Paris is by far one of the most beautiful cities in France, not to mention the world. It’s the perfect size: you can easily walk virtually anywhere as long as you’re wearing the right shoes; you can always find a seat in bar on Friday night, because there are so many great places; you can get the best cup of coffee at your local dingy café; and there are so many amazing museums that you will never get bored.
While the above remains true, there are times when being an American in Paris can be somewhat isolating. You tend to stick out when you accidentally start speaking to someone in English, and after a while you may want something other than jambon beurre sandwiches or Nutella crêpes. But don’t despair. This doesn’t mean it’s time to go home, just that you need a few moments of home cooking:
- Breakfast in America
17 rue des Ecoles 75005 Paris
Métro: Cardinal Lemoine or Jussieu
Tel: +33(0)1 43 54 50 28
The founder, Craig Carlson, hopes to make the BIA chain spread across Europe. American breakfasts are pretty unique and the restaurant has a mix of clientèle of French locals, expats, and tourists.
- Thanksgiving
20, rue Saint Paul 75004 Paris
Metro: Bastille or St Paul
Tel: +33 (0)1 42 77 68 28
The original store, which stocks classic American items that are virtually impossible to find in France - such as dried cranberry, chocolate cake mix, pumpkin pie filler - has now expanded to include a Cajun restaurant.
- Joe Allen Restaurant
30 Rue Pierre Lescot 75001 Paris
Metro: Etienne Marcel, Châtelet Les Halles
Tel: +33 (0)1 42 36 70 13
The restaurant has been around since the early 70s. Founded by a New Yorker, its menu alone will cure any homesick feelings. Go for brunch and make sure to order the cheesecake.
- Bob’s Juice Bar
15, rue Lucien Sampaix 75010 PARIS
Metro: Jacques Bonsergent
Tel: +33 (0) 8 72 33 14 70
Pancakes on Sunday. Need I say more? Well, yes. The 7€ (~US$14) formule includes a juice, soup, salad and muffin, which is a great price, all in great, nostalgia-inducing atmosphere.
Please do not be fooled by Hard Rock Café, McDonalds, Tex-Mex or any other American-style restaurant. Remember, you are still in France and if you are going to eat American food, make it good food. Also, there is nothing more depressing than sitting in a restaurant that is supposed to emulate American food and culture when actually it’s just a cheap hamburger with a little flag stuck in a thin strawberry shake.