I've been going to Paris with some frequency since 2018, usually staying in Montmartre. I go each year to play music with local musicians. It's always a joyful and rewarding experience for me after working around the clock in theater and television in New York City.
I frequently begin and end each day at Le Vrai because of both the staff and the quality. The chef is a genius as far as I'm concerned. Maybe I shouldn't say this, but after I heard some of the staff privately discussing the attack on the World Trade Center (it was the 20th), I let them know that I was under it when it happened. Upon hearing this they made an incredible gesture and I was treated to a special dinner by the chef that was not available to anyone else that night. I was very moved by this
The truth was that I had actually chose to come to France in September, 2021 because I couldn't come for my 50th birthday in 2020- the covid situation being the factor for the delay. But I also wanted to get away from all the media coverage that I knew would be coming in the US. With smiles and a few laughs, the folks at Le Vrai made me feel welcome in a way I won't forget.
One point I need to mention. I consider the bartender, Naveen, to be a friend. We've had more than a few late night chats and I've been treated to some of the best cocktails I've ever had. He's quite possibly the best of all the bartenders in Paris, and I've heard MANY others say the same exact thing- "the best." I really can't say enough about him.
While sitting outside at the cafe tables where you might find servers Teddy and Jack (they're AWESOME and keep that place running smooth), why not slide over after dinner and join Naveen at the bar before you go? I recommend getting a manhattan, they're top notch.
To be clear, everyone that I encountered from the staff (on any of my visits) was warm, friendly and professional. It was really great to see everyone in May this year, with spring being so beautiful in Paris. But during that September 2021 trip, Le Vrai was actually featured in a New York Times article, so if you don't believe me? Check it out when you go.
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Le Vrai Paris
With its huge terrace and pink flowers adorning the façade, Le Vrai Paris side eyes anyone passing by rue des Abbesses. We wen to try this new typically French bistro for you.
Within walking distance from Place des Abbesses and its Art Déco versatile alter ego Le Sancerre, opened a few months by the same manager, stands Le Vrai Paris.
This bistro claims the pure tradition of Parisian bistro, but the ham and cheese sandwich excluded. Red leather armchairs, waiters dressed in white and black and falsely old-looking menu, the place architecture and décor (carried out by Emma Roux and Christopher Matignon) do a lot in this Paris-Parisian atmosphere.
Moving on to the menu, we find classics such as the traditional onion soup, rillettes du Mans, or chocolate mousse or even a burger (yes, a burger is now a classic). As for us, we fell for the snails (€9 for 6), revisited and shell-less and bathing in a smooth cream that we wipe with greed with a crispy slice of baguette and that we enjoy as an appetizer. We accompany these with two homemade cocktails we love because they are balanced and ultra-fresh: the Season’s Smash (gin, seasonal fruits, €11) and the Pimm’s Cup (Pimm’s, lemonade, citrus fruits and cucumber, €12).
Let’s continue with the very tender lamb shanks candied with garlic and served with mashed potatoes (€18) and Le Vrai Paris burger (€20.5), with trickling cheddar. Ultra-hearty and delicious, big eaters will be happy. that is to say we give up dessert (meringue lemon pie, French toast, coffee with gourmet desserts and many more)…
But, what a terrace! It’s rare to see one this big and this sunny (except at Le Sancerre): a priceless luxury when everyone is out to enjoy sweet summer nights.
In two words, Le Vrai Paris will please tourists looking for very French dishes and avoiding any swindle, as well as Parisians loving frank and...
Read moreI took my wife to dine at Le Vrai Paris on the evening of January 4th, 2024, and it was an experience we will cherish for a long time. Right from the moment we stepped in, the restaurant welcomed us with its beautifully decorated interior and charmingly dim lighting, setting the stage for a cozy dining experience.
The service was impeccable, largely thanks to our wonderful waitress, Leila. She was not only friendly but also incredibly knowledgeable, taking the time to suggest and thoroughly explain the day's specials as well as other standout items on the menu. On her recommendation, we opted for the shrimp and truffle risotto and the boeuf bourguignon, both of which were simply exquisite. The risotto was perfectly creamy, with the shrimp cooked to perfection, while the boeuf bourguignon had a depth of flavor that was truly memorable.
When it came to choosing a wine, Leila's expertise shone once again. She recommended a St Emilion Grand Cru that was an absolute delight and paired seamlessly with the boeuf bourguignon, enhancing the flavors of the dish beautifully.
To conclude our meal, we indulged in the crème brûlée. The vanilla flavor was rich and authentic, and the texture of the cream was flawless, making for a sublime dessert that perfectly rounded off our meal.
Our recommendations from this wonderful dining experience are without a doubt the risotto and the boeuf bourguignon. Le Vrai Paris not only impressed us with its culinary offerings but also left a lasting impression with its warm hospitality and the outstanding service provided by Leila. It's a gem in Paris that we look forward to...
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