Curious if some of the restaurants Julia speaks about in her book still exist, I dived into the web. So, the restaurant Laperouse is apparently still running, and looks amazing. Their website indicates they've been in operation since 1766! Julia went here for her 40th birthday, describing it as a three star restaurant. I love the way she honestly confesses that they chose to sit at the back to watch people as part of their celebration.
She also reports that earlier in the same day, as Paul couldnt obtain a reservation in any other fine dining establismnent, they decided to have a meal at the Rtiz. So, again, I couldnt help going to have a look. This image seemed to fit the event of Julia's birthday.
The menu contains everything – champignon à la Grecque, foie gras in slabs the size of house bricks, steak au poivre – you need to find here. Outside in Rue du Mail it is 2013. Inside it is always 1946. For here is the thing. Paris is unashamed of its clichés. It works them.
For some reason, Julia Childs references to many Parisian Restaurants, still gets attention. Tourists it seems, love the way Julia talks about her experience in Paris. Perhaps Julia's descriptions made these places more accessible to the english speaking world? perhaps her fame just romantised the Parisienne food scene... she did invite us into her experience, and maybe ignited something of a dream for many of us...
I for one, would love to get back to Paris one day - to see some of these long standing transitions - but also visit some of todays most contemporary chefs at play... Have a look at this article to be inspired for your next foody insired visit to Paris.
For now, I'm content with watching Masterchef Finale this week in Australia, with our own French Jean-Christophe Novelli | Chef. ...
As for Paris in July 2026 - I'm not done yet.. I'll come back soon.
