The Bouillons of Paris
Have you ever wondered when the first restaurants came about?
Well, of course, people have been selling food in a variety of ways for ages:
from carts on the street to roadside inns and taverns. But, according to most
experts, the original “sit down at a table, look at a menu, and order your meal”
type of establishments paralleled the growth of cities, notably in France.
Statistics show that before the start of the French Revolution in 1789 there
were fewer than 50 restaurants in Paris; twenty or so years later the number
had grown to over 3,000. These early locations were places of distinction
intended for the elite. By the mid-1800s, however, a completely new genre of
restaurant appeared: le bouillon.
As its name suggests, a bouillon’s primary offering was a
broth, served with meat and vermicelli noodles. The idea originated, so it’s
said, with Pierre Louis Duval, a butcher at Les
Halles—the fresh food market formerly found in the French capital’s first
arrondissement. Duval decided to take leftover meat scraps and make hot,
one-dish meals to sell to fellow market workers as well as to the labor force
of the ongoing urban renewal program. The menu expanded and the quick, quality
food at affordable prices caught on big time— with the working class and wealthy
members of the bourgeoisie. Soon over 250 bouillons dotted the downtown
landscape. Some, extravagantly decorated in the popular Art Nouveau style of the
late nineteenth century, provided low-cost meals in a high-class setting.
The good news is that some of these lavish restaurants have
been restored to their initial glory. Not only that. Due to what the contemporary
restaurant guide Le Fooding calls “le
rétrofoodisme,” bouillons are once again serving classic French cuisine at very
low prices. And since many modern French people don’t have the time to prepare their
old favorite comfort foods such as soupe
à l’oignon, pot-au-feu, and the
like, they are flocking to the new bouillons. Before Cheapo Snobs rush to
follow suit, though, let it be known that some Snobs have reported that the ambiance
is often much more appetizing than the actual meal!
Le Chartier, in
operation since 1896 at 7, rue du Faubourg Montmartre (9th), can
really give you a taste of old Paris. In keeping with tradition, the current prices
from starters to desserts are unbeatable; to give you an idea, main dishes like
confit de canard or blanquette de veau go from 8,50 to 13,50 euros…or about $9.50 to
$15. But some disappointed diners say that both the service and the food are
mediocre at best. Reviews are better for a revived branch of the Chartier across from the Montparnasse
train station (6th). The setting is even more spectacular, too, with
touches of brass and wood, tiled walls, and etched globe lights (pictured).
Two other old-timers are the Julien in the 10th and the Racine in the 6th. Both opened for business in 1906,
have been meticulously restored, and are designated historical landmarks. The Julien—with its mahogany bar, stained
glass, high ceilings, mirrors, and murals—was once the preferred spot of singer
Édith Piaf. The current version tries to live up to the original motto: “Ici
tout est beau, bon et pas cher” (“Everything here is beautiful, good, and not
expensive”). Unfortunately not everyone agrees with the “good” part for the cuisine.
One Trip Advisor reviewer, for instance, described his meal as “truck stop
food”! But at 20 euros for 3 courses and a glass of wine, I might give it a
whirl. The striking Racine (see photo) on the Left Bank is a bouillon in name only. Snobs might be tempted by the
surroundings, but neither they nor Cheapos would enjoy spending 50 euros for 3
unexceptional courses.
A newcomer, established November 2017, is located in
Montmartre across from the Pigalle métro stop…and is, in fact, called Bouillon Pigalle (18th). The
300-seat modern style restaurant is open seven days a week from noon to
midnight. And while lacking the Art Nouveau atmosphere, it gets rave reviews in
the food department. Everything is made on the premises with products from Rungis, the current version of Les Halles market. Three-course meals for
17 euros have made this place extremely popular, attracting from 800 to 1000
customers daily. If you go, get there before or past rush hours as they don’t
take reservations. Plans are to open a second branch this year at place de la République.
So, if you’re in the mood for home-style French cooking at a
bargain basement price, check out these bouillons. There’s sure to be something
satisfying for the Cheapo and the Snob.
