Random Words by J. Ledesma: Paris: The Food.

Steamed mussels and pomme frites at La Mascotte.

One of the highlights of my trip was the food in Paris. Whether it be a chocolate dipped croissant, a mushroom and cheese crepe from a street vendor, or steamed clams from La Mascotte in Monmartre, it was all delicious. Across the street from Notre Dame cathedral is a reasonably priced restaurant called Esmeralda's. There I tried escargot for the first time and was blown away. The snails were cooked in butter and pesto and had the texture of steamed clams. I regret not ordering the full dozen. The other place I really enjoyed was a restaurant near Victor Hugo's house called Cafe Hugo's. The French onion soup there was amazing! We also had their cheese platter with some really good red wine. The grand finale was a steak dinner with some scalloped potatoes that were lightly seasoned and baked. The food in Paris was magnificent and did not disappoint one bit. One of the many reasons I hope to return someday.
Another thing I loved about the restaurants in Paris was how kick back they were. There is no such thing as a quick sit down meal there. When people meet up at restaurants for either dinner or drinks, they relax and enjoy each others company. You can sit, chat, eat and drink for hours without the waiter bringing you the check. It was a pretty neat experience.