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A Traveller’s Food Guide to Osaka

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A Complete Food Guide to Osaka

‘First we eat, then we do everything else’ – M.F.K. Fisher. And that is what you should do in Osaka!

Known as ‘tenka no daidokoro’ or “Nation’s Kitchen’ in the olden days, Osaka was a thriving port with access to goods from all over the world. With a nickname like that you know why foodies from all around the world pay Osaka a visit when they are in Japan. And you can rest assured that every meal you have in Osaka will pretty much be a good one.

While typical Japanese foods that come to mind would include sushi, ramen and udon, you will soon realise that you have barely scratched the surface. From the ingredients to the ancient techniques Japanese chefs use, Osaka has so much more to offer the tourist and traveler seeking an authentic dining experience.

With countless of restaurants and street stalls, this guide aims to present you with the top picks of the entire city that you HAVE to try on your first trip to Osaka!

1. Okonomiyaki – Houzenji SanPei 
Okonomiyaki is one of the most famous dishes in Osaka and definitely a must-try. It is a savoury Japanese pancake made with egg, flour and a variety of other ingredients, which can range from shredded cabbage to sliced meats. ‘Okonomi’ stands for ‘what you like’ or ‘what you want’ and ‘yaki’ means ‘grilled’ or ‘cooked’. Houzenji SanPei serves one of the most authentic versions of Okonomiyaki in Osaka and is where all the locals head to get their fix. The Okonomiyaki served there tastes amazing. You will just have to go and try it for yourself!

takoyaki

2.  Takoyaki Wanaka @ Kuromon Ichiba Market 
Takoyaki is known to be one of the most favourite Japanese street foods, especially in Osaka. You can go almost anywhere along the streets of Japan to get some good Takoyaki and they almost never fail. However, Takoyaki Wanaka always has rows of queues in front of its stall.. So what’s so good about it?

In case you aren’t familiar with takoyaki, it is basically octopus covered in a flour batter and cooked till the exterior is nice and crispy – the resulting bite-sized balls are both great in taste as well as texture. They sprinkle an abundant amount of bonito flakes, which just takes this snack to another level of goodness. Do not be afraid of the long queues: they come and go pretty fast, as the service is superb. Waiting time is kept to a minimum but satisfaction is always at the maximum.

3. Takoyaki – Dotonbori Konamon Museum 
But hold up! There is another Takoyaki place that you should visit! They not only sell Takoyaki but there is a museum on the level above where you will be able to learn more about the culture and history of Dotonbori and learn about the roots of “konamon”, or flour-based foods.

4. Handmade Udon – Sanshu Udon 
Udon is probably one of the most versatile dishes in Japan. It can be cooked and eaten in so many different ways – Zaru Udon which is eaten cold, Kake Udon which is plain clear udon with broth eaten hot, Kitsune Udon served in hot broth and so much more.

In Osaka, you will find the Kansai version, where the udon is served in a lighter broth than the Kanto version in Tokyo.  For that, you can check out Sanshu Udon. They use natural ingredients and make their udon fresh every day by hand. If you are game to try something new, they also have a flavoursome Japanese curry udon on the menu.

kushikatsu-daruma

5. Kushikatsu – Kushikatsu Daruma
Kushikatasu is a must-try in Osaka. These delectable bite-sized portions of vegetables or meat are skewered, battered and deep fried to a crispy golden brown. Said to have originated from Shinsekai in Osaka, you can now find lots of kushikatsu restaurants all over Osaka.

One of the most popular places for Kushikatsu will be the famous Kushikatsu Daruma chain of restaurants in Osaka – they have been serving kushikatsu since 1929. The outlets are small, with counter seating only. There are over 30 different types of tasty morsels on sticks here, which includes beef, white fish and asparagus. You can dip the skewers in a special sauce (the dipping sauce that is meant for sharing, so do note not to double dip!) for maximum flavour.

oden

6. Oden at Kuromon Market 
I am sure all of you have some sort of impression that all Japanese food is always nicely presented and colourful…but not when it comes to this dull and not-very-pretty dish that is very well loved by all the Japanese. A dish that the Japanese will consume during winter to keep themselves warm, it includes a combination of radish, tofu, fish cake rolls and so many more! Despite the aesthetics of the dish, do not worry for it will definitely not disappoint.

