Which restaurants did you visit and which were your most memorable meals?

In Paris, I went to Plenitude at Cheval Blanc Hotel, Epicure by Chef Eric Frechon at Le Bristol Paris, Alleno Paris by Yannick Alléno at Jardins des Champs-Élysées, L’Ambrosie by Bernard Pacaud at Place des Vosges, and Le Grand Restaurant by Jean-François Piège. When I was in Reims, I dined at L’Assiette Champenoise and Restaurant Le Parc in Domaine Les Crayeres.

All my meals in France were great, but I particularly enjoyed Plentitude. The cuisine and service is exceptional. I loved how Chef Arnaud Donckele expressed his creativity in his sauces and made every dish so beautifully executed and delicious which is most important.

Did you head to any hidden gems that only locals know?

I went to La Maison de l’Aubrac near Champs-Elysées for their great steaks and tasty appetisers. The beef is sourced from the owner’s farm in Laguiole, Aveyron, southern France.

Udon Kisin (7-9 Rue de Ponthieu) served the best udon I’ve ever eaten – even comparable with Japan. Sometimes we crave some noodles and hot soup after a long trip in Europe.

I also visited Brasserie de Louvre – Bocuse [temporarily closed for renovation]. This wasn’t on our radar initially, but it’s conveniently located in our hotel (Hôtel du Louvre) hence we decided to try. It turned out unexpectedly great as it was the last meal of our trip. It offers casual bistro fare but the flavours are refined. The service was friendly too.

Are there any casual bistros/ bakeries that you would recommend in Paris?

I would recommend La Petit Regalade (14 , rue Daunou) for simple and tasty bistro food.

For pastries, go to Cedric Grolet Opera for the Mont Blanc Flower with shortcrust pastry, chestnut cream, hazelnut praline and vanilla whipped cream. I also recommend Ritz Paris Le Comptoir’s marble cake dessert made of vanilla and chocolate.

What edible souvenirs should people buy from Paris?

Chocolate from Alain Ducasse – I bought a lot for gifting including the hazelnut praline with fleur de sel and 45% milk chocolate filled bar. Also the madeleines from Le Comptoir.

Which dining destinations do you want to visit for your next trip to France?

There are too many restaurants in my bucket list, but just to mention a few, I’d like to go to
Mirazur, Le Cinq , La Grenouillere, Flocons de Sel and Restaurant Kei.

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