Snails at L’Escargots Montorgueil

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It’s a cliche for sure, but escargots (snails) really are a staple of French cuisine, usually served as an appetizer. You can get them at any Paris bistro, brasserie or restaurant that serves traditional French fare. But if you’re interested in making a meal of snails, head to L’Escargots Montorgueil at the base of the fantastic market street Rue Montorgueil. The 182-year-old restaurant is an institution, both for Parisians and visitors alike. Continue Reading →

Best Cold-Weather Comfort Food: Cassoulet!

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While the U.S. is stuck in the deep freeze, I’m thinking about my favorite cold-weather comfort foods: mac and cheese, chicken pot pie, potato-cheddar soup. But the tastiest and most comforting comfort food I’ve ever eaten is French cassoulet, a white-bean stew with duck confit, sausage and bacon baked in a thick sauce, and then topped with bread crumbs and browned under the broiler. Delish! Continue Reading →

Where Do You Go in Paris When It’s Hot? Berthillon!

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It’s hot here in SoCal this week — hotter even than the worst days of last summer. And that has me thinking of my favorite place in Paris to cool off – the famed Berthillon ice cream emporium. The products here are all natural – no chemicals, artificial sweeteners or stabilizers – and are shipped to restaurants throughout the region. But the real treat is visiting the shop on the Ile Saint Louis. The ice creamery offers up to 30 flavors per day, and can be had in cones, cups or – if you visit the tea room next door – delectable sundaes! Continue Reading →

I Always Say “Oui” to Charcuterie

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Whenever I’m in Paris, I indulge in charcuterie platters as often as I can. Continue Reading →

Cost-Cutting in One of the Most Expensive Cities

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According to a new Economist Intelligence Unit Worldwide Cost of Living Survey, Paris is the second most-expensive city in the world in which to live. There’s no doubt that Paris isn’t cheap. But the City of Light can be much more affordable if you know where to shop, when to dine, which museums to visit, and so on. Here are 10 tips you, as visitors to the City of Light, can embrace to lower your expenditures while still enjoying a full, fantastic Parisian experience. Continue Reading →