From charming bistros tucked away in cobblestone alleys to bustling markets brimming with fresh produce and artisanal delights, this is your guide to eating like a local when in Paris. Join us on a culinary journey that can only be guided by a local to get the best of Paris on your palette. In this delightful conversation with the Head Concierge at Mandarin Oriental Paris, you will be enlightened about a local’s favourite and must-skip places for good.
Whether you call Paris your second home or are a first-time visitor, this guide aims to elevate your dining experience beyond the typical tourist fare. Time to rejoice in the spirit of Parisian joie de vivre, savouring everything that locals admire in the city.
PL: What is the one culinary experience you would recommend to food enthusiasts visiting your city?
Head Concierge, MO Paris: Visit the open-air food market at Avenue du Président-Wilson (Open on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 7 am to 2.30 pm). Many of the city’s top chefs source their seasonal products here. In addition, The Grande Epicerie, which is part of the Bon Marché department store, is the best luxury food store in the city.
PL: Tell us about a culinary adventure you embarked on in the city that surprised you when you first discovered it.
Head Concierge, MO Paris: The oldest (and smallest) food market /open-air food hall in Paris is the Marché des Enfants Rouges, located in the historic Marais district. There are several small food stalls, especially the Enfants du Marché, an open-air food counter with excellent dishes, frequented by many local chefs and foodies.
PL: Which restaurant is a local secret that you don't want to tell people about?
Head Concierge, MO Paris: One of Paris’ best seafood restaurants, located in the residential 11th district, belongs to local Michelin-starred ‘Septime’ and is walk-in only. The food is excellent and frequented by those who know.
PL: What is the one food tourist trap that everyone visiting your city should be wary of?
Head Concierge, MO Paris: Anything in and around the Latin Quarter. Although the district is ancient and charming, the restaurants are of poor quality and mostly low-end kebab joints. Also, the beautiful Place du Tertre at the top of Montmartre Hill, although very picturesque, doesn’t have any good restaurants, except for simple things like a crepe or cup of coffee.
PL: What are some of the most popular culinary trends you’re enjoying at the moment in your city?
Head Concierge, MO Paris: Seasonal cooking has been the most popular and influential trend of the past few years, and almost every new bistro adopts this formula. Many new restaurants have a no-choice tasting menu formula to better highlight seasonal products.
PL: How has the culinary landscape evolved over the past few years and what has been the driving force behind the change?
Head Concierge, MO Paris: Many new chefs who have staged in high-end Michelin-star restaurants have struck out on their own in smaller establishments in lower-rent districts such as the 9th, 10th and 11th. They use high-end techniques learned in hotels and fine dining establishments. The entire culinary “landscape” is highly influenced by this trend. Also, natural wines (“raw” wines that have no added chemicals and preservatives) have become very popular and can be found on the menus of most new restaurants.
What are your favourite spots to eat in Paris? Share with us in the comments below. Book your trip to the City of Love & Light with us and get the best deals when you stay at our preferred partner hotels. Contact Us to know more.
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