Paris

Our arrival in Paris at around 11 am marked the beginning of an exciting day filled with exploration and gastronomic delights. Since our baggage was already checked through to Biarritz, we had the opportunity to spend the day immersing ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Paris. Our first destination was Les Enfants du Marche, a bustling market teeming with lively crowds. The air was abuzz with the sounds of people going about their daily routines, creating an atmosphere of energy and excitement. As we settled into the charming ambiance, we decided to treat ourselves to a delightful culinary experience. We started with a bottle of Vignes, savoring its rich and flavorful notes. To accompany our wine, we indulged in a mouthwatering dish of shrimp served with saffron mayo, a combination that delighted our taste buds with its perfect blend of flavors. Additionally, we couldn't resist trying the baby scallops, which turned out to be a true delicacy and left us craving for more.

The highlight of our meal was the steak. As we watched the food handling practices, we marveled at the stark contrast to what we were accustomed to in the United States. Various cuts of meat were displayed openly on the countertop, inviting us with their enticing appearance. We couldn't resist the temptation and promptly placed an order. The first bite of the tender, juicy steak confirmed that our decision was absolutely spot-on. Its flavor surpassed our expectations, leaving us thoroughly impressed. To round off our feast, we indulged in a perfect tart tartine. Its delicate pastry base was drizzled with fragrant olive oil, and the crowning touch came in the form of toasted hazelnuts on the top. Each bite was a symphony of flavors, combining the buttery pastry, the fruity notes of the olive oil, and the satisfying crunch of the hazelnuts. As we savored the last morsels of our dessert, we couldn't help but appreciate the unique charm of experiencing food in a different cultural context. The juxtaposition of flavors, the relaxed food handling, and the culinary traditions all contributed to a memorable dining experience that we will cherish for years to come.