So I haven't checked my blog for quite some time and realized I am missing quite a bit of important aspects of the city of Paris that I enjoyed most. So here is a random collection of places to go or things to buy.
First and foremost. When you get to Paris go straight to Printemps, find the grocery store on the top level, in between the 8th and 9th arr. and pick up two things. First this amazing Lindt creation bar Creme Brulee flavor that can ONLY be purchased in France. I bought five while I was there, ate all of those, then bought five more to bring back. Best Lindt chocolates you will ever eat. Secondly, pick up a jar of the Le Bon Marché jam any flavor doesnt matter they are all amazing. If I had to recommend one I would say the fruits de la passion. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Kir Royal's are practically extinct in Paris and the only place we found that still served them was The Lizard Lounge, a little dive bar in the 4th arr. From what I remember it was within walking distance of the Louvre and the Notre Dame Cathedral. These are great drinks made by mixing champagne and clack currant liqueur If you go to The Lizard Lounge sit near the window and people watch for a true Parisian experience.
Cafe Pouchkine, whatever I say about this place will never truly amount to what amazing pastries they actually have. Located on the ground level of Printemps they are truly artisans of the pastry. Just look at the pictures below and you will see their mastery all topped with real gold flakes.
Denise Acabo, what a sweet lady with a huge heart. The best candy shop in paris by far is A l'Etoile d'Or. Don't worry about pronouncing it right because I never can anyway. The main reason to visit A l’Etoile d’Or is simply because it’s the only place outside of the original shop in Lyon that sells Bernachon chocolate. If you’ve never had anything from Bernachon, close your laptop and get on the next flight to Lyon. Bernachon is one of the handful of chocolate shops in the entire world that makes the chocolate they use from scratch. That’s right, folks. They buy sacks of cacao beans, then roast and grind them into pure, dark bittersweet chocolate.Some twenty years ago, Denise actually got down on her hands-and-knees and begged Monsieur Bernachon if she could please sell their chocolate. (What do you say to a woman in pigtails, wearing a tie, down on her knees?) So an alliance was formed, and you’ll find stacks of these fine bars of chocolates lined up at her shop. When I was there last week, I lucked out–there were many stacked up. Other times you’ll find her stock dangerously low. One last thing GET THE CARAMELS! MANGUE & FRUITS DE LA PASSION! Best candy I have ever EVER eaten by far. Denise has all your chocolates, sugary candies and even candied rose petals and violet petals.
Amorino found all over Paris but if you are by Notre Dame stop at the one located at 16 Rue de la Huchette. They make amazing ice cream in the shape of flowers. Look at the flavor section below and start picking yours out before you arrive! And if you dont get a chance to visit this one there are others in New York and London as well. Check out their site to find the one near you http://www.amorino.com/en/our-shops
Berthillion is among the most well known ice cream shops in Paris and it is tough to decide who is the better contender between them, Amarino and Grom so I say go to all three and make up your own mind. While Berthillion is now contracted with many other businesses around the city the real one is near Notre Dame located at 29-31 rue Saint Louis en l'ile. Beware the chocolate is REALLY chocolatey as is almost all chocolate in Paris. I usually opt for the fig, mango, passion fruit, raspberry or salted caramel.
