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Café Review: Angelina’s

// December 6th, 2009 // Comments // Cafes

Having followed Paris blogs closely since I first decided to move to Paris, I’ve discovered that there is one common thread between them all–they have all written a blog post about the best hot chocolate in Paris: Angelina’s. So, it’s time to become part of the group.

Angelina's, Paris, France

Since having opened in 1903, Angelina’s has unquestionably become the most well known hot chocolate in all of Paris and potentially that of France, as well. Word has it that Angelina’s once drew the likes of Audrey Hepburn and Coco Chanel and while you might not seem famous faces when you visit, you will certainly see happy ones. While it is clear that the café itself is worth seeing–designed in an early 19th Century decor–the thing that truly draws people to Angelina’s is the hot chocolate. This specialty of the house is actually a variety of hot chocolate called Chocolat Africain (translation: African Hot Chocolate). This isn’t your everyday powdered Nestle’s hot chocolate mix, but instead a a teapot filled with melted milk chocolate covered in freshly made whip cream. Those people who are not fans of rich chocolate should be aware that Angelina’s hot chocolate is made for the die-hard chocolate-lovers out there. But I must say, even though I am not a huge fan of chocolate, I thoroughly enjoyed my cup.

Neither the hot chocolate, nor the meals (which I also hear are good), run cheap at Angelina’s. Regardless, it’s still worth stopping in for a nice warm drink on a cold day. The ambiance is pleasant, the service is above par (for Paris), and the drinks are good. After you finish up, consider crossing the street and to take a stroll through the beautiful Tuilerie Gardens.

Hidden Treasures of Paris: Jardin du Palais Royal (1st Arrond.)

// October 18th, 2009 // Comments // Cafes, Treasures

Another splendid Fall afternoon in Paris and another beautiful treasure to discover. For some time I have read and heard about the garden that sits inside the Palais Royal, so I decided that it was finally time to check it out. Completed in 1629, the Palais Royal was originally the home of Cardinal Richelieu. The scenic garden that sits within the Palais’ interior, the Jardin du Palais Royal, was originally created by the duchesse d’Orléans (otherwise known as “Madame”) in 1784.

Jardin du Palais Royal, Paris, France

Today, the Palais Royal houses the Conseil d’État, the Constitutional Council, and the Ministry of Culture. Although popular among Parisians who want to spend a leisurely afternoon reading or sipping a coffee at one of the garden cafés, the fact that the garden itself is tucked away within the interior of the Palais makes it one of the lesser known gardens/courtyards in Paris when it comes to the average tourist. The garden itself is quite exquisite, with double-rows of trees running along both sides of the garden–providing visitors some much needed shade during the summer months. Two lawns, separated by a pond/fountain, sit between adjacent rows of trees. For those who are looking to do more than walk through the garden, plenty of benches and chairs are provided.

As previously mentioned, one of the more popular aspects of the garden are the several cafés that surround the perimeter of the courtyard. I took the time to grab a coffee at the one them (the name escapes me at the moment) and it was without question one of the more pleasant café experiences I have had in Paris. The view: fountains, rows of trees, children chasing one another, couples walking hand-in-hand–all very “Parisesque,” if you ask me. Next time you visit the Louvre, take a half hour to hop over to the Jardin du Palais Royal for some much needed respite from the museum’s crowds.

Want to see photos from my visit?: Photos of Palais Royal Garden

Want to see a video from my visit? Palais Royal Garden Video

Want to see this location on a map? Map of My Visits

Paris Cafe Review: Le Berkeley (8th Arrond.)

// September 17th, 2009 // Comments // Cafes

For my next review, I decided it was time to check out one of my neighborhood cafes. This week it was Le Berkeley in the 8th arrondissement. Roughly a 20 second walk from my door, this relatively chic hotel bar and restaurant sits on the corner of Avenue Matignon and Avenue Gabriel.

Le Berkeley, Paris, France

Built in the 1920’s, Le Berkeley provides its guests with a beautiful setting, both inside and out. Red is the color of choice in this fancy joint, with chairs, couches and walls draped in red velvet. Beautiful paintings surround diners as they eat and should you find the need to visit les toilettes, you’ll make your way up one of two splendid wooden staircases. While the interior is extremely pleasant, for those who are only stopping by for a drink (as I was), I recommend sitting at one of the cozy tables outside. With a pleasant view of the park across the street and heat lamps to keep you warm on a cold day, Le Berkeley makes for the perfect place to spend a chilly fall afternoon.

The presentation of your drink will match the classy atmosphere of the restaurant itself. My hot chocolate came with a petite carafe of pure chocolate syrup and a separate cup of steaming hot milk–allowing you to mix the perfect hot chocolate, just the way you like it. At €6, however, you’re definitely paying more for the atmosphere than the hot chocolate itself. While the outdoor tables are perfect for a drink or coffee with a friend, I wouldn’t recommend Le Berkeley to someone looking for a place to do some afternoon leisure reading. Though I can’t speak from experience, I get the feeling that Le Berkley is not the type of establishment that welcomes those of us who like to read for a couple of hours over a café crème. That said,  the tables outside are still quite enjoyable and I would suggest that anyone check this place out at least once. If you’re going to Le Berkeley for more than a drink, however, be warned. I hear that while the atmosphere is exquisite, the food is not. Chances are your meal will fall short of your expectations and will leave a sizable dent in your wallet, as well.

Want to see this location on a map? Map of My Visits