This trip came up on rather short notice!

Have flights...not easy to get what you want. I hate all airlines!

Have cat reservations and car sitter (hybrids need to be driven or batteries go dead).

Don't know who might be in Paris during this time..never a bad time to be in Paris!

Will go and put my packing together..packing very light!

a bientot...

Joan

Toulouse this time?

We'll miss you again! Pack warm clothes---it's snowing there tonight. Just had an email from a friend with a picture of snowy rooftops.

We will be there Joan. We are coming from Sicily March 12-17.

I knew I would miss Jim and Pat..not warm enough for you!! I did look at the weather today and it is chilly! I looked at some extended weather and about the 1st it gets much warmer. It will be fine.

Cathinjoetown..maybe not the best time to go to Toulouse??

Lisa - nice to hear you will be there when I am there. Going to try for Reed again? I just emailed Catgherine to tell her when I arrive. It will be a Monday and she is not open on Monday so thought myabe she would like to join me for the late lunch hours beginning at 2:30 at Cafe Constant. I arrive at 11:15 so that should work out well.

a bientot..Joan

Hi! We will be in Paris during the beginning of your trip, leaving Paris on Feb. 28. I always enjoy following your threads and have followed so many of your restaurant recs. would love to meet you.

Joan, what can you tell me about reservations at Reed? I just read several glowing reviews and would like to dine there when I'm in Paris in July. I'm wondering if I need to make a reservation far in advance or if I can reserve when I am there (we have two weeks).

I'm looking forward to reading your next trip report!

Debra

Will miss you once again, as we are going very end of March or early April, for a month, and not spending time in Paris except at the very end of the trip. Sorry...

Slave to new job....wish I could.

Yestravel: Would be nice..lunch, or something?

Mellen: well, we do have Groundhog Day celebration in 2014..counting on you to be there!

Debra, here is Catherine's e-mail address: catherine.reed@wanadoo.fr She has been receiving a lot of nice reviews, and in July might be busy, so think it might be a good idea to send her an earlier e-mail..just to be sure.

Denise...yes a slave to new job!!

I am packed now. Only 1 small bag to check and my roller laptop that has room for toilet articles and other. I had put clothes out on bed and when it was full, just quit packing! Trip insurance, pick up euros, call cc companies and get cat prescription..made inter-shuttle reservation, and that is it!!

a bientot....

Joan

Joan,

It will still be cold in Toulouse, temps this coming week are highs of 6 to 8, lows of 1 C. I wouldn't rush down if you'll be back in warmer weather, as I'm sure you will!

Wish I could get up there but we're in the process of buying some land adjacent to ours so conserving our cents or centîmes!

Have a wonderful stay!

Too bad you can't make a short trip to Paris. I see A/F has some that they call mini fares within France..you might check..

a bientot...

Joan

Joan,

We are absolutely going to try Reed again. I will e-mail Catherine when the time gets closer. We are staying in the 15th and will eat at a neighborhood place, Pizza Flora, that night. I will try for Wednesday or Thursday maybe. We cannot wait. We had to cancel our trip last March so this is extra special for us. Have fun and I can't wait to read your reports. They keep me in Paris when I'm not there.

Lisa

Joan - that would be great. I have an email address of yours from 2010 when you were helping me with some reservations. Is that still a good email?

@lrock - I wanted a reservation at Reed for my upcoming trip in Feb. I sent an email and didn't hear back from her for over two weeks. Since I hadn't heard back after a week or so, the person we are renting an apt from called the restaurant for me and got us a reservation.

Pizza Flora looks cute!

My 2010 email address is probably good..is it charter?

Surprised that Catherine was so slow getting back to you. I will tell her!!

a bientot...

Joan

Just had an email from Catherine Reed..I had told her that I was arriving on 2/11..she is closed on Monday so asked if she would like to meet me at Cafe Constant at 2:30..they begin their late lunch period then. My flight arrives at 11:15, so that should be great! Also told her to ask Catherine Constant to join us if she sees her. Need to drop her a note that I will be returning soon!

Things are jelling....

a bientot...

Joan

I have your email address with yahoo.com. I will try to send you an email now.

Does this mean you never went to Toulouse. Tried to get feedback on your last query, but never had an answer

Hi Joan--All of Paris will be happy you're back.

And I'm not kidding!

Please enjoy yourself for us,

AZ

Lucky you---I'd go to Paris anytime. How about a dog to cat sit and then your cat could drive your car---haha!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QjFuwwUF0Qk

I'll be looking forward to your TR and food photos.

yestravel...you probably have an old yahoo address..you can send it to chitchat393@yahoo.com

Carlux...no, I did not get to Toulouse...I started catching what I though a bad cold and cancelled the trip...the cold then did not really develop. Sorry that I did not get back to you earlier.I will now have to plan another time. Do want to go.

AZ..always fun to be in Paris....

a bientot...

Joan

Thanks Joan. I'll send Catherine Reed an email, and follow up with a phone call if necessary. I stayed on rue Amélie a few years ago and love that street, so I'm especially looking forward to eating at Reed.

I also noticed that you are still using Shuttle Inter - that was going to be a later question for you. I've liked them and so I'll use them again this summer. I probably will only book from Paris to CDG; I hate to make the drivers wait for our arrival from America because the flights are so unreliable. One poor driver had to come back to the airport multiple times to fetch us after getting the run-around from AA on our arrival, which ended up being five hours later than scheduled. I will say that those Shuttle Inter drivers do go above and beyond in the line of duty!

Thanks again for all of your help, and bon voyage! I'm looking forward to my own trip in July because I'm going to be staying on the back side of the École Militaire in a slightly new part of town. I think we'll be right down the street from your friends at Flirt'The and so we'll have to pay them a visit.

Debra,

Amelie is a quiet street. One of the reasons that it took some time for Catherine...not a busy street so it had to be 'found'!

Yes, I use Inter-Shuttle all the time. They are super. Have used them in town, too. My last arrival was late and I felt badly, too.

You may be stayhing near Pl de Breteuil? There is one of the Le Grand Bistros there. Nothing else, but it. It fills up very fast. I think everyone in the neighborhood must eat there! I went for lunch. When you leave the bus is right outside.

Yes, you will have to visit with Florent.

a bientot..

Joan

tpayt..did not reply to the dog/cat driving....cute! There are so many cute animal things out there! Fun to look at.

Think will be going with Lisa..lrock..to cassenoix on the 12th. I like it..full of character and 99% French guests!

Need to get weekender to drop in to Paris while I am there..will get F&M to drop him a note, too..he missed 110 Taillevent last time. I'm sure that he would like it!

a bientot...

Joan

All set with lrock for dinner at CasseNoix on the 12th. They will come by my apt. for a glass of champagne and we will then walk over to CasseNoix. Will be nice!

a bientot...

Joan

Sue B..Now that you know I will be there, you can do Naples and then on to Paris..Faugeres Mar 2 to Mar 12...we would have fun..that we know!!

a bientot...

Joan

We're looking forward to meeting you and having dinner at CasseNoix!

Dona,

You and Alan may like to make a Valentine's Day reservation at Les 110 de Taillevent. Give tme my name that I highly recommended to you. You want to sit at the bar (very comfortable for the evening). The staff behind the bar mosst interesting and fun.

a bientot...

Joan

Sue,
With Naples for 2 months this year, it won't work. Will be seeing you for our first annual Groundhog Day in 2014!!

a bientot..

Joan

Joan,
You are right that it will not work for this year!!!I will hope to celebrate in 2014 with you. We are in a deep freeze here tonight. It will be nice to leave. Am looking forward to following you next month..

Sue B

Hi Sue,
Yes, I see that you are in a deep freeze! Hope you will be able to get out for your flight soon. You will be glad to get to a warm climate!

2014 with 1st Annual Groundhog celebration will be fun. I will be discussing it while there this trip.

Took a look a Davoli menus for the week and I may be picking up some things there this trip. Always many goodies. Jeusselin across the street, too.

