Paris: Where To Eat

The first thing I do when I go to a new city is research where to eat. Since arriving in Paris, my go-to sources have been: David Lebovitz, Oh Happy Day, and this list from local friends. Here is a roundup of some of our favorite spots so far (apologies in advance for the selfies...we're kind of a one trick pony when it comes to iPhone photos):

1. Aux Tonneaux des Halles - This is a traditional French brasserie that is on the cute Rue Montorgueil. There are cute cafés and brasseries on every corner, but we quickly learned that many of them are owned by larger chains. It's tough to discern the okay ones from the great ones. Aux Tonneaux des Halles is independently owned and very good. We had Steak Frites and a bottle of the house red wine. We forgot to take a photo of the food here (fail!) but take my word for it that it's great! The fries are really crispy (they cook them twice as long here) and the desserts are also amazing.

2. West Country Girl - Delicious buckwheat crêpes and galettes that put the street vendor version to shame. The savory and sweet crêpes are thin and crispy and filled with delicious, fresh ingredients. I had the sausage, cheese, and leek savory crêpe (Lucas had the ham and cheese, of course) and we each had the salted butter caramel for dessert (Lucas opted for the apple and ice cream version). The crêpes pair well with sparkling cider. This place was cozy, delicious, and inexpensive. We'll definitely be back here!

3. Coutume Café - Really, really good coffee. We've tried cappuccinos, lattes, pour overs, and everything has been excellent. The coffee in Paris is very good in general, but this is by far the best we've had. We tried some of the breakfast/brunch food (granola/yogurt & banana bread) and it's just okay. I'd skip food and go just for coffee.

4. Le Pain Quotidien - A nice regional chain of cafés (think: similar to La Boulange in SF). It's a great place to grab coffee, fresh veggie juice, quiche, open faced sandwiches, and salads. It's good yet inexpensive by Parisian standards. I had the lentil soup du jour and the warm goat cheese salad.

5. Le Relais de l'Entrecôte - Warning: this place is touristy. We've tried to avoid these places in general, but Le Relais was recommended by David Lebovitz and it's really good. They only serve one thing: steak frites. Their fries are really crispy and their steak is served in a delicious herb sauce. We shared a half bottle of their house red, which was actually fantastic. Bonus: they come by and refill your plate with a second portion. This is why my plate looks so full yet messy. :) It was an all around great meal.

What am I missing? Any favorite spots in Paris?