chez Georges – Paris

We had the opportunity to go to Paris in September and had the most wonderful trip.  I’ve been so busy since returning that I haven’t had a chance to share some of our culinary adventures. With all that is going on in Paris, my heart just aches for those who have been directly affected.  After spending ten days in this amazing city, I feel a special bond with it and all the wonderful people we met.  This seemed a good time to share my experiences and hope that it will encourage others to visit.

During our trip, we tried to find local places that served traditional French food and not gastronomic places.  We did a lot of research and found some real gems.  I don’t think you can go wrong in Paris, but I’ll share a couple of places that I would go back to next time we return to this marvelous city.  chez Georges to me was a perfect French dining experience.  Its ’s an old bistro, I’ve heard one of Julia Child’s favorites.  You will be sitting a foot or less away from your neighbors on both sides.  (Personal space is a little different in Paris) You can’t help but chat with someone  who is sitting right next to you.  One nice benefit, is you can see what they ordered which might help in the decision making process. The maitre de was very attentive and checked in with all the tables (there aren’t many) several times throughout the evening.  He was engaging as was our waitress who made everyone feel at home.  While we weren’t the only tourists, most of the patrons seemed to be regulars.

My neighbor had steak with a mustard cognac cream sauce and crunchy french fries that looked so good it took a lot of will power not to reach over and try one.  Instead, I ordered what he had.  Earlier in the week I had ordered a steak medium and it came out very rare, so I discussed my preference with the waitress to make sure I was ordering it correctly and she assured me it would be perfect, which it was.  The cognac mustard cream sauce was so good we were dipping the heavenly french fries in it. I started the meal with escargot which were divine. It’s hard to get fresh plump escargot at home.  I have to admit that I ordered escargot at almost every meal while in Paris and was not disappointed in any of the preparations. While I really didn’t need it, I wanted to get the apple dessert but they had run out. Our waitress suggested that if we return, to reserve dessert first.

This dining experience was just what we were looking for, excellent food, served in an unpretentious way with a staff that appeared to really love their job.  We decided to go back on our last night and this time I made sure they saved a piece of the apple upside down cake served with a huge bowl of creme freche.  It was a great way to say goodbye to Paris.  We met the most interesting folks both nights and can’t wait to return on our next visit.

chez Georges Rue du Mail 75002 Paris