Need to check out any thoughts for Michelin starred dining and get any reservations off for them.

a bientot...

Joan

Just a bit interesting..friend weekender just mentioned a friend in Paris..with the snow...who did the Michelin stars well yesterday..beginning with the 3 star Le Grand Vefour for lunch and then drinks at FS George V and The Bristol! A real 'starry' day, I would say!

a bientot...

Joan

Thanks for the suggestion of VD at Les 110 de Taillevent. We are still thinking about whether we will go out or just stay in that evening. But we certainly do want to try Les 110 de Taillevent. It's open on Sundays, correct?

Yes, 110 Taillevent is open 7 days. Fun spot. Sunday might be a good day to go. If you email send it to the attention of:
Olivier Le Guyader, Directeur...mention my name that I have highly recommended them. You want to sit at the bar!

a bientot....
Joan

Thanks! will do!

Something that I have wondered about..has anyone compared dining at a US Michelin 3 star with a Paris Michelin 3 star?

It would seem that I would prefer ones in Paris.

The joy of our dining is not just for something to eat..it is the whole scene, decor, ambience, service, clientele..add great food and you have it all! And the company, of course! I notice all the above in the small places that I go for a simple meal. I do the same at home.

Looking forward to some new spots and the joys of familiar places.

a bientot...

Joan

Ah Joan..how wonderful that you are heading back to Patis! I only wish we were, too.

We think and speak so often of our great Thanksgiving gathering with you in Paris!

Can't wait to read of your upcoming adventures.

Byrd

Hi Byrd,

How nice to hear from you. I do hope all is well with you and your family.

Why don't you plan on our first annual Groundhog Day celebration in 2014. We would have fun, as on Thanksgiving!

a bientot...

Joan

I think many of us go to Paris and may be introduced there to the coffee machines..Nescafe, or others. They enjoy so much that they are a must do to buy when returning home.T hey have always been in the apartments that I stay in, but I would continue to go out for breakfast and never use them.

When I returned home in Dec. I decided to look at some of them. I only wanted a small one. I decided in the Verismo and bought one at the local Williams-Sonoma that was also on sale. I am enjoying it. I buy the International Delight dairy creamers and add to the milk and also a super little hand battery operated frother (Aerolatte, also W/Sonoma).

I had been fixing my own breakfast at home for some time before the Verismo, but am now enjoying it, too. Verismo pods are not interchangeable with others..i.e. you can't buy them in grocery stores. I buy at W/S. I am susrprised that any of them are interchangeable.

Now when I go to Paris soon, I will use the coffee machine in my apartment. Just go across the street to the great bakery on r. St. Dominique! Does this qualify that Joan is now cooking??

a bientot....
Joan

My sister has a Keurig (she lives in NC). I loved it and the choice of coffees available. Can't get it in France. We have a Bosch Tallisimo but I don't like the way it brews or the choice of coffees. We use it when one of us wants a single cup.

So many of them are able to use the Keurig pods and they ae readily available in the Franch grocery stores..or, Paris anyway. I would think they you would be able to buy one in France.

The Verismo is made by Starbucks.

a bientot...

Joan

No, searched online for any country in EU for Keurig machine. Nada, rien, etc.

If you see one in Paris, I would come up to get it. Not really as we haven't seen Keurig pods either and have checked large shops such as Leclerc and Carrefour. Maybe it's because we're in the sticks.

If we could find the pods, they aren't compatible with Bosch. Hardly a huge problem but annoying.

Husband says the Keurigs are loss leaders for the pods--Green Mtn Coffee, Newman's, Starbucks, etc.

Will just have to feel virtuous as I toss my coffee grounds in the bio filters on the compost heap!

Hi,

I just googled and tried to find out more of where/if you could purchase a Keurig in France. Not much luck.

I then checked the Starbucks Verismo that I have. You can purchase in France. I only pulled up Paris. I like mine.

You should be able to find one of the many makes in your area, or so I would think.

a bientot....

Joan

OK, your best bet is probaably Nespresso. They are good, too! Several places listed in Paris for them.You might give them a try...

a bientot....
Joan

Thanks, Joan.

Funny, funny!

Florent sent me a message that I was on French TV!! I went to Pierre Meneau's Crom 'Exquis restaurant(son of Marc Meneau-Vezelay, l'Esperance)with Catherine Constant and another Paris friend. They were doing some photo work in the restaurant and had conversation with Catherine, etc. It seems that they included us in there photos. I did not notice this was happening. I am a French TV star!! Ha!

a bientot...

Joan

Now that you have been on French television and all, perhaps this may be the time to take up cooking with the goal of becoming the next Julia Child. I know this is a really big, big stretch and I am not holding my breath but will just throw this out here.

a bientot,

Just found your thread, Joan! I'm glad you received the chance to return again and don't have to wait until next year. I can hear the excitement in your voice and can't wait to take notes for my fall trip.

~Roberta

Fat chance of that, weekender!!

I see Davoli has been temporarily closed due to some possible Salmonella!! I was thinking of using them this trip, too!

Glad to hear from you Roberta....

a bientot...

Joan

Joan,

I love the idea of the Groundhog Day party! I told John, and now we have another special reason to go back to Paris!

We are all fine, and granddaughter Hannah is now a college sophomore!

I look forward to hearing all about your next adventure, as well as about plans for Groundhog Day 2014 as they develop.

a bientot,

Byrd (and John and Hannah)

Hi Byrd,So nice to hear that Hannah is now a college sophomore! Please give her my best!

We are going to plan on you for Groundhog Day in 2014!! Please do tell John that we are not eating them!

Must introduce you to Reed, too.

I will be working with Florent and Michael re Groundhog Day, along with Alexandere and Catherine Constant.

We do hope that St. Cirq is going to join us, too!

Also Sue from Green Bay. Weekender, of course!! A really nice group of people/friends who enjoy the same things. Will be fun!

I am all set for departure on 2/10...

a bientot...
Joan

I am packed except laptop and ready to go! Took cats today.

I did receive a message that my arrival in Paris is about 2 hours delay, but it shows taking off on schedule...not sure what that means...flying slower, headwind or perhaps needing to take a different track due to storm in NE.

May have a bit of snow in Paris next week, too. The whole world is having crazy weather.

Getting some things lined up. Cafe Constant is having some renovations and due to open about 16th. Davoli has re-opened.

Have dining plans for Tues evening with nice couple..they like charm, good food and will come by my apt. and we have Cassenoix reservations. I am sure they will like it.

a bientot...

Joan

Bon Voyage! Looking forward to meeting you. We take the TGV this am to Paris.

Now it does say flight is taking off two hours late..that answers that question! Maybe they will get things better straightened out today. I will have a long wait in ATL. I will get the Sky Club 1 day pass.. can do it for #25.

Messed up lunch with Catherine Reed with later arrival. We will do it another time. Will go to her restaurant for dinner Friday.

a bientot....

Joan

Bon voyage , Joan........I will be anxious to follow your adventures..

Can't wait to hear about the trip Joan...hopefully as I write this you are winging your way to Paris.

I did arrive and what a horrible messed up last 24+ hours, beginning with Delta advising me 3 days ahead of my ATL departure of it being delayed by 2 hours...will tell all tomorrow. Then finding out that I did NOT pack my power cord for my laptop...had that to take care of upon finding it out upon arrival at apt and connecting it. Dropped all else to take care of it! Now I will have two power cords!!

Delighted to be here with the ET back in my view! Never tiring!

Chilly, but sunny day here.

Will get my Paris little red phone acivated at the Orange store in morning and will drop by to see Florent. A bit of shopping for Dona and Alan's arrival tomorrow evening before we walk over to Cassenoix for our 8:00 reservation. Looking forward to it.

Going to Reed Friday and who knows what in between. Cafe Constant is being re-modeled and will be back in business around he 16th....

I went across the street to Cafe de Mars brasserie and cannot say much about it, but took care of the needs would be about it!

a bientot....

