The portion sizes (so far at least) are surprising large and really not that expensive. Perhaps the parsians are trying to compete with our North American `standards` to accomodate the hoards of tourists. I would be happy to pay more for a lot less. Will continue my search to find what I understand to be authentic parisian dining - delicious small portions and outrageous prices.
For dining in, finding good wines and fresh ingredients at the local épicerie is easy. Preparing a late afternoon platter of antipasti is no problem.
Our 13 euro bottle of sauterne, a slice of foie gras, assorted cheeses, pain aux noisettes, crudités, almond stuffed olives, sun-dried tomato antipasto.
Cooking in an small unfamiliar kitchen is challenging. The appliances are surprisingly good quality though for a rental - Siemens refrigerator, cooktop, oven and dishwasher. Electrolux сafetière and toaster (good size for toasting leftover baguette for breakfast). I have managed a couple of tasty meals though.
Hey Gabe & Julia look! even we have whipped cream with our breakfast (sometimes).
Second and third time for me, not so successful either. By the fourth try - partially. But there`s always next weekend.
Bon appétit from Paris!
Post Script:
For those of you who may visit the City of Lights in the future or if we should be so lucky for a repeat visit next year, I have discovered http://www.elegantcooking.com/. Muriel Marguerite provides not only cooking classes but epicurean walking tours through the streets of Paris.
Quote from Muriel:``Tours run each Wednesday, last about 2.5 hours, and allow you to taste many delicious French delicacies! Each tour will take you to a French open air market, to a bakery, to a cheese store and will end at a chocolate store.``
Quote from me: ``sigh...PERFECTION!....``
I contacted her before we left Montreal but sadly her next opening wasn`t until the beginning of September.
