When I think of the best food I've ever eaten, I think about Paris.
I think about breaking through an almost burnt candied sugar into a warm and creamy creme brulée at Les Philosophes, digging into the best steak of my life at Joel Robuchon, eating a country style foie gras pate at Le Polidor and of course, biting into my first unctuous macaron from Pierre Hermé.
I lived in Paris for a year as a teenager and returned after university for 6 months to finish work on a guide book I'm still piecing together in my spare time. I've visited several times since, and even though we've been through our highs and lows, Paris will always have a special place in my heart.
It's the city where I matured into the young woman I am today, where I shed tears, sang in the streets, and experienced some of my best as well as some of my loneliest memories.
When I walk the streets today my eyes gloss over thinking of some of the darkest moments, or the good moments with a friend I lost years ago.
And even though sometimes I hate the attitude, the divide between classes and the cold gray days, it always manages to seduce with its charm. Nowhere else in the world has ever offered me such a large gallery of everything I love: food, fashion, art. I can't help but love a place where pastries are made with care, scarves are tied with grace, and meals are eaten with appreciation and elegance. Now, pour yourself a glass of wine and butter yourself some bread, because you may get hungry as I share my favourite bites of Paris
Best Steak: Joel Robuchon and Entrecote
Best Comfort Food: Le Polidor
I have been going to Polidor since I was little. This cozy French restaurant first opened it's doors in 1845 and hasn't changed much since. The food is simple and served on long wooden tables that you'll share with strangers. Make the most of it, share a big pitcher of wine, and don't skip dessert. The bathrooms are also from another time, you've been warned.
Best Macarons: Pierre Hermé
While the tourists often flock to La Durée for macarons, a more moving experience awaits you at Pierre Hermé. Known as the Picasso of pastries, Pierre Hermé has a talent of taking food to another level. His macarons, in flavours that range from traditional chocolate to blackcurrant and crème brûlée, eating these delicacies is an experience I think everyone should have at least once. Best Candy Store: L'Etoile d'Or
Best Speciality Food Store: Bon Marche Epicerie et G.Detou
Best Turkish Food: Bosphore
Okay. Who's ready to escape to Paris with me? We'd only need a one-way ticket. We could blame Gillian Young and the delectable suggestions above. How incredible would that be?! Right. Well, admittedly, now is not the best time for me either. Until then, why not participate in the Plates from Around the World series? Simply email me your favorite foodie memory place with a description and photos. That, and/or have a fabulous weekend. I'll check in again soon.