Joan

Woo Hoo Joan you're back. Now i can get my Paris fix until we get there March 12. We leave March 1 for Rome. Wondering how bad the crowds will be now that the Pope has resigned and they have to elect another. Wow!

Bonjour..

My view for my stay..grey or sunny always great!!

http://s6.postimage.org/cp44stold/000_0004_1.jpg

Did some running around to get my little Paris red phone taken care of etc.

Now get ready for the evening...

a bientot...

Joan

Joan,
Have a great time on this trip. The view from your apartment looks familiar, I am trying guess which PP apartment it is. We are still on track for a week in September.

What a great view,have fun!

Fabulous

OK you followers..

What a nice evening. Dona and Alan arrived and we had some sparking Loire wine La Taille aux Loups..quite nice and our pistachios...can't ruin an upcoming good meal with anything heavier!

We had earlyish reservations..8:00 and I think Dona and Alan enjoyed the atmosphere of Cassenoix. We did spend the vening as it is now after 11:00..but that is the way we like in in France and as the French do!!

We discussed lots of travel and dining spots and have many of the same interests etc. Mellen, you have met them in your DC get togethers.

Now for the photos.

Cassenoix with Dona and Alan – 2/12/2013

I missed the Butternut soup that Dona and I had..excellent

Here is Alan’s starter..foix gras

http://s6.postimage.org/xh171k4ox/000_0002_00.jpg

Dona and I had the duck..excellent, so we both thought

http://s6.postimage.org/67ptn23lt/000_0005_2.jpg

Lost Alan’s Steak

Dona and I had for dessert and Alan had cheese

http://s6.postimage.org/hy3r4fwe9/000_0006.jpg

We did have a nice evening!

A bientot…

Joan

HI Joan I have a favour to ask of you. Would you buy me the February issue of Elle magazine? I would certainly appreciate it . You can send it to me when I get home and I will reinburse you. INES DE LA FRANSAGE is on the cover. I had my picture taken with her so would love to have the magazine. I tried to buy it on amazon but could not. Thank you....

Yes, it was a very enjoyable evening...great company and delicious food. Hopefully we can find a time to get together next week.

Up late last night.

Went out for breakfast and walked over to Davoli a bit later to look at goodies.

I bought duck with peaches and sauce...I had some for lunch here in the apartment. Saved half of it, as just oo much!

Cold out.....

http://s6.postimage.org/p7tx0w0ch/000_0001.jpg

a bientot...

Joan

Hi Sue..

I will look for Elle tomorrow!!

a bientot...
Joan

Oh Joan,
I love hearing of your dining experiences. I get lots of restaurants on my list after seeing your pictures.
I will be back in. May.
Where is your apartment with that great view?

Elaine

Joan
You are the Best!!Thank You..

I just made an early morning call to Alain Milliat for a lunch reservation. OK, I have it for 1:00 today.

I am looking forward to giving this a try. I think it might be a good 'discovery'!

Must get dressed and go down below to the bakery for my morning croissants...

a bientot....

Joan

Sue,

I have your Elle!!

a bientot....

Joan

OK...a really nice lunch. Pat/Jim..a find for us... you will enjoy. On the coner of Grennell and Duvivier. I think there had been some sort of funky place before. Big curved top windows...Nice place. Going to go there next Friday for dinner..just need a headcount at the moment.

Dona/Alan..they have Sat/Sun brunch..you might want to think about it with your friends.

Alain Milliat - boutique@alain-milliat.com (0)1 45 55 63 66
Alain Milliat - Lunch

Amuse Bouche

http://s6.postimage.org/7zrz9g1q9/000_0001_1.jpg

Entrée – Foie gras – excellent

http://s6.postimage.org/eriecaqpt/000_0002_3.jpg


Plat – If I am correct it was St Pierre..very nice

http://s6.postimage.org/dqi5n69q9/000_0003.jpg

I was enjoying the place so much that I also had dessert and a café crème

http://s6.postimage.org/usazp9old/000_0004_2.jpg

Also a very pleasant Sancerre.

A rather damp day..drizzle..not too cold.

Stopped by Violon and chatted with Aalexandre. He is off next week skiing...

a bientot...
Joan






Here are some photos:

Joan Thanks for finding Elle for me . I certainly appreciate your trouble and efforts. Many thanks. IT looks like you had a very nice Valentines day lunch. Yum....sancerre is my favorite,,,,, We had heavy rain all day andna 20 degree drop in temps. Pretty cold for southwest florida. I guess it is winter almost everywhere...enjoy Sue

I am sooo far behind on Fodors! Hope you are having a great time.

Had a great dinner at Reed tonight. I will send photos tomorrow........

a bientot...

Joan

Photos from dinner last night at Reed. Always a pleasant evening dining and visiting with Catherine

Reed – Dinner

Great soup..sort of a mashed potatoe

http://s6.postimage.org/c03pzfhkx/000_0001.jpg

My chicken

http://s6.postimage.org/97aifeh8h/000_0002_2.jpg

Boeuf Bourguignon

http://s6.postimage.org/e0yuy0341/000_0003.jpg


Dessert

http://s6.postimage.org/rvx5ggxj5/000_0004_2.jpg


a bientot....

Joan

Another beautiful sunny day in Paris. The outside tables fill up with all enjoying the sunshine.

I took a nice long walk and then ended up at Davoli on rue Cler. Picked up the macaroni/foie gras and some carrots. Does this count that I cooked? I did heat it up! Enjoed it, too...

http://s6.postimage.org/48rlem2td/000_0001_00_2.jpg

a bientot

Joan

Lovely food pictures Joan. We will be there March 12. Heading to Rome March 1 first. I am going to have to e-mail Catherine Reed so that we can definitely have dinner while we were there. Her food is so good. Enjoy Paris!!

Alain Milliat – Brunch

This first photo is only what I put on my plate from a serving table filled with things. You also went downstairs for bread and other goodies t bring back to you table..as often as you would like..

http://s6.postimage.org/hvb59huwx/000_0002_2.jpg

This was an egg that was brought to your table

http://s6.postimage.org/nxirzzjcx/000_0003_2.jpg

This was brought to your table - Duck and Carrots

http://s6.postimage.org/6lifejpvl/000_0004_2.jpg

Dessert too

http://s6.postimage.org/xxdofvum9/000_0005_2.jpg

You also order a bottle of juice from a list with a zillion different choices.
I also had a café creme…

A bientot…..
Joan

The food looks delicious, as always but mostly I am jealous that you were hanging out with Alexandre!

A couple things...

Did the new Italian restaurant yesterday...Les Cocottes today. Always very good..too much food. They boxed up far more than I ate to take home. Daily I pass this undernourised kid looking for handouts..so today I gave him the bag. Don't know how he will eat it, but I am sure he will find a way..Probably best food that he has EVER had!! My good deed!

New little Italian neighborhood restaurant

http://s7.postimage.org/7243kjx7f/000_0001_2.jpg


http://s4.postimage.org/aptekjn7x/000_0002_2.jpg


Today Les Cocottes for Lunch

Very good, but cannot tell you what it was..the red was some salmon

http://s17.postimage.org/mc2v2syxb/000_0003.jpg

This was with veal and excellent, but no way I could possibly eat all that…

http://s18.postimage.org/jjp9tl689/000_0004_2.jpg

a bientot....

Joan

Joan,
Love the pictures as usual. What is the name of the Italian restaurant and where is it located? In the neighborhood? I assume you are somewhere near St. Dominique.

Lunch today at 110 Les Taillevent – with good Parisian friend


http://s16.postimage.org/68vupzodx/000_0001_3.jpg

http://s15.postimage.org/sfymi08x7/000_0002_3.jpg

http://s16.postimage.org/keomoigc5/000_0003_3.jpg

http://s12.postimage.org/rdbcn5o5p/000_0004_3.jpg


http://s16.postimage.org/vraexs3sl/000_0005_2.jpg

Some good wine and good conversation made for a plesant lunch.
My friend will be returning with her husband…

A bientot,

Joan

Hi Waterdog...The Italian restaurant is on corner of General Camou and Rapp. It is OK..clean and new.

