By D.W.G. Kalani Tharanga, JadeTimes News
Michelin starred chef Anne Sophie Pic offers a curated list of her top restaurant picks in Paris, encompassing both time honored establishments and exciting new arrivals. Her selections present a delightful mix of classic French cuisine and innovative culinary experiences, showcasing the dynamic and vibrant food scene of the French capital.
Established in 1929 by chef Antoine Magnin, Chez L’Ami Louis remains a quintessential Parisian dining experience, seemingly untouched by time. The restaurant’s dark wood panels, waiters clad in immaculate white blazers and black ties, and the enduring woodfire oven create an atmosphere steeped in old world charm. Specializing in traditional dishes like steak frites and croque monsieur, Chez L’Ami Louis continues to be a beloved spot for both locals and visitors, offering a nostalgic taste of Parisian culinary heritage.
Romantic Elegance: Espadon Ritz Paris
Espadon, nestled within the illustrious Ritz Paris Hotel, unveiled a refreshed look and an innovative menu in September 2023. The restaurant, now helmed by chef Eugénie Béziat, the first female head chef at the hotel since its inception in 1898, brings a unique culinary perspective influenced by her Gabonese roots. Her menu marries African flavors with traditional French ingredients, offering dishes infused with hibiscus flower, cassava, and brede mafane (spilanthes plant). Diners can indulge in this exquisite gastronomic journey in an opulent dining room adorned with a crystal leaf chandelier or under the stars in the Grand Jardin, making Espadon one of the most romantic dining destinations in Paris.
Anne Sophie Pic, a self taught chef whose renowned restaurant Le Dame de Pic is situated near the Louvre, underscores the importance of evoking emotion through food. Her dishes, celebrated for their contemporary flair while honoring French culinary traditions, reflect her passion for creating memorable dining experiences. Pic's selections for the best restaurants in Paris embody this blend of innovation and tradition, showcasing her appreciation for the city’s rich culinary landscape.
Best Seafood, Yam’Tcha
For exceptional seafood, Pic recommends Yam’Tcha, a cozy French Chinese restaurant adorned with one Michelin star. Chef Adeline Grattard, inspired by her time in Hong Kong, brings the elusive umami flavors to Paris with a creative twist. Her daily changing tasting menu might feature dishes like foie gras soufflé paired with white miso or steamed bao buns filled with Stilton cheese and Amarena cherry. The restaurant's name, meaning "having a meal with tea" in Cantonese, reflects its unique tea pairings, carefully curated and explained by Grattard's husband, adding an extra dimension to the dining experience.
Table Bruno Verjus stands out for its dedication to sustainability and quality. Chef Bruno Verjus sources ingredients from small, local producers, crafting a daily changing menu that highlights the finest herbs, vegetables, fish, and meat. The restaurant, which holds two Michelin stars and a green star for its sustainable practices, showcases Verjus’s passion for elevating produce with his culinary expertise. Each dish reflects the chef's commitment to showcasing the natural flavors and quality of his carefully selected ingredients.
Best Budget Option, Père & Fils par Alléno
For a casual yet high quality dining experience, Pic recommends Père & Fils par Alléno, a unique burger joint created by three star Michelin chef Yannick Alléno and his son. Located in Beaupassage, a vibrant open air shopping mall, the restaurant combines the charm of an American diner with the sophistication of a Parisian bistro. Known for "burgers cooked by chefs," the menu is periodically refreshed with new creations from guest chefs, ensuring a constantly evolving selection. Pairing these gourmet burgers with seasonal salads and a carefully curated wine selection, Père & Fils par Alléno offers a delicious and affordable dining option in a lively setting.
Anne Sophie Pic’s recommendations highlight the diverse and evolving culinary scene in Paris, offering a perfect blend of traditional and contemporary cuisine that captures the essence of the city’s rich gastronomic heritage.