Bouillon Chartier

in Bistros & Restos 6th to 10th Arr.

My last visit to Bouillon Chartier, the always jam-packed Paris institution that bubbles with energy and good cheer was in 1995. Happy to report still decent food at ridiculous prices. Today’s visit was prompted by my friend and reader, Angela Bellante, who was in town and celebrating her Steinway birthday-she has as many years as Steinway has keys. After a complimentary kir royal we scanned the extensive menu of classic bistro dishes and ordered a bottle of Klipfel riesling.

My last visit to Bouillon Chartier, the always jam-packed Paris institution that bubbles with energy and good cheer was in 1995. Happy to report still decent food at ridiculous prices. Today’s visit was prompted by my friend and reader, Angela Bellante, who was in town and celebrating her Steinway birthday-she has as many years as Steinway has keys. After a complimentary kir royal we scanned the extensive menu of classic bistro dishes and ordered a bottle of Klipfel riesling.

Angela began with shrimp served with mayonnaise and I ordered the classic smoked herring with potatoes. Simple and delicious with a few sips of the bone dry riesling.

There was a nip in the air so ordered the choucroute and Angela ordered the  catch of the day, a whole roasted sea bass, and boy was I envious! Our waitress surprised us with an assortment of birthday desserts and we were so busy eating that I forgot to take a photograph. With the cake arrived a posse of servers, including Jean-Charles, who added an operatic baritone to the traditional birthday tune.

That served as encouragement, as if I needed any, for me to match him with a touch of Pavarotti that elicited a standing ovation for our duet, followed by kisses from women diners, as I navigated towards the exit. Before I left Jean-Charles revealed himself to be a fan of American rock and roll. especially Chuck Berry and Eddie Cochran.
The day was an unexpected blast and I’ ll be back soon.

Visit the website Chartier

Now open until midnite

 

  

 

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Bistros

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No one should have a bad meal in Paris! Whether a 2-star restaurant or a local bistro there should always be an excellent rapport qualité prix– relationship between price and quality. At my favorites you will be treated as a regular and have a satisfying experience. Just tell them  “Terrance sent you.”

Events

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Regularly scheduled literary salons with guest writers, private dinners, restaurant openings, wine tastings,market visits and cooking classes attract a discerning, sophisticated crowd who love to have a good time while they learn. Our cadre of Paris–based colleagues happily share their passion for this magical city.