You must go to 110 Les Taillevent. Yes I am on corner of Bourdonnais and St. Dom.

Tomorrow night a group will come here and meeet/greet/wine and go down to Alain Milliat on Grenelle..just past rue Cler. You must put that on your list, too. We have been having reat weather...you should be here!!

I am enjoying your pictures...You may be having better weather in Paris than at home. Our daughter is here in florida with us this week. She is glad to be out of wisconsin. Enjoy
Sue

I always enjoy your reports and food displays. Lately I've been looking forward to the dessert photos. Viewing them along with my morning coffee just isn't the same as being in Paris and eating them, but what can you do? I am craving an almond croissant but can't seem to find one in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin!

I should have taken a picture of the dessert next to us yesterday...it was a glass pyramid with each section having something fancy in it..next trip there someone will have to order it...Can't believe that Oconomowoc does not have almond croissants!! Ha!!

Are you getting that bad storm??

a bientot...
Joan

This storm wasn't too bad for us although we've had a lot of snow from day to day.

We're looking forward to Grace Bay Beach in Turks & Caicos a few weeks from now---actually I wish we were leaving today! Even in the islands there is a French bakery near our condo and the owner is from Paris. Also they've opened a new French restaurant called Le Bouchon that has been getting rave reviews. A friend said that if you close your eyes, you'll swear you're in Paris. Since I have a good comparison, I'll check on that and also take a few photos of the food.

Until then I'll be watching for your lovely photos and descriptions.

A Fun Evening at Alain Milliat…..

The group:

http://s2.postimage.org/qk9t91vkp/000_0011.jpg

http://s11.postimage.org/yj6bgvkk3/000_0009_3.jpg

http://s14.postimage.org/qpj83k69t/000_0008.jpg

This was better than it looks! To dip your bread and eat..tasty..

http://s8.postimage.org/kz9jg3bw5/000_0001_2.jpg

So good!

http://s15.postimage.org/6el2bf8iz/000_0002_4.jpg

http://s11.postimage.org/mduwbp9zn/000_0003_2.jpg

http://s12.postimage.org/wsydbvjb1/000_0005_3.jpg

http://s16.postimage.org/pgyim3k5h/000_0006.jpg

The camera shook when taking the boeuf….

We had a long and fun evening. Started at my apartment for all to meet/greet one another over a glass (or 2) of wine and then we walked over to the restaurant. It was a chilly evening! We had a long evening and it was after midnight, I think, when we left the restaurant. Our group must have entertained the whole restaurant. It was NOT the Americans who were loud and noisy..and it was not the whole group..I think can easily be said that Florent (as usual) entertertained all!

W walked back to apartment and had café or tea and visited a bit and I took the group pictures before all decided that the evening must come to an end..I think this was about 1:30!!

We talked about 110 Taillevent for many of us for a soon get together….

A bientot…..

Joan

Wonderful time last night...such good food and delightful company. Loved meeting everyone. Joan certainly knows how to throw a get together. Hope we can all get together again.

It was indeed a wonderful time! We enjoyed meeting Florent, Michael and Amanda. Thanks ever so much, Joan. [Alan]

Sounds like lots of fun....Florent is always the life of the party, i think. He and Mike look well...say hello for me.

The food looks really good. We are working on finally decorating our front living room and I am off to DC and then Vancouver next week. A lot of travel but I don't manage Paris!

Joan,

It looks like you are having a fabulous time. We leave this next Friday for Rome and I was wondering if you have an e-mail or number for Reed so I can make reservations for when we get to Paris. Thank you so much and thanks for the pitures of the food. We are counting down the minutes until we are in Paris. We love Rome but Paris is it for us.

Lisa

It is catherine.reed@wanadoo.fr

When do you arrive in Paris?

a bientot...

Joan

Joan,

We arrive the evening of March 12. We are going to the neighborhood place we like Pizza Flora that night. But we are thinking of Wednesday or Thursday evening for Reed. When do you leave? You are welcome to join us at Reed. We so enjoyed it over Christmas 2011 on your recommendation

Lisa

Hi Lisa,

I am leaving on March 19. Go ahead and enail Catherine Reed for your reservation..never too early..

I may go there this week on Wed. Need to give her a call tomorrow.

Just called Restaura de la Tour for dejeuner for today. I went there last trip and enjoyed it...

a bientot...

Joan

Joan,
I'm admire your stamina and enthusiasm for food and conviviality!
Along with everyone else I'm greatly enjoying your posts. Thanks so much for all the wonderful photos. We are here in Paris through the end of May and you've given us lots of places to try, I'm just hoping the sun comes back, though I must admit I'll take snow over rain!

WTB...enjoying the weather along with me!! Cafe Constant is pretty well finiahed and they do some work in off time. I was by there this morning and who knows they may serve lunch or dinner..not usual for a Monday. I will go for lunch tomorrow!

Think I will call Catherine in the morning and plan for dinner on Wed at Reed.

Will see what weather does as far as planning anything too far away..so many good spots nearby,anyway..Need to get to Deux Abeilles for lunch and also back to Casse Noix...need to wander around for some other new ones..I do know that there have been many closings/new ones opening...

Enjoy you stay!!

a bientot...
Joan

Restaurant de la Tour – rue Desaix

Great soup and great day for soup!!

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I think Sea Bream-mashed potatoes and veggies

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I could not handle dessert….

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This is a nice place….I call it pretty with nice tablecloths etc….not the rustic Café Constant or CasseNoix. A nice mixture of places….

A bientot….
Joan

Joan,

That's a new one for us. Should we give Restaurant de la Tour a try? Please give the two Catherines our regards. So sorry we will miss you but we are enjoying the 82 degree weather here today and are meeting our French teacher at the beach for lunch. Happy travels!

Jim/Pat,

Yes, I think so..a nice mixture. We like the CC and CasseNoix, but also the quieter, more relaxed type places too, now and then. 100% French when I have been there....Casse Noix most of time, too..but since I have been telling people about it???

You will notice many places have closed and talk of some very large places maybe closing soon....like FNAC on Champs Elysees..some other places have opened..I know you will like 100 Les Taillevent and it is open 7 days, nights...I will send you the name of the Directeur for making your reservations! I did send you Florent's address, didn't I?

I know you like the warm weather...this makes you walk faster and is good excercise for you!!

a bientot....

Joan

Joan and for anyone else who might be interested...
Just in case you find yourself in the Marais in need of something sweet, I thought I'd let you know about L'Éclair de Génie which opened recently at 14 Rue Pavée just off Rue Rosier.

The eclairs are spectacular and I've put some pictures up on my blog. the salted caramel butter one was amazing. Maybe I need to go back to try the rose one today? Highly recommended.
http://somuchmoretosee.blogspot.fr/2013/02/the-eclair-is-king.html

WTB....Looks good!! You will need to keep returning to try all!!

Nice to see the sun today. Did go to Cafe Constant for lunch. They are mostly finished with the changes..lots of small stuff now. It is dressed up a bit, now!! I will post the pics soon.

WTB have you given Reed and 110 Les Taillevent a try?

a bientot....

Joan

Photos from lunch today

Café Constant Lunch today


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We did enjoy….

A bientot…

Joan

Hi! Looks delicious. what are the lunchtime hours there? If we got there 1 o r 1:30 would we likely have to wait? May try to get over there for lunch tomorrow. Will let u know if we think we will. Maybe u can pop over for a drink with us. Not sure what will be tomorrow.

After 2:30 would work..they have what they call a late lunch time, too..If you make it I will certainky drop by!!

a bientot...

Joan

Boys are on their way for some mint tea.....

Photos of Café Constant – after!

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Still little things to do..working on something for doorway and pics for the walls etc.

It is just a bit fancier….

A bientot…

Joan

This does look a bit glitzy!

What a nice change........