7. Sushi – Tokisushi 
If there is any place you should go for sushi, it’s Tokisushi. The real deal conveyor belt sushi is priced very reasonably at Tokisushi. Enter the restaurant and sit at the counter tables to order your sushi just like the locals do. You can eat to your heart’s content as each plate of sushi is priced at only 158 yen each! Serving dishes such as the Toki Yaki, Toro, Uni, and the amazing Torigai (Japanese egg cockle).

ramen

8. Ramen – Ramen Yashichi 
Aside from sushi, Ramen is the next most quintessentially Japanese dish, and something that the Japanese take very seriously. Stop any Japanese along the road and ask them which shop is their favourite and e will bet that Ramen Yashichi will certainly be mentioned. It is ranked 39 on review website Tabelog’s top 50 ramen restaurants for 2016.

At Ramen Yashichi, there are three main ramen options on the menu that you can choose from – Shoyu (soy sauce), she (salt) or tsukemen. You will have to go to a vending machine, and then get a ticket- Although a foreign concept for many visitors to Japan, you’ll look like a local in no time if you know how it works beforehand. It is a small restaurant that serves quality and flavourful ramen that will definitely wow you! Definitely worth waiting in line for.

9. Ghar Curry 
Japan is known for having some of the best international restaurants in the world. Ghar curry is a restaurant that serves one of the best traditional Indian dishes with a contemporary, Japanese twist to its food. A fun way to discover the fusion cuisine scene in Osaka! Great food, great reviews with a great atmosphere..

10. Tayutayu Nambasennichimaeten 
So, you’ve got a great list of places to check off your list to enjoy authentic cuisine in Osaka already, but there is more! You may already be familiar with the word izakaya, if not then it is often translated as a sort of informal Japanese gastropub. Tayutayu Nambasennichimaeten is an izakaya that specialises in grilled pork known as yakiton and is often served with more unnusual cuts of pork. Rest assured it is a very flavourful stick that has an impeccable smoky taste to it. Come and squeeze in to the small space and rub shoulders with the locals to experience this unique Japanese cuisine as well as culture.

11. BonAppetour Dinner 

If you are really looking for an off-the-beaten path experience that gives you an insight into local life, this is one to try. Organised by BonAppetour, you will be given the opportunity to go to a local’s home and dine at their place, eating lovely home cooked food, sharing stories about Japan, introducing must-eat restaurants and much more. The possibilities are endless! Head over now, to subscribe as well as sign up and book the next meal that you are going to have with your hosts.

If you know of other must-eat dishes in Osaka, leave a comment in the section below! We would love to hear about them!

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A Complete Guide to Kyoto: Food, Attractions and Experiences

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A Complete Guide to Kyoto: Food, Attractions and Experiences

Kyoto is the 7th largest city in Japan, with a population of 1.4 million people. A city that has held an undeniable role in Japan’s politics and culture for over 1000 years, it used to be the capital of Japan in the 8th Century during the Edo Period.

Fun fact: Did you know that Kyoto is so heavy with historic value that it was one of the cities dropped from the list of cities to target for the atomic bomb and saved from air raids during the world war? As such, many temples, shrines and other historically priceless structures survived in the city.

A city so rich in culture, tradition, and way of life, going to kyoto would be like taking a stroll through history books. Bask in the sweet and fresh-smelling air, with majestic wooden buildings that surround you everywhere, and watch geishas that scurry along the streets and kaiseki’s – no wonder it's one of the destinations you should visit when you go to Japan. As Japan continues to grow, becoming more and more modern, and in turn abandoning its old ways, it is refreshing to see that Kyoto still hangs on to its traditional roots.

With the myraid of shrines, temples, and museums that you can visit, it can be tough to pick which ones to visit during your stay in Japan, so here are the top 5 BonAppetour attraction picks that you should visit:

1. Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine

We are sure that whilst you were searching for things to do and places to visit in Kyoto, you will have come across a picture similar to the one above. The Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine was dedicated to the gods of rice and sake, Inari, by the Hata family in the 8th century. There are thousands of shrines that are dedicated to Inari. This is because rice and sake was seen as the patron of business, but Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine is the most important shrine of them all. As you walk around the shrine you would realise many fox (kitsune) statues across the area, that is because foxes were believed to be the messengers of Inari.

