Mike C.
Yelp
Lulu La Nantaise, I love you. Quite possibly forever. I need to preface this feeling first. I'm not your typical traveler, so if you're offended easily STOP reading now. There are some people who travel outside of the US particularly and expect slightly "Frenchi-fied" versions of what they would eat in the US. What were y'all expecting? The land of the IHOP? If that's what your expectations are, pick up a book, watch the Travel Channel if reading is not your jam, and LEARN some history and respect for authentic food. With that out of my chest, moving on to the review.
When we arrived in Europe we did our best to avoid the touristy places, I so desperately wanted to experience the local life. We were so fortunate enough to have an Air BnB by the Canal St Martin in the 10th Arrondisement. And so extremely fortunate for us, it was a local hub. If Tourists were to be found, it's because they got off on the wrong stop to Notre Dame, Sacre Couer, or Tour de Eiffel. Yes, we had a view of all three from our window.
Walking through the busy streets of one of the most diverse neighborhoods I've seen so far in Europe, Lulu kept catching my eye. I wasn't sure at first, since, well, truthfully it was intimidating. I quickly learned that the French will immediately assume you speak French, especially in local parts, and my high school french was BARELY holding up.
One night, we decided that the aroma and visuals of people eating delightful crepes was enough to help me overcome my fear. We entered and I learned that in France, there's no "waiting" per se, but rather you pick an empty spot and a waiter will attend. So we picked a spot outside and perused the menu with hungry eyes. Et voila, tout la menu was in French. No worries, Google Translate and roaming charges to the rescue. I eventually settled on a classic, only because I didn't have the energy to google translate every item on the menu. But I'm so glad I did settle on this classic. Beurre Sucre or Butter and Sugar. I ordered.
A thin crepe the size of my plate arrived. The outer edges were folded in so it looked like a flat square. Wafting straight to my nose was the unmistakable smell of melted warm butter and the hint of sugar. That was one of the most heavenly bites I've ever had in my life. The closest I've come to this combination is the sugar and lemon, and while in itself is delicious, could not hold a candle to this other simple pair. Thin crepes were wonderfully brown, not crispy, and was the perfect canvas for the melted butter and sprinkling of sugar. When you bit into it, it opened your eyes why Europeans have a preference for simple flavors. Why? Because when executed perfectly it is heaven on earth.
If you want to experience authenticity, here's the place.