It grows on you..when they get whatever at entrance and some pics and things on the wall it will be fine. I just makes it look a bit fancier.
You did notice that it is C at door way in 2 pics..discuussing doorway treatment with someone....

a bientot...

Joan

Joan,
I will certainly give Reed and 110 Les Taillevent a try
Though I must admit I am being defeated by the cream here in France!

Joan,

We made reservations for Thursday March 14 at 7pm for Reed. We can't wait. We leave for Rome tomorrow with all the craziness that is going on with the Pope. It should be fun! Thank you so much for Catherine's e-mail and stop in and join us if you get the chance. I can't beleive it is already here!!!!!

Lisa

Irock,
May I ask how you are getting from Rome to Paris as we are planning on doing the same thing?

We will actually be coming from Sicily but we are using Easyjet.

Yes, I did recognize C at the doorway.

Saw Christian there this morning and he actually said in English "see you later".....

Off to Reed this evening.....

a bientot..

Joan

Give Catherine Reed our regards and tell her we will see her in April. Enjoy your dinner tonight.

Hi Pat/Jim..

I did give her your regards and told her it would be April before you were there.

She would like to join me at 110 Les Taillevent on Sunday. I have asked Amanda to join us and waiting for her reply before contacting them...You probably do not know Amanda..a neice of Mad..

Great dinner..will post tomorrow....

a bientot...

Joan

Okay -- only been home a few hours and I'm jealous already!!! What did you eat at Reed? I need to live vicariously. So sorry we never could make it to 110 Les Tallivent -- oh well, next trip.

Reed Dinner Feb 28….

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I don’t usually have dessert…

I had a glass of champagne, a glass of wine and a café crème

Catherine and I had a lot of visiting and she may join me on Sunday at 110 Les Taillevent..good for her!!

A bientot…

Joan

Looks familiar and scrumptious! I love her tarte tatin.

First one is a simple spaghetti nearby yesterday

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A good picture of the bar and behind with new light fixture and the crown moulding – Cafe Constant, of course..


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I went to President Wilson Sat market….blocks of seafood, vegetables and whatever from who knows where all….beautiful food that does not have additivies, is not grown in the tainted soil etc…but then we all know this….

It was a bit chilly..on the way back I thought my cheeks might break off. I got to Rapp and Universite and looked down towards Les Deux Abeilles and it looked like it was open..it was almost 12 at this time….I walked down and voila..it was open! What a joy to see their menu….they had a hot lemon with honey…I ordered it…it was hot and a bit tart. But felt good coming in from the cold! Soup, a good salad and again, I had dessert!

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You may note that I have not been to any big Michelin starred places. I have been to Guy Savoy, Astrance, La Serre, Taillevent (when M. Vrinat was alive)..Spring ‘before’ and ‘after’ etc…I think all who enjoy fine dining should experience a Michelin 3 star at least once….and I think in Paris where there are so many..to my knowledge in the US only NY, S/F and Vegas..

I now find my enjoyment is more in discovering a Reed, CasseNoix etc…I have great food all around me..I will miss Bar Vendome and l’Obe while the Ritz and Crillon are doing their re-models.

A bientot…..
Joan

I again have enjoyed all of your commentary and beautiful food photos.
I'm checking into the post image site as it seems to be working well for your individual photos.

I do like the post image site..very easy to work with..you can do many other things with it, too..

a bientot..

Joan

Catherine Reed and I met for lunch at Cafe Constant yesterday.

I did not feel like some heavy meal so orderred 2 entrees..the deviled eggs and the foie gras/toast. All aroundme oohed and aahed when the long plate of devilded eggs arrived. All was very good. I loaded all the photos and then I must have done something..they all disappeared. Sorry about that!!

Today was my day to take the 87 bus for a quick trip to St. Germaine for some wanderings to see who had closed and what new places had opened and had already planned on Leon's for my moules!!

A beautiful day. I did my dining and my wandering..walked part way back with some looking herre and dther and picked up the 87 bus near Bon Marche and home I went. Sooo, conveneint rf=rome here..with the bues across the street to wherever! Will post pics from today soon..

a bientot...

Joan

my photos from Leon's today

Leon’s for Moules…..they always suggest beer, so today that is what I ordered and here it is..one BIG glass of beer!!

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My moules……

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a bientot…

Joan

Question (out of curiosity): do you sightsee when you visit Paris?

Yes, I visit many places...a lot of the main tourist sites, I have seen in the past..so, I mainly visit different areas of Paris to acquaint myself with them.

I watch for special events here and there, too....always more to do than time for!

a bientot...

Joan

Hi - I still am following along and wishing we were back in Paris -- supposed to get a pretty big snow storm here this evening and tomorrow.

Speaking of sightseeing, not sure if I mentioned the Chagall exhibit at the Luxembourg Museum that recently opened. We saw it a couple days before we left Paris and loved it. We got our tix in advance and walked right in. The line for tickets was quite long.

Looking forward to your next installment.

Hi Dona,

I went to Florent's today for lunch and vissited with him. He asked if I had heard from you since arriving home. Had a nice lunch and will pos pics in due course.

Beautiful weather....I took a long way back to apartment to enjoy the weather and see what's going on.

I saw some interesting restaurants on a little street named Guisarde that runs between Mabillon and Canettes after lunch yesterday when I did some checking out things and just looking around. I will return.....

a bientot....

Joan

Here is a pic of my lunch at Flirt The today with Florent. It was very good. Tiny pasta. Had a nice visit with him....

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a bientot...

Joan

ah -- looks yummy! Glad the weather has warmed up there.
Cute place Flirt The. He had to pick up some stuff the night he drove us home. Be sure to say Hi to Florent from us crazy Amuricans. I was so sorry we didn't get to see them again before we left Paris.

Joan,

I've had some very good meals at La Boussole, 12 rue Guisarde, and a so-so dinner at La Bastide d'Opio, also on Guisarde.

Avoid the Italian restaurant which is on the cross street, rue des Canettes. The little crèpe place on Canettes is all right for a quick bite.

Thanks for the info...I don't remender the names of all of them..will go down it again and will know the ones to avoid..The Italian one that you mention is one that I did not think looked good..Cafe 6 or something....

The weatherman says great temps ahead..if he knows what he is talking about!!!

a bientot...

Joan

The Italian restaurant has really, really old photos of celebs dining there, from the 50s and 60s, it's on the left if coming from Place St Sulpice. Terrible meal. I need to learn to note the names of the poor ones as well as the good ones!

We also ate at La Boussole....just "stumbled" on it....had a very good meal. If you decide to try it, would like to hear your opinion. It's fun to discover new places !

Thanks for the added info re the La Boussole. I may be back in that area today. Have some things I want to do over that way.Hopefully another nice day weatherwise.

a bientot...

Joan

The sky was a bit grey, but warm. I decided I would go on to St. Germain for some things I wanted to do there and would have lunch some place there. I took my umbrella, as I knew for sure it would rain if I did not!

Got on my handy 87 bus and was off…I got to Bon Marche and made a quick decision to get off there. I spent I don’t know how much time there..might have spent a lot more as you can easily get completely lost in Bon Marche! I wonder how many customers spend the night there!

You go from one designer to another in every department. Have you ever been in the Cave…..-1 level..if you are a wine lover, you could be there all day long!!

I also did a bit of shopping in the area, but after Bon Marche they look a bit bland…..

I finally decided to head homeward and caught the 87 back and just went down to Café Constant and had some lunch…..Photo below..a nice glass of Sancerre with it….no dessert!

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a bientot….

Joan

Yum.

Question about the # 87. If you continue past Bon Marché, does it turn on to Blvd St Germain?

Thanks!

Yes it turns onto St. Germain..coming back with the one way streets it takes St. Sulpice and Bonaparte etc back to this area. A good bus route....with the 69, 42 and 87 across the street it is pretty handy..walk a block and cath some of the others for other areas...once you learn to graduate from the metro to the bus you are delighted..the Indispensables are the best..the 3 plan one and now the bus one...very handy...

a bientot....