The most iconic aspect of this attraction is the seemingly endless arcade of orange torii gates that spread across the mountain. Put on your hiking shoes and arm yourself with a bottle full of water, as this hiking trail up the Sebon Torii (thousands of tore gates) will take you at least 2 to 3 hours depending on how slow or fast you are. Half way through the hike, you will reach the Yotsutsuji intersection and here is where you can take a break on the benches and whip out your cameras to capture the beautiful scenery.

Fun fact: these torii gates are donated by individuals and companies; names of those who donated are inscribed on the torii gates and prices start from 40,000yen for a small gate to over a million dollars for a large gate. 

2.  Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
 
Walking along a path where bamboos soar above the ground beneath you – like entering another world – is a sight only to be seen in Japan. A sight captured by many, but there has never been a photographer who has succeeded in conveying the feeling you get whilst standing amongst these bamboos – being completely entranced by the swaying trees, rustling of leaves and movie-like soft and faded lighting, creating both a serene and magical atmosphere. Being on the list of ‘places to see before you die’,’100 Soundscapes of Japan’, and much more, the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is definitely one of the must-see places to put on your itinerary for your trip to Japan. 

While you are there, do take the time to explore the rest of Arashiyama. There are many other attractions within Arashiyama such as the Togetsukyo bridge which is the iconic landmark of Arashiyama. Kochi Sanso Villa, a home that used to be patronised by popular actor Okochi Denjiro. Monkey Park Iwatayama, located in the Arashiyama mountains, south of the Togetsukyo bridge is a place photographed by many! These attractions only scratch the surface! Go explore one of Japan’s most charming destination on foot and armed with a camera to capture the most beautiful sights. 

3. Kinkaku-ji 

During the Muromachi Period the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu acquired the Kinkaku-ji as his retirement villa. The passing of Ashikaga Yoshimitsu turned the Kinkaku-ji, a gold leaf covered temple, into a Zen temple. 

The Kinkaku-ji’s golden reflection shimmering across the rippled surface of the pond is one of the most symbolic view of Kyoto – no amount of tourists will draw away the Kinkaku-ji’s grandeur. In the past, the Kinkakuji (also known as the Golden Pavillion) was burnt down several times. Twice during the Onin war (a civil war) and once more again in 1950 by a ultraist monk. The current structure was rebuilt in 1955. 

Why is the building designed that way? The pavilion functions as a place to house relics of Buddhas. It consists of 3 levels and on each level, it is designed distinctly different from the other – the shinden, samurai and zen. 

The first floor, called The Chamer of Dharma Waters, was rendered in the shinden style. The second floor, called The Tower of Sound Waves is built to emulate the style of a samurais. The third floor, called The Cupola of the Ultimate was built to depict a religious ambiance. Last but not least, the pavillion is topped with a bronze phoenix ornament. The elements of nature, death, and religion are formed together in this 3 story pavilion to evince the connection between the pavilion and structures built outside of the structure. 

4. Nishiki Market

The Nishiki Market is one of Japan’s most iconic markets, and is more fondly known as the ‘Kyoto Kitchen’. It is easily the best traditional food market in the city. An indoor arcade full of bustling store vendors, tourists, cheap little restaurants, and stores selling both dry and preserved goods. This long, narrow, covered market occupies six short blocks at the heart of the city, just a few minutes stroll from the famous Gion District. 

Despite not being the largest nor the most ostentatious market in Kyoto, the things that you will find there are paragons of the best and freshest foods in Kyoto. Selling stuff such as freshly harvested, locally grown carrots to knives and cookware. If this is not enough for you, the Nishiki Market is also a great place to find some of Kyoto’s specialties, such as Japanese sweets, pickles, dried seafood, and (of course) sushi.

