Discover the charm of French provincial cuisine at Chez Tante Alice, a Parisian restaurant that offers a delightful dining experience. This hidden gem, nestled in the heart of the city, is the perfect place to indulge in traditional French dishes that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
Previously, I shared the exquisite dining experience at Chez Georges, a bastion of French culinary excellence. The question arose: could another restaurant captivate my palate as Chez Georges did? The answer came through an invitation from my friends Angelo and Vinni to dine at "Tantalis," or so I thought.
The name "Tantalis" initially conjured images of a modern, perhaps pretentious eatery. However, upon arrival, I realized my mistake. The restaurant's true name was Chez Tante Alice, evoking a sense of nostalgia and warmth, reminiscent of a beloved aunt's comforting home cooking.
Situated in the Southern part of Paris's 10th district, a mere stroll from Place de la République, Chez Tante Alice greets patrons with its modern facade and classic burgundy signage. Inside, the decor is tastefully rustic, with wood accents and Vichy-style tablecloths that transport you to a cozy Normandy inn.
Upon entering, we were greeted by one of the co-owners and promptly seated. The restaurant boasts an additional dining area upstairs, catering to the lunchtime crowd from nearby businesses. At 7:30 pm, the ambiance was lively yet conducive to intimate conversations.
The menu at Chez Tante Alice is a testament to French terroir cuisine, offering a curated selection of traditional countryside dishes. For starters, I chose pan-seared cepes (boletus mushrooms), followed by a main course of pan-fried duck liver, a true delicacy.
Our hostess, also the chef, was more than willing to guide us through the menu and wine selection. We appreciated her honest recommendation to reconsider our initial wine choice, a testament to the integrity of the establishment. Nevertheless, we opted for a half-bottle of red Chinon from the Touraine region.
The service at Chez Tante Alice is unhurried, reflecting the care put into preparing each dish to order. The cepes arrived with a robust earthy aroma and a generous portion size, paired perfectly with the light, fruity red wine.
The main course, the pan-fried duck liver, was prepared with skill, melting in the mouth without the need for chewing. The Chinon wine complemented the dish beautifully, though some may prefer a white wine such as Gewürztraminer, Loupiac, or Sauternes.
To finish, I indulged in scoops of vanilla and coffee ice cream, which lived up to their tantalizing menu descriptions. A double espresso provided the ideal endnote to the meal.
The total bill came to approximately €35 per person ($43), including wine, which was quite reasonable for the quality of the meal and the overall experience. Chez Tante Alice is a restaurant I wholeheartedly recommend for anyone seeking authentic French cuisine in Paris.
Chez Tante Alice 31-33 rue du Château d’Eau 75010 Paris Tel: 33 (0)1 42 40 62 34 Open for lunch and dinner
For more information on French provincial cuisine and its rich history, you can explore resources like France Today or The Spruce Eats. If you're planning a trip to Paris and want to include Chez Tante Alice in your itinerary, consider checking out Paris Info for additional recommendations and travel tips.
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