Joan

Great, Joan, thanks very much.

Sue from Green Bay, Wis area knew nothing about the buses and I taught her how to use them. She was then gone from sunrise to sundown all over Paris, and beyond, on the bueses. She has been to more places on them than I have, I am sure!! Not all the up/down and walking, walking for the metro...plus you get to sight-see and find place to stop and take a look...a better way to travel around town!

a bientot...

Joan

Joan, I have been reading your travels with much interest as we will be in Paris May 10-19 and staying in an apartment near Rue de Grenelle and Blvd. Raspail. I am very interested in learning the bus system as I have stair climbing challenges and the metro did not work well for me last time.

I looked up on the RATP site and it looks like the #69 bus goes right down Rue de Grenelle? Can you suggest some other good bus routes?

Wanted to share with you on Rue Guisarde another good place, Chez Fernand. Tiny, but lots of locals, not too many tourists. Very good value for price.

I am traveling with my DD (21) and unfortunately, she is not an adventerous eater. We are planning Le Relais de L'entrecote, Leon for mussels, etc. What other places can you recommend? Also, if you can recommend any cafes, boulangeries in the area? There is an outpost of Poilane and Barthelmy not too far from us.

Thanks!

LBloom,
I use the L'Indespensable map books. All the tabcs have them. Easy to spot as they are dark blue with red. The 3 plan one is goo..it has the map the metro and the bus map of each arrondissement..3 maps for each. There is also a bus one that you can get. The area that you are staying in has many, many bus routes.

You can google for many restaurants in the area and I am sure will find many of all tyoes.

Thank you for the other Guisarde tip!

Hav fun planning...

a bientot..

Joan

I did go back to St. Germain today as I had some things to do there.

I went down to Comptoir du Relais. Was there shortly before noon. Was surprised at the small size (24) and zero ambience!Met a nice Paris gentleman and wife..1st in line they said and there would be enough to fill the place by 12. Crowded and noisy... No atmosphere, but great food. We chatted and I gave them some restaurants to try and I decided to pass on it. I did notice that it is almost across the sstreet from Marco Polo..a favorite of weekender! A nice looking place for huitres nearby that I almost decided on, but then went on to Guisarde and looked at the ones again having noted the not too good ones. I decided on one called Monteverdi...I had a nice lunch and took some photos and had nice conversation with the owner. At first I though I had made a mistake as it did have some old pics of M Monroe. Old timey, but attractive place..not noisy. It was quite busy by the time I left.

It is grey skies so I took my umbrella and kept it from raining! It is warm out..very comfortable....will post phots shortly..

a bientot...
Joan

Here are the photos...

Lunch Photos….

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a bientot….

Joan

Couldn't agree more that Comptoir du Relais has no atmosphere, but we love the lunches there. We Comptoir du Relais get there a little before noon and manage to get a seat. A couple times in nicer weather we have sat outside and enjoyed watching the street scene. But if you're looking for a leisurely, quiet lunch, this is not the place.

Hi Dona,

I was surprised with the place. In my mind it was something nicer. I know, you go for the food, not the atmosphere! The nice couple I met outside agreed, but they do go for the food. They were 1st in line. I would have been 2nd and could have been seated. I thought about it, but then decided that I wanted something more leisurely..I may return before I leave. I now do know what to expect! They were a nice local couple and we did have a nice vist and I gave them some to think about, too. They were glad!

I may go back to the oyster place. It did look very nice. You have to enjoy oysters..not all do!

a bientot...

Joan

Hi - love oysters and unfortunately we never got any while in Paris--so many things we missed. Just can never fit it all in. How much longer do you stay?

That is always the way, no matter how long you stay! I leave on the 19th. The 16th F & M, Amanda and I will go to Les 110 Taillevent..Amanda has not been. Going to CasseNoix for lunch with same friend next week who I introduced to Taillevent...I still have time for oysters and Le Comptoir...hope weather stays good....

a bientot...

Joan

I just called and made a lunch reservation for the huitres place that I saw today. It is quite new. 2 rue des Quatre Vents - L'Ecume des Bulles - Looking forward to it.... Just looked at it online..open 7 days lunch and dinner!! It looks good....

a bientot...

Joan

That is always the way, no matter how long you stay! I leave on the 19th. The 16th F & M, Amanda and I will go to Les 110 Taillevent..Amanda has not been. Going to CasseNoix for lunch with same friend next week who I introduced to Taillevent...I still have time for oysters and Le Comptoir...hope weather stays good....

a bientot...

Joan

My lunch today…..

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The dessert was a real rich chocolate thing…

A bientot…
Joan

I enjoyed looking at the oysters. How were they? What did you think of the restaurant?

~Roberta

Hi Roberta,

I liked the place! New, fresh and nice. I sent a message to all the Groundhoggers for 2014 that we might like to give it a try on Sat. We will be having first annual at Violon on Friday, Jan 31, I guess it will be. Wish you could join us..

It is warm....a bit wet today, but that is ok....

a bientot...

Joan

I had oysters and a bottle of Sancere. Unfortunately,
not in Paris. Joan, I'm snowed in. Rather have warm and wet.

I am really slipping here on Fodors...I just now found this post! Always enjoy reading about your visits to Paris. I've only read through half the posts, so now I'll have something to look forward to tonight...reading at home!

Good Morning!!

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a bientot...

Joan

Out and about this morning...absolutely beautiful day...warm, bright and sunny. Had my croissant and cafe at Cafe Constant and wandered down to several places on errands..Stopped by r. Cler and Davoli...will pick up something there for tomorrow, I think..

Just called Deux Abeilles and made lunch reservation for today.

a bientot...

Joan

Joan,
I'm happy to see the sun this morning too!

What a superb lunch at Les Deux Abeilles!!

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The pie was raspbury with hazelnut meringue

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It was filled by the time I left..such a nice place…
Lloyd and Jo Ann, I know you will like it!!

Funny things…a bit before I left some gal come in the front pushing this huge carriage. If you are familiar with Les Deux Abeilles, it is NOT the place for this sort of thing..there are steps in 2 different locations that she had to navigate this thing with..way to the back. I then noticed a couple at a table next to her asked to be moved. They were lucky that there was a spot! Next I see she is mixing up whatever glup for the child! Me, I could not possibly do this..rather stay home if could not get a sitter! To each his own!!

A gorgeous day….

A bientot…
Joan

Hi Joan- you are right about Le Comptoir but the food is excellent. The owner is an "escapee" from the traditional French, Michelin star restaurant scene, who wanted to encourage a more casual experience in diniing. So no fussy service and not much decor....the focus and the money is supposed to be on the food. We have always loved the beef cheeks there but not the server we have seen a few times, who we call Madame Lent, as speedy service is not part of her approach! Oooh and the lobster bisque is to die for but our favorite is just wine and saucisson!

Joan,

Been to Paris eight times and have never ridden the bus. You have shamed me. I will be riding it this summer.

Now to the RATP site to figure it out.

Love, love, love this report. I can't wait to go back and try all of the places that you've mentioned!

Are you eating at Le Florimond this trip?

Debra

I will get to Le Comptoir!

No, I have not been to Le Florimond this trip, or my last trip. For whatever reason became a bit tired of it.

I had been to Paris many, many times, too before trying the bus. I think we all then ask ourselves why we waited so long to try!
Go to the RATP site: http://www.ratp.fr/ Click on green plan des lines, next pg click on Bus, next Afficher olan de lign de bus and enter the line #...i.e.69 and it will come up..then click validate and it will print out. Before going print out the ones that you may want to use. I travel with a bunch. Be careful when looking at the stops when on the print out..they are for both directions, so not every stop is in each direction..follow the lines to it..

a bientot....

Joan

I'm running out of time..as always....

Think I will go to Le Comptoir tomorrow....going to Casse Noix on Thurs and next Sat eveing our group for 110 Les Taillevent....

A bit cooler today and grey...DSTime in the US, but not here...

a bientot...

