First, some background information: On the morning before I moved into ma chambre de bonne, I walked through the surrounding neighborhood to ensure I'd be happy and comfortable here. My first concern was safety since I'd be living by myself in a studio apartment on the 7th floor of a large building. My second concern was convenience. I already knew I'd have Parc Monceau (and its metro stop) literally at my door step, but I had to check out the nearest café, laundromat, grocery store, and ideally, market street. The 17th arrondissement passed my test with flying colors.
So, the following day I made the move. I shared a taxi with a friend of mine who lives a few blocks away. I called my landlord and took the elevator up to his apartment. I listened as he explained which keys were which, and appreciated it when he (1) allowed me to go through his apartment to the back staircase (so I only had to bring my luggage up 3 flights as opposed to 6) and (2) helped me carry some "stuff" (eliminating one of the three trips I'd otherwise have to make). Then I took a deep breath, locked my door for the first time, and went to meet my friend.
Although we were both ravished, we had to run to Monoprix before it closed; I needed to buy the sheets and towels I'd assumed would be provided for me and stock up on a few essential cleaning supplies and groceries. And it's only after I had that we went in search of food. Unfortunately (fortunately?), after ordering a glass of wine and sitting down at the first brasserie we saw, we found out they'd already stopped serving food. It was 9pm. And at 9:20pm, still hungry, I was a little drunk.
Now let me answer their question for you: dinner at L'Auberge Rouge. It was the second brasserie Amy and I happened to stumble upon that first night. I can't remember my exact order, but I had a glass of Bordeaux with braised beef smothered in pesto, herbed carrots and potatoes, and a side salad. Amy's wine order was the same, plus a plate of lemon chicken, tagliatelle with butter, and salad. We also had a basket of French bread on the side, obviously. Sure, I was ridiculously hungry and somewhat under the influence, but I am not kidding when I say this was the most delectable meal. Cheap-ish, too! We only paid about 20 euros each.
