BISTROS, BRASSERIES, AND RESTAURANTS
When stopping at a cafe or salon de the, you can just order a drink and be on your way. You can also order a snack. However, the bistros, brasseries, and restaurants are about sitting down for a full meal.
Some of these establishments are the cornerstone of Parisian dining while others are new with experimental menus and chefs. There is no way to keep up with them all so this is a great resource to look ahead. But I also suggest, looking around on your advenures and trying things out. That's how my husband and I have enjoyed some of our best meals!
Some of these establishments are the cornerstone of Parisian dining while others are new with experimental menus and chefs. There is no way to keep up with them all so this is a great resource to look ahead. But I also suggest, looking around on your advenures and trying things out. That's how my husband and I have enjoyed some of our best meals!
BISTROS
Although Bistro means "quick", you'll find that it's not quick in the American way.
The food and menu will be more sophisticated than at a cafe. The atmosphere is intimate and close. Since bistros are the kind of place where Parisians most often come to enjoy food, it's the perfect place to mingle with "the locals". RESTAURANTS
Restaurants tend to be on the upper level of the food ladder. This is where you can dine on cutting edge or very traditionally elegant French cuisine.
The atmosphere is usually more formal, the meal longer, and everything a more upscale - including the price. However, I've eaten at some lovely little restaurants that served excellent food without maxing out our credit cards. Don't forget to make a reservation. You can either call or if you stumble upon one you like, just go in and ask for a reservation. Parisians eat out a lot so you might have to wait a night or two. |
THE BRASSERIE
Brasseries originated as breweries in the Middle Ages for people wanted beer, at any time of the day or night, serving hearty food that went with the beer.
Now, you can get more than just beer but The food is still geared toward beer and often serves fresh seafood, with a seafood bar featuring freshly shucked shell fish. That atmosphere is casual and often boisterous - with the exception of the very elegant Maxim's. |