Joan

Lisa,

What evening will you be at Reed? I think it is Wed?? I will check with Catherine. I will try to stop by and say hello...

a bientot...
Joan

Joan,
I'm happy to see the sun this morning too!

Thank you Joan for the bus info

But, for Le Florimond; was planning on eating there on my birthday this year. May just do so anyway as I will be with my daughter who loves it!

Looking forward to trying the new restaurants that you have visited, Reed in particular.

Debra

Zut! #69 goes to Père Lachaise! That is one trip on the schedule. Perfect. Thanks again.

Joan, We will put Les Deux Abeilles on the list!

Yes, the #69 bus is one that gives you a great tour of Paris and ending at Pere Lachaise. I did it.

Debra you might like to join one of Catherine's cooking classes at Reed. I may be going on Wednesday...that should be fun!

Waterdog..do put Deux Abeilles on your list. I am sure you will like it.

It's wet out, but looks like the rain has stopped..hope so!

a bientot...

Joan

I am going to Catherine's cooking class on Wed....stop laughing!! Remember the one at Violon a couple years ago? I remember that poor little naked bird that I stuffed!

I know it will be fun and we will enjoy a great lunch later...partially prepared by me!

a bientot...

Joan

OK, I did go to Le Comptoir. The weather was such that I left earlier than necessary and was first in line at 11:30. 2 fellows from California arrived shortly after. I had forgotten my gloves and my hands were freezing. It was grey and not quite raining..cold! My table was inside to left against wall to that little room and back to window..Calif fellows were seated next to me. As it turned out we would not have needed to stand in line..I think being Monday and not too nice a day,perhaps?

Well, my opinion, for whatever that is worth..(not much). I was a bit rushed by the gal in placing my order and with a many page menu. I should not have let her rush me. I ordered a foie gras and toast and it looked just like the one I had at Cafe Constant last week,with Catherine Reed, when we were there. But then how much could it be changed? I should have ordered a soup do get a sample of his creativity. I then ordered a St Jacques salad sort of dish and a tarte pomme for dessert. I will post pictures.

It was all good, the fellows next to me enjoyed what they had. Would I return? Not on a cold day and no gloves and stand in line for 30 minutes! If I stayed in the neighborhood I might go now and then..but there are others that I know of in the area that are also good.

a bientot....

Joan

My Le Comptoir Lunch experience…..

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I could/should have made better choices to have tested the culinary expertise!

A bientot…

Joan

You might want to know the cost of the above...60.10 euros! I have enjoyed great meals elsewhere for considerably less.

Out my windows this morning…..it will be gone soon…

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a bientot...

Joan

Joan,
We leave for Paris today. Right now we are in sunny Taormina, Sicily with views of Mt. Etna. But We can't wait to be back in Paris cold and all. We go to Reed Thursday. Can't wait.

Lisa

Lisa

Can you make it to a 9:30 cooking class tomorrow (Wed) at Reed??

JOan

Snow again! I think it makes Paris so lovely when it snows.
Sorry u didn't enjoy your meal at Le Comptoir. But as you said there are many restaurants to choose from in Paris.
Have fun at your cooking class.

Hi Dona,

Never seen so much snow in Paris..so unusual!!

It is not that I did not enjoy the food at Le Comptoir. The food was fine. I did not find that what I ordered was anything special. The cold, standing in line and the so-so atmosphere did not help!

a bientot..

Joan

Hi Joan: One again I love being able to look over your shoulder on your wonderful trip. Thanks so much for sharing with us!

On the first picture you posted on Mar. 12, there's a little cafe? across the street... what is the name and have you eaten there?

Thanks again!

That's the brasserie Le Champ de Mars.

Lunch at Café Constant yesterday..

This was an egg..really very good

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This was chicken with mashed potato

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Out my window this morning..

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Going to Catherine Reed cooking class this morning. I will take pictures.

A bientot…

Joan

That's a lot of snow! Is it sticking or melting already? I heard on the news that airports in Europe were canceling flights yesterday. CDG being one of them.
Can't wait to hear about your cooking class.

Catherine Reed Cooking Class…

I’m cooking:

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We had great fun and a super meal cooked by one and all!!

A bientot…

Joan

Dona,

The snow is melting. It was slippery walking down to Reed this morning...many icy areas on sidewalk...roads were icy here and there. Walking home this afternoon was find. A bit chilly, but OK.

More snow than I have ever seen in Paris..and locals are saying same....

Fun cooking class..all enjoyed. Catherine is such a nice, friendly person.

Tomorrow having lunch with Paris friend at Casse Noix..she has never been..

a bientot...

Joan

Look at you cooking! What fun and I bet delicious. I thought Catherine a delight and bet she is great at a cooking class. I lvoed watching her cook when we ate at Reed.

Ah Caisse Noix -- i still remember that fabulous duck and soup we both had. Enjoy!

Weather is not great here in DC, but at least no snow for us. I think Paris may have gotten more snow this winter than DC did.

Love the idea of the cooking class. I might do it with my daughter, but I will be with my sister-in-law who does not cook so it will probably not be a group activity!

The snow is amazing. Now I long to see a snowy Paris. For some reason, the snow photo that featured a French flag made me very nostalgic for Paris; I don't know what it is about the bleu, blanc, rouge that gets me every time.

Thanks again for the great photos. I'm sorry to note less than a week remains of your trip as I have really enjoyed reading this report and seeing your photos.

Glad the pics were enjoyed. Bet you sister-in-law could tag along and watch?

Went to lunch at Casse Noix today with friends. We all had a great lunch..and I forgot my camera!! I did have the same butternut soup that I had with Dona when we were there for dinner. I had the caille and what the others had all look great and were enjoyed...

Snow has about all disappeared....

a bientot...

Joan

I went down to Reed this evening to say hello to Lisa and her family. We had a nice visit.It was nice to meet them.

I ahad aboslutely no plans to eat this evening after our great lunch. As I got nearer Violon I thought maybe I should stop and ask Alexandre if he had a short notice spot for me. Voila, of course he did. A welcoming glass of pink champagne and Alexandre's always special treatment!! I always say that I wonder why I go across town here and there trying places when none can really compare to the ambience, special care and wonderful food at Violon. This time perhaps even more noticeable as I have waited to go until the end of my trip. It does stand out! I will post my pics tomorrow. I would not want to stop trying new places, as that is the fun of what I enjoy doing when here. It also shows me that I live in a very special little area of Paris that has everything, plus so much more!!

a bientot...

Joan

Violon d’Ingres – Dinner

A good start with a glass of pink Champagne… don’t think it shows in the photo..

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Eggs, eggs..lots of eggs..and sooo good!

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The Seabass is always great..

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And Christian’s millefeuille…what can I say!!


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A nice Sancerre wine, excellent service, ambience..nice evening. I arrived early..probably a bit before 8 and when I left, it was full as most diners were yet to arrive.

I did chat with Alexandre a bit about Groundhog Day…

a bientot…

Joan

Love the sea bass at Violon! It's one of the best preparations of sea bass I have ever had. I have Christian's cookbook which has the recipe, I really need to try and make it one day!

Joan I loved your pictures from the cooking class. What a nice picture of you. I am surprised to see the snow. It has been cold here in naples in the morning. Its been in low 40s every am. Cold for florida....enjoy

Come on, the Sea bass might be fabulous....but what wouldn't be if you have Alexandre there to admire? That's a view! Throw in some Sancerre with that.....perfection.

The cooking class looked great! I will expect you to make profiteroles the next time I am in Asheville!

Hi Denise,

I thought of you the whole time that Alexandre was being his usual welcoming self! I talked to him a bit about Groundhog Day, too. You need to put that on your work calendar that you will be away!! It will be celebrated on 1/31/14, as a Friday night is best for weekender.

I don't think my profiteroles would esemble what we prepared. I do have her printout recipe for all. I can send to you when I return home and you can make some for Chaz...

You should do Catherine's cooking class..you and Chaz and maybe get some others who will be here to make it a fun class! The Groundhog group cooking class! Catherine will go for that!!

