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Paris
In French culture, enjoying fine food and wine
is not reserved for celebratory occasions, nor
is it considered an occasional luxury, but the
primary benchmark of an abundant life itself.
This is evidenced by the French term for an
epicurean, le bon vivant, directly translating to
“one who lives well.”
With restaurants boasting over 140 Michelin
stars, living well is easy in the city of Paris,
perhaps most notably at the establishments
of Alain Ducasse. Among the most esteemed
chefs in the world, Ducasse holds a total of
19 Michelin stars across 23 restaurants in
seven countries. His flagship Parisian eatery,
Restaurant le Meurice, is a beacon of epicurean
fortitude, crafting unexpected combinations
such as Brittany langoustine in lemon cream
alongside golden Iranian caviar, Groix Island
sole filets with héliantis roots and black truffle,
and a dessert of Landes apricots with avocado
and fresh almond tofu.
SPRING | 2018
The French tradition that inspired Julia
Child and countless others is known for
marrying opposing flavor profiles and
textures—like the pairing of a salty Roquefort
with a glass of sweet Sauternes or the brittle
caramelized crust atop a smooth crème brûlée.
Part of the beauty of the Parisian experience
is that hints of this ubiquitous tradition show
themselves in subtle ways, both in swanky
restaurants and modest local cafes alike.
Witness it firsthand with the obligatory
visit to a local fromagerie like Androuet or
Laurent Dubois. For dessert, be sure to grab a
pastel-colored box of goodies from Ladurée.
Whether you speak the language or
not, your best attempt at simple French
pleasantries will go a long way in receiving
stellar recommendations—and it’s often these
authentic interactions that are most telling of
the culture.
C O N TACT YO U R T R AV E L A DV I S O R TO DAY
PHOTOS
L E F T: S T R E E T C A F É I N PA R I S
R I G H T: G O U R M E T F R E N C H O N I O N S O U P