Both of us arrived in France during our twenties--John for a role at Activision and Mashama to attend culinary school. Our passion for Paris blossomed in unique ways. After successfully launching The Grey in Savannah, we began dreaming about opening a restaurant in the heart of Paris. Our recent trip was aimed at revising our book, Black, White, and The Grey, and after indulging in the local cuisine for a few months, we were inspired to seek out a location.
We are thrilled to announce the opening of L'Arrêt in the 7th arrondissement. As we embark on this exciting journey, we are in the early stages of assembling our team. The building itself has a rich history, having housed a restaurant for over a century, and we undertook significant renovations to preserve its charm, which had remained untouched since the early 1970s. Our vision is to blend American culture and hospitality with the essence of Parisian dining, creating connections with locals who appreciate this fusion.
As we become more integrated into the Parisian dining scene, we have been revisiting our favorite spots and discovering new inspirations. Here are some of the restaurants that have captured our hearts:
Chez Marcel
Located on Rue de Stanislas, this charming bistro is run by the charismatic Pierre Cheucle. Known for its traditional Lyonnais cuisine, the highlight of the menu includes kidneys served with a flavorful mustard sauce. When prepared correctly, they are a delicacy worth savoring.
7 Rue Stanislas. Open Monday to Friday, noon to 2 p.m. and 7:30 to 10 p.m.; closed Saturday and Sunday.
Brasserie Lipp
This spot has become our late-night retreat, reminiscent of a scene from Cheers. We enjoy the camaraderie with the staff and often find ourselves ordering green salads, roast chicken, and steak frites, lingering until the early hours of the morning.
151 Boulevard Saint-Germain; open daily from noon to midnight.
Marché Raspail
Every Sunday, we visit this vibrant market to stock up on fresh produce for the week. It's a delightful experience getting to know the vendors and enjoying the warm interactions, especially with the local dogs that often accompany us.
Boulevard Raspail; open Friday and Tuesday from 7 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.; closed on Saturday, Sunday, Monday, and Thursday.
Ravi
Just a short walk from L'Arrêt, Ravi serves traditional Indian dishes with a welcoming atmosphere. The lamb saag is a must-try, and the owner's presence adds a personal touch to each visit.
50 Rue de Verneuil; open Monday to Saturday from noon to 2 p.m. and 7 to 11 p.m.; 7 to 11 p.m. on Sundays.
La Grande Épicerie de Paris
This upscale food hall offers an extensive selection of gourmet products, including fresh seafood, charcuterie, and a variety of cheeses. It's the perfect place to gather ingredients for a delightful dinner at home.
38 Rue de Sèvres; open Monday to Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Our culinary journey in Paris is just beginning, and we look forward to sharing more of our experiences as we continue to explore this vibrant city.