The oyster place is right near Le Comptoir and I think it is Thurs and Fri all you can eat for a price! Might be a fun group place, too....

Just came from Les Cocottes...had lunch and we 5 are going to 110 Les Taillevent tonight..should be a fun, fun evening. You have to go there, of course!!

I will post pics, soon....

Lunch

Les Cocottes…

Potato and leek soup and shimp/salad

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Clafoutis

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A nice glass of St. Emilion and voila!!

A bientot….

Joan

Next will be out 110 Les Taillevent event!

Thanks so much for the information about the bus map routes. I've just printed out several for our trip in September.

And thank you for all the great details and photos that you've provided.

Could you estimate the price of lunch at Les Deux Abeilles? It looks and sounds wonderful. Your crabmeat/avocado salad looked delicious as did the slice of raspberry tart.

Best wishes for your final days!

Say hello to tonight's group from the crazy Amuricans. I so wish we could be there to join in the fun and good food. I know it will be a great evening.

Les Deux Abeilles lunch was 36 euros. That did include a glass of wine and cafe creme. It is agood spot!

You will enjoy the bus. All wonder why they did not try it sooner!

Fun for all tonight, for sure Dona. Wish you were joining us, too.

a bientot...
Joan

An Evening To Remember at 110 Les Taillevent!

Amanda joined me with my regular driver service to take us to the restaurant. Michael, Florent and Francoise drove there and arrived shortly after us. This is the first time that we had sat in the main dining room area..always the fun bar before. A nice, attractive area.

We all started with a wine of choice (rather than champagne) and spent a great deal of time over the wine menus for our selections with starter and with our main. Also a great deal of time with the dining menu. They have a 39 euros menu for both lunch and dinner, but we also found that we could interchange between both menus for our selections….which we did….

Now for some photos..

Amanda’s choice..

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The other 4 of us..the egg….soooo good!

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This was the mock boeuf which was ordered by more than 1

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I think this was Amanda’s and don’t remember what it was…

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Pike quenelle..for me

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Now for some desserts….

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This one comes in 2 stages:

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My exotic fruit thing

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Florent ordered profiteroles

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I had seen this when here for lunch..it is called the Mont Blanc..for Michael

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Our fun little group

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Florent had tea and I had a café au lait..we chatted a bit about our Groundhog event ..Le Jour de la Marmotte..It is officially Friday, Jan 31 2014. We will be putting our group together.

Michael drove us back to our apts in the 7th and we all said our goodbyes and off to bed. Amanda and I decided that we would have lunch at Florent’s Flirt The on Monday…I leave on Tuesday and she leaves on Wednesday.

A bientot…..

Joan

Thank you, Joan, for the price of your lunch at Les Deux Abeilles and the fabulous food pictures.

As always the food looks scrumptious & the people very happy. Can't believe your time in Paris is drawing to an end. Enjoy your last days.

I love it "Le Jour de la Marmotte."...sound so much nicer than Groundhog day

As usual, great trip report. As you know, I always spend such a short time in Paris but I am trying 110 Taillevent for sure.

Have a safe trip home, Joan!

~Roberta

Just looked up Les 110 de Taillevent and saw that it is the former L'Angle. My husband and I ate at L'Angle during our first trip to Paris in 2003 and it was wonderful; the menu was based on cherries (in season) and among the dishes I remember are duck, fois gras, and chocolate something, all with cherry. I must go back this summer to relive! Thanks Joan for ANOTHER great tip.

Yes, it was the former Angle du Faubourg, but you would not recognize it in any way...only location!

We had a great time and are thinking of our "Jour de la Marmotte" get together to be there, on Friday Jan 31.

Off this morning to get boarding pass printed, do my packing and will have lunch at Flirt The, with Florent and Amanda.

a bientot....

Joan

Yes, it was the former Angle du Faubourg, but you would not recognize it in any way...only location!

We had a great time and are thinking of our "Jour de la Marmotte" get together to be there, on Friday Jan 31.

Off this morning to get boarding pass printed, do my packing and will have lunch at Flirt The, with Florent and Amanda.

a bientot....

Joan

Roberta,

I am sure that you and your sister will enjoy Taillevent. E-mail early and ask for bar seating...you will have fun!!

a bientot...

Joan

Joan,
Safe travels!

Lloyd and Jo Ann...have we convinced you to be here for La Jour de la Marmotte at 110 Les Taillevent?

Time went too fast..as always...

a bientot...

Joan

Have a good trip home!

I admire your style! And you live in Ashville? Gave serious thought to retiring there.

Sue,

Asheville is a great place to live. Being a S. Floridian it is common for families to have a summer home in the western NC mountains..many in families for generations. Mama and kids go when school is out and daddy flys up for weekends..lots of golf! We had a summer home and when S Fla (all Fla) became too crowded we, along with most friends, decided time to leave. Could not find anyplace that we liked as much as NC, so it became home! A wise choice, for us.

My husband died in 2004 and I spend a lot of time with my travels. Paris has become a place that I am fond of and like many return often..no end to the joys of it. Only bad part is the miserable flying...c'est la vie!!

a bientot..

Joan

Joan,

Bon voyage and thank you again for another wonderful virtual trip back to my favorite neighborhood in Paris.

Looking forward to your NEXT trip report already!

Debra

Debra,

You should joing us for Le Jour de la Marmotte!!

a bientot...

Joan

I did arrive home last evening about 7:30...A long day..always!

Will take sosme time to dig out. Picked up cats this morning.

Just for your information..I lost 2 pounds while in Paris..always lose..

a bientot...

Joan

Welcome home, Joan. Thanks again for taking us along with you!

I always lose (a little) weight in Paris, too.

I'm seriously thinking about joining "Le Jour de la Marmotte" crew (although I should probably discuss with my husband before mentioning that on the www ), but it's a long way off...sounds fun, though, as all of your trips do!

Hi Joan,

OMG you lost weight whilst consuming all that delicious food!
I think I gained a pound or two just looking at the photos of your wonderful meals. Thanks for sharing your trip with us.
I will miss my morning breakfast treat reading your posts and admiring the photos. I will be in Paris(solo) in May and December hope to dine at some of the places you mention. I had a memorable brunch at the Crillon a year or so ago when you kindly encouraged me to go ahead on own.
Thanks so much Joan, it is such a pleasure to 'take a Paris trip' along with you.
When will you be returning?

Welcome home, Joan! Hope you r having sunshine and blue skies at home. Still pretty cool/cold up this way.
YG - it so worth making the effort to go to one of Joan's GTG's -- such fun and such delicious food.

After a month in France (18 days of which were in Paris) I gained 1 lb. I think we took the metro/buses a bit this trip because of the very cold temps & that accounted for the 1 lb gained. I think in Paris, portions tend to be smaller than the US esp desserts and I walk 10 miles or so most days while staying in Paris. So I'm with Joan and YG on that.

Hi Joan
Im glad you arrived home safely...We will be leaving Naples a few days after Easter. I sure did enjoy your blog...I will be in touch

Joan,

I am sorry it has taken me so long to write this but we have been haggling with Air France. They downgarded 2 of us on the way home and it is a complete act of congress to figure out how to get any money back.

I wanted to tell you how lovely it was to meet you and how much we enjoyed the conversation. I always enjoy your reports so much. They are my way to hear about Paris until I can go back again. I am so looking forward to your next trip! BTW, we enjoyed Reed so much that we went back on Saturday night for our final Paris dinner. The beef cheeks were sooo very good. We are going to do the cooking class next time we are in Paris. But, I am sure I will be like you and stir and take pictures. I am not the cook, my husband is. Can't wait!!


Lisa

Hi Lisa,

It was nice visiting wit you, too. Glad that you enjoyed Reed so much!

You and your husband should both do the cooking class. Many men join in.

I had a good trip back as far as things being on time. It is just a looong day!
Sorry that you had the downgrade problems. It would seem that you should be due a refund..

a bientot..
Joan