous restaurant has been named by both Rachael Ray and Anthony Bourdain, so it’s a pretty safe bet that it’s something you want to try when you get a chance. As part of the restaurant’s healthy menu, diners are encouraged to select a leisurely three course meal at their leisure. The chef stands by the tabletop waiting upon each diner’s order, and rarely if ever does the table become empty before another order comes in. No matter what your gastronomic desires may be, this is definitely the place you want to be. You might even decide to check out the other great restaurants mentioned throughout this article!