For more about the French capital, take a look at my
recently published book—Pilgrimage to
Paris: The Cheapo Snob’s Guide to the City and the Americans Who Lived There.
21 comments:
hmm
Its full of information I am looking for and I love to post a comment that "The content of your post is awesome" Great work. Massachusetts interior decorator
Nice one for discussing the knowledge. I recently uncovered the info tremendously valuable.
Interior decorator
Fake cartier replica Watch for sale: Low Price Japan Grade and Swiss Movement Cartier Watch Replica for Sale Ship to worldwide.
While buying a strong and durable bed is worth it in the long run, your child also should have a say when selecting his bed. toddler bunk bed with slide
Very informative article, which you have shared here about the illy Rachi. After reading your article I got very much information and it is very useful for us. I am thankful to you for sharing this article here.illy Rachi
offers many programs from relaxing spas to extreme sports. In the case of the men, we all know they never grow up - in many ways it doesn't matter how old they are, so we just let them play! They can be soldiers and play real to life war games with mock machine guns with Airsoft or Paintball. Immobilien in Budapest
Your mattress should be replaced when it's no longer providing adequate support for any of these critical areas of your body. In order to determine whether your mattress is in need of a replacement ask yourself these questions: fleet mattress
You can buy top-quality and cheap Breitling replica online. Buy the best quality cheap Breitling replica watches online. Buy cheap 1:1 high-quality fake Breitling replica as gifts.
cheap breitling replica
Supersite! I am loving it!! Will return once more. I'm taking your sustenance in addition. Thanks Weed for sale Uk
I am thankful to this blog giving unique and helpful knowledge about this topic.breitling replica shop
I have a soft spot for a good mechanical trigger, and I have owned and shot hundreds of Best Mechanical Paintball Gun over the years. There were a few of them that just really stood out as a great marker to hit the field with.I have a few great mechs listed below that will be great for anyone just getting into the sport to those experienced players looking for a smooth shooter to hit the field with.
I liked your work and, as a result, the manner you presented this content about Sell Cartier Watch.It is a valuable paper for us. Thank you for sharing this blog with us.
Inspiring Young Minds to Learn With Montessori Toys
Montessori sorting toy
The Bouillons of Paris interior design post was truly breathtaking. The attention to detail and use of vintage pieces blended seamlessly with modern elements to create a unique and inviting atmosphere. The color palette was beautifully curated and the use of natural light enhanced the overall ambiance. I was particularly impressed with the use of vintage posters and art, it added a touch of nostalgia and character to the space. Overall, the design was truly a work of art and I couldn't help but imagine myself sitting in one of the cozy booths, sipping on a warm bouillon. Bravo! I also remember that the Top Interior Designers In Chennai also provide a professional service similar to this.
It's fascinating to learn about the intricate and historical bouillons of Paris. The fact that these restaurants were constructed in a way that prioritized efficiency and affordability while still maintaining elegance and beauty is a testament to the ingenuity of the builders and architects of the time. The use of materials such as glass, iron, and concrete allowed for larger and more open spaces, making it possible to serve a large number of customers. The architectural style and design of these bouillons are an important part of the cultural and historical heritage of Paris and should be preserved for future generations to appreciate.I also remember that Building Contractors In Chennai also provides a professional service similar to this.
The Information in this article is very usefull and interesting. I can see your posts thanks for shairing this beautiful toys with us. Here is my website please visit : Toys For 1 Year Old
The brand is renowned for its high-quality and stylish electronic gadgets, and now it offers an array of home decor items in Pakistan that are equally impressive. From elegant and functional LED desk lamps to trendy and practical phone holders, Baseus has it all.
Wall lights in Pakistan are a popular lighting option for homes and offices, providing a soft ambient glow that can enhance the decor of any room. Hanging lights, on the other hand, are perfect for dining or living rooms, providing a dramatic focal point while also offering functional lighting.
Wow, what a delightful read about the bouillons of Paris! 🍲 Your vivid descriptions took me on a culinary journey. By the way, have you considered exploring the charm of bouillons in a modern context, like in modular kitchen Chennai?
Thank you for sharing useful information. https://dqarchitects.in/
Post a Comment