Oh la la, Paris! The home of fashion models, Chanel, double cheek kisses…
And land snails.
Qu’est-ce que c’est!!??
Land snails, more appropriately named Escargot because it sounds much fancier, delicate, proper, and Parisian.
Paris – the home of fashion models, Chanel, double cheek kisses, and escargot. Yes, that sounds better.
For the best escargot in Paris, visit Le Comptoir Du Relais.
This tiny bistro is always jam packed, so expect a wait. My advice is to go during off hours, although the French love eating a fashionably late lunch, so you’ll most likely still have to wait.
I can promise you that the wait is well worth it for the tender and flavorful escargot where you’ll need an entire baguette to yourself to fully soak up all the buttery garlic goodness.
So you’re familiar with the proper way to eat escargot, don’t try to grab with your bare hands! Hold the shell with the tong provided in one hand, a snail fork in the other to extract the meat. Swirl around in the mouth-watering sauce and voila! You’re French.
Reservations are not accepted for lunch and weekends when a brasserie type menu is served. You can book a reservation for a weeknight set menu, but book well in advance. Chef Yves Camdeborde is doing something right, highlighted by the praise from Anthony Bourdain among other trusted sources.
For an app while you wait, head next door to the little secret I’ll fill you in on, L’Avant Comptoir. Hidden behind an unassuming crepe stand is Chef Yves Camdeborde’s casual hors d’oeuvres spot. Mingle with new French friends as you snack around the bar (there are no chairs).
It goes without saying, but you better save room for the escargot next door!
