"These are a few of my favorite things..." Restaurants and Bistros: Paris, France

by Sharon Richards

I've experienced many delicious meals in Paris over the past number of years: from restaurants and bistros, to boulangeries and cafés, in an assortment of arrondissements throughout the city. For my friends, family and fellow SoulStrollers, here are a 'few of my faves' for your perusal, sampling and upcoming adventures.

Frâiche - Thanks to my husband, Dave Richards, for introducing me to this delicious restaurant in the 10th.  Highlights for me are the innovative cuisine, female chef, and friendly staff. The food is delicious, savory and an all around delight for the tastebuds. We've dined from the à la carte menu as well as the menu découverte. Reservations required.

L'Escudella -  My husband and I discovered this restaurant in the 7th when our airbnb was around the corner. Innovative cuisine with a variety of ingredients and spectacular desserts. I particularly enjoy the taste, presentation, attentive staff and french conversation. Reservations recommended.

La Regalade St. Honoré - Head here if you're craving country paté and Grand Marnier Soufflé. Located in the 1st, this restaurant serves classic French food with a twist. Friendly staff, excellent escargot, as well as fish and meat dishes. Your meal begins with a long rectangular container filled with country paté, cornichons, moutard and bread. Help yourself to as much, or as little, as you please. Reservations required.

Willi's Wine Bar - Located in the 1st, this is an tasty choice for lunch or dinner. From duck to fish, innovative salads to tasty desserts. Friendly staff, superb wine list, english and french. I particularly enjoy strolling through the Palais Royal either before or after a meal. Reservations not required for lunch, recommended for dinner.

Au Bon Accueil- My personal favorite for celebrations with friends, family, and SoulStrollers. This classic French restaurant, a few blocks from the foot of the Eiffel Tower, serves delicious french cuisine, and is meticulously overseen by Laurent and Sebastien. Excellent wine list, 3 course prix fix, in a lovely setting. In the evening, every hour, on the hour, you can step outside to watch the Eiffel Tower sparkle her 5 minute magic. Reservations required, 7th arrondissement. Open Monday to Friday for lunch and dinner.

Boutique yam'Tcha - A friend shared this via the Netflix series: Chef's Table, France. A tasty blend of Franco/Chinois cooking, the boutique is around the corner from the female chef lead restaurant: Yam'Tcha. I've ordered bao's to go from the take out window as well as dined inside the small boutique on weekends for lunch and dim sum. Located in the 1st.

Le Petit Cler - Craving an open faced croque madame, escargot, salad, special of the day? Then this is the spot for you. Located in the 7th, along Rue Cler, this bistro serves delicious food, has a friendly staff and a nice blend of locals and tourists. I've dined here solo, along with family and friends for either lunch or dinner.

Coinstot Vino - Thanks to Messy Nessy Chic for this recommendation in the 2nd. I ate here for the first time February, 2018. Located in the Passage des Panoramas, this is a fun spot for a glass of wine, lunch or dinner. Tables are close together with a limited but savory menu. Delicious fish for lunch, along with a glass of red wine and a bustling atmosphere with primarily french speaking patrons.

La Cave Gourmande - Craving boeuf bourguignon? Fun, small, classic french bistro on Rue Des Martyrs in the 18th. Hearty portions along with friendly service, helpful staff, good pricing and a mix of tourists and locals.

Les Philosophes - Hungry and strolling in the Marais? Fancy salad, pasta, fish, omelette? Then this is your spot. Busy, friendly, tasty food and friendly service. Located in the 4th.

Du Pain et des Idées - Quite possibly my all time favorite boulangerie (and I enjoy quite a few). I will metro, walk, velib and/or 'faire du jogging' for a delicious escargots du pistache from here (pastry in a snail shape). They are also known for their chausson aux pommes, croissants, and variety of baguettes and loaves of bread. Located in the 10th, Canal St. Martin.

For my readers, friends, family, SoulStrollers and potential visitors to Paris, "Salut, may you enjoy savoring, sampling and tempting your tastebuds."

Thanks as well to Paris by Mouth, Girls Guide to Paris, and The Fork for your helpful tips, reviews and recommendations.