5-Star Food on a 2-Star Budget — Paris
Paris may be the city of light, but it is also arguably the cuisine capital of the world. Of course, with the incredible eating also comes the unbelievable price tag. While restaurants like Jules Verne in the Eiffel Tower, or Guy Savoy near the Champs Elyssee may serve up some of the best food, the prices put them far out of reach of mere mortals.
Years ago, my mother came across a gem of Parisian cuisine that at first sounds too good to be true, but after a taste of their lobster mac n’ cheese a few years ago I can tell you that it does indeed exist. Bistrot da cote Flaubert is one of Paris’ best-kept culinary secrets. Right around the corner from Michele Rostang, one of Paris’ priciest spots, the Bistrot sits in quiet obscurity. Those who choose to forgo the golden doors of Michele Rostang and instead venture into the Bistrot, owned by the same family, are in for an experience like no other.
The charmingly small bistro, with its collection of beer steins and Michelin Tire Co. artifacts (a nod to the coveted restaurant grading system), is the last place you would expect to have a mind-blowing dinner. Yet, the fact that the Bistrot shares its kitchen with Michele Rostang is a good indicator of what is to come. Between their Gratin de Penne et Crème de Homard (my favorite) and their rotisserie veal for two, you’ll be lucky if you have room for their out-of-this-world Petits Pots De Crème. Perhaps the most satisfying part of the meal, however, is the after-dinner stroll down the block to see the posted menu of Michele Rostang, and noticing your 30 Eur. Entrée et Plat would barely get you a glass of wine there.
The Bistrot was featured as a set in the movie “Sarah’s Key”, but on our last visit still seemed blissfully undiscovered. Even so, reservations here are a must on the weekends, and the Bistrot is only open certain days during the week for lunch or dinner, so be sure to check before you go!
Reservations can be made through opentable.com or by visiting the restaurant’s website: http://www.bistrotflaubert.com/
Bistrot D’Acote Flaubert
10 Rue Gustave Flaubert
75017 Paris, France
Originally published on the travel blog Cobblestay.com before they folded.
