Hungry? Paris’ Semaine du Goût (taste week) Turns 20

Now that Paris Fashion Week is over, we can all get back to what we really love… food. Paris’ 20th annual Semaine du Goût (“Taste Week”) kicked off on Saturday and runs through next Sunday, the 18th. During this annual event, Paris becomes even more food-focused than it normally is, celebrating its culinary traditions and spotlighting up-and-coming talent.

Photo courtesy of participating restaurant – www.lessaveursdeflora.com

During this week, French foodies (chefs, farmers, artisans, writers, and restaurateurs) band together to celebrate the French gastronomic heritage and to pass the traditions on. From food and wine tastings to workshops to cooking demonstrations and tours, there are countless events and activities to choose from. Many of the events are targeted at next-generation gourmands (e.g. children), so this is a family-friendly celebration. The Ecole du Cuisine Alain Ducasse abides by the philosophy “It’s never too soon to become a gourmand,” as it offers a workshop for children between the ages of 7 and 12. (Takes place Wednesday, October 14th, 10am-12pm, contact: 01 44 90 50 73).

During this week, many restaurants run special chef’s menus and reduced-price menus for children and students. Participating restaurants include the much-loved Chez L’Ami Jean, Willi’s Wine Bar (an ex-pat institution), L’Epi Dupin, the esteemed Taillevent, and the restaurant at Le Meurice hotel. Make sure to reserve ahead of time and ask about special “Semaine du Gout” menus!

Chicken dish at Taillevent. Photo: David Grunfeld/The Times-Picayune

Many events are free and open to the public. The website is in French, but worth checking anyway for a listing of workshops and participating restaurants in and around Paris.

Written by Tory Hoen for the HiP Paris Blog. Looking for a fabulous vacation rental in Paris, Provence, or Tuscany? Check out Haven in Paris.