Vacation, Paris and London
I just got back from 10 days split between Paris and London. I used to be a diligent blogger when I was away, but these days I find myself working on relaxing in the late afternoons, which means reading rather than writing. It was a fantastic trip, and we had some fabulous meals, so I will highlight the best of the best in one post.
In Paris, there has been an explosion of Asian food spots throughout the city, and that is happening across many urban spots, including NYC. I am still thinking about MAM from Hanoi, which might be the best Pho I have ever had. The place is tiny, so just so you know, reservations are needed.
Cheval D’Or is also a win; this will be our second time back. Everything is excellent, from the service to the wine to the amuse-bouche. We will definitely go again.
We came for Paris Photo, one of my favorite art shows. I was underwhelmed this year. Are galleries playing it safe? Are galleries opting out? It is unclear, but it did allow us to try the recently opened Le Grand Café housing in the newly renovated Grand Palais, where the photo show has returned. I am not running back, but it is definitely a nice option if you are in that area.
Passerini, a delicious, traditional Italian spot in the 12th, we have been to a few times. We didn’t have a reservation, so instead we stopped in to Passerina, their cafe across the street. A great spot to know about, lots of locals and families there, and the food is delicious. These pastas were incredible.
Les Enfants Des Marches is located in Marches des Enfants Rouges, the market we return to every single time we are in Paris, although we have never eaten at this spot. The spot defines contemporary French food. We had several dishes (all small), but the one that I wasn’t expecting to be my favorite was the vegetables. Steamed vegetables served over a beurre blanc sauce, with a mushroom and watercress sauce on the side. I am still thinking about this dish.
Shinya Pain is in the 18th (Montmarte), opens at 430, Thursday – Sunday, and cash only. Only in Paris! We stood in line and bought bread, cookies, and tarts. Everything was good, but the winner was the caramelized banana coconut chocolate tart.
In London, one must always have Indian food. The Tamil Prince is a cozy English pub with Indian food. You can’t go wrong with anything you order, but my absolute favorite was the salad. If only I could get the recipe for the salad dressing. Crunchy chopped vegetables with a spicy, sweet, tangy, salty dressing. Mop everything up with a warm roti. So good.
The other must is St. John, any of their locations, classic British food elevated to an entirely different level. Their rarebit is so damn good. I always stop by Dover Street Market, too. It is always great to be back in London for a cuppa or a delicious beer. The pub life there is epic.
That’s a wrap and back in for the home stretch of 2025.