 One of the most confusing things for visitors to Paris is figuring out the tip system. Unlike the United States where tips are expected (and considered part of the wages paid), in France by law, service compris is always included in the price, wherever you eat or drink. Waiters are paid a living wage, similar to what someone who works in a store or bakery is paid….
I don’t like to stir things up too much around here. Last time I did that, I got my ass kicked in the comments. Truth be told, I’m a people-person and try to see the good in everything and everybody no matter what. Heck, I’m even listening to Up With People! as I’m typing right now… I don’t like to trash people or companies in…
I was excited to finally visit the famed kitchen of La Maison du Chocolat, just outside of Paris. Robert Linxe, who was born in the Basque region founded La Maison du Chocolat. He was one the major proponents of using ganache in his chocolates; that slightly-airy amalgamation of chocolate and cream. Then he went on to develop a flavor palette of ganache-based chocolates…and the rest…
Because I’m out of my mind, once I get something stuck in my craw, I’m not okay until I get it all figured out once and for all. I guess that’s why I’m a baker. Because I’m insane. When I got my new espresso maker, I became obsessed with that too, and I needed to figure out how to pull the best espresso out of…
Just a note that there’s just one space left on my upcoming Paris Chocolate Exploration Tour with chocolate-expert, author Mort Rosenblum. Included in this week-long adventure is a demonstration at the exclusive laboratoire of chocolatier Jacques Genin, a private chocolate tasting at La Maison du Chocolat, a shopping tour of one of the best outdoor markets in Paris, and in-depth visits to the most spectacular…
Do you want to know… The reason I’ll never have my own television program…(page 109) What a barely-there string bikini, high heels and world peace have in common with mango sorbet…(page 108) Why you might find me, nearly-naked, standing on your sidewalk someday…(page 141) The final installment of the trilogy, concluding my lifetime of disappointment…(page 88) Why I fear the ‘apple autocrat’…(page 110) What were…
You will love those Friendship Bars. Packed with dried fruits and nuts, and low in fat, they’re great for an energy boost at home or on the go. I like to bring them on trips with me but they’re also good around the Christmas holiday since the flavors resemble fruitcake, but are much more welcome! Adapted from Pure Dessert by Alice Medrich Feel free to…
Spring in Paris is truly a glorious time. Even though this winter was relatively mild, it’s nice to peel off the wool scarves and mittens that we’ve all been bundling ourselves up in to ward off the damp, chilly air and start packing them away. Deep-scarlet strawberries start appearing at the market and cafés waiters across the city slide extra seats outside as all of…
Since it’s the end of the week, or depending on when you’re reading this, it’s the beginning of the week, I thought I’d finish up with some of my last images and thoughts from my time hosted by Illy coffee in Trieste. Without a doubt the most popular person in Trieste is the barista at Illy’s coffee bar for the employees. From the moment we…
A
Get David's newsletter sent right to your Inbox!
Sign up for my newsletter and get my FREE guidebook to the best bakeries and pastry shops in Paris...
