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Stranded in Paris: How to Take Advantage of Every Extra Moment

globe-500All photos by Maggie Battista, except where noted

The volcanic eruption in Iceland has changed my (and likely your) travel plans pretty dramatically. I was supposed to be back with the husband in cold and rainy New England but am instead stranded in bright and sunny Paris. Despite feeling pretty helpless, as you may imagine, I am not getting much sympathy from friends and family. Taking the bull by the horns, I have decided to make the most of every extra moment in this perfect city. I’m sharing my five-step plan with you, with the hopes that it may help those of you also stranded in Paris or anywhere in Europe.

laiterie-0276-500

1. Revisit your favorite restaurant and hope for a sweet homecoming. I’ve visited some fabulous restaurants during my stay in Paris, only to be warmly welcomed (most of the time) upon my second visit. The staff at Le Miroir, Glou and, especially, Le Pure Café have been attentive, sweet and delighted by my return visits. However, I only just discovered my favorite restaurant in Paris a few days ago. La Laiterie Sainte Clotilde (64 Rue de Bellechasse 75007 Paris, Tel: 01 45 51 74 61) is a little neighborhood joint, only four blocks from my flat, run by an unlikely duo – she’s an experienced grandmother-like host, he’s a young, cool bartender/server. Together, they run an efficient, candle-lit, warm diner that whips up nine seasonal comfort dishes (three entrees, three plats, three desserts) and easy, affordable wine. I felt so at home here, so much so that I’m hoping a return trip will ease my travel plan pain. If it doesn’t, I’m pretty certain a return trip to my favorite Paris wine bar, Le Baron Rouge, will do the trick. Wine cures all ills, right?

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Posted in Food, Parisian Living, Shopping, Travel | 6 Comments »

In Celebration of Lunch: Top 5 Prix-Fixe Menus in Paris

Café des Musées - MatinSoirCafé des Musées – MatinSoir

For Parisians, lunch is where it’s at. Breakfast usually consists of coffee and cigarettes (and maybe a tartine), and weekday dinners are often simple affairs as well. But lunch is the moment when many kick back and enjoy every last second before returning to the office. Weekday lunches can extend to 1.5 hours and weekend lunches are nearly interminable. Both often involve wine, philosophizing, and simultaneously savoring / complaining about life (a finely tuned Parisian art). But unlike dinner, you then have all afternoon to walk, nap, or work it off. In case you couldn’t tell: I am a fan of lunch.

table-glasses-miroirLe Miroir – Maggie Battista

More importantly, lunch is also the best time to sample some of Paris’ best cuisine at reasonable prices, as many restaurants offer a prix-fixe lunch menu that highlights the day’s specials. While your options are limited, they will likely feature the freshest, most seasonal ingredients. So kick back and relax, knowing that you are in gastronomically capable hands. My top 5 picks are as follows. Continue Reading »

Posted in Food, Restaurant Reviews | 11 Comments »

Le Miroir – Authentic French Bistro Food in Montmartre

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Finally a neigborhood bistro in Montmartre!  I can now stumble down my 5 flights of stairs and walk around the corner and experience Paris bistro dining at its best. Le Miroir serving crusty bread, fresh fish, meat and produce is a wonderful spot for a long lunch or a charming dinner. I enjoy their authentic French dishes with a twist, homemade desserts, friendly service and daily specials. Tucked into a small side street in Montmartre, the restaurant’s simple decor and cozy ambiance make for an ideal stop for a a meal in the heart of one of the best neighborhoods in Paris. Le Miroir aims to please and pleased I most certainly was.

moresdessertmiroir

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Posted in Food, Restaurant Reviews | 9 Comments »