5.  Gion District 

At the heart of Kyoto, lies one of the most famous and popular entertainment district and also home to Kyoto’s traditional art. If you have read or watched the movie ‘Memoirs of a Geisha’ you would probably be as enchanted by this place as we are. An assortment of streets defined by its old wooden machiya buildings and 17th century teahouses for Geisha entertainment, Gion is a nice place to take a stroll in and take many pictures that capture the Japan of olden times. 

I recommend visiting Gion District in the night for that is when it comes alive with people and lights. You could patronise an onchaya (teahouse) and be entertained by a maiko or geiko. The Geishas will ensure a night of fun by engaging in conversation, serving drinks, playing drinking games and performing traditional music and dance for you. The services of a geisha are expensive and usually exclusive, so save up if you want to experience something so quintessential of Japan’s culutre. 

Note: If you happen to see a Geisha on the street, act respectfully. Do not behave like ruthless paparazzi and shove your camera in their faces. 

For those of you who do not know, Kyoto was Japan's capital for over 1200 years. It served as the imperial courts kitchen and that is why overtime, Kyoto has inherited its own cuisine such as “Kyo-kaiseki-ryori,” vegetarian-friendly “Shojin-ryori”, and “Obanzai”​.  Want to know where to get the best eats? Here are BonAppetour's top 5 best eats: 

1. Kane-yo 

Kane-yo is the place to go if you want to try the most sublime of Japanese dishes, Unagi. Due to its architecture and design, the restaurant overflows with sentiments of olden time Kyoto. Established during the Taisho period, the restaurant has been in business for over 100 years. This must be how they have perfected the art of cooking Unagi. The Unagi (boneless and melts in the mouth) is grilled over charcoal and paired with semi-sweet teriyaki sauce, served over rice.  

The Japanese have a belief that by eating unagi, they will be able to better endure the summer heat. Maybe that is why it is so expensive because of the powers the people claim it has! Despite being expensive in general, in Kane-yo, the Unagi are priced remarkably reasonably. Head on down to taste the wonderfully made Unagi and leave a comment below for us to know how much you loved it! 

2.  Omen

It is known that the moment a restaurant gains traction and starts branching out, the quality of the food drops but Omen must be an exception to this rule. Having over 3 restaurants in Kyoto, and even one in New York City, they have continuously maintained an impressive high standard over the years.

Omen’s signature dish is called ‘omen’. It is a bowl of handmade udon noodles that you can consume either hot or cold, a bowl of tusyu (broth) and a meticulously picked out array of seasonal Vegetables that are either boiled or pickled. To complete the dish, just sprinkle a little coarse ground sesame and you will have in front of you, an amazing dish. The restaurant also has a huge à la carte menu where you can order other delectable dishes to go with your noodles.

Note: During the Cherry Blossom Period, it tends to get very busy and the queues will extend to outside the restaurants, along the roads!

3. Izutsuya

Wagyu is one of the best meats out there. Fresh, succulent and full of juices. Izutsuya is a carnivores delight. From the moment you enter the restaurant, you will be treated with the utmost royalty. It is said that the chef rears his own cows – you get what you pay for, the diamond grade beef. The beef is served together with one of the most flavourful and fragrant garlic rice and vegetables. If there is ever a time you would want to taste some of the famous wagyu beef in Kyoto, this is the place you have to visit.

4.Yoshikawa

Located within one of Kyoto’s most famous ryokan inns, Yoshikawa Ryokan serves up one of the best tempura cuisine. If you happen to visit the restaurant during lunch time, you will be able to witness the chefs drudging over the huge black cauldrons of oil but when it is served to you, you will be shock to find that the tempura at Yoshikawa is so light and free of grease. During dinner time, food is served in private, traditional tatami mat rooms that look over an amazing little garden.

5. Gion Karyo

Rated as one of Kyoto’s Top 10 Culture Restaurants, the Gion Karyo serves one of the best Kaiseki’s in town – a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner. The Gion Karyo ensures that each dish, staying true to the kaiseki tradition, is paid meticulous attention and beautifully-presented. You will be pleased to find out that the menu changes every season in order to introduce variety. Located in Gion, one of the most atmospheric districts in Kyoto, the restaurant stands out from the rest. The old wooden machiya that used to stand in its place, was renovated into a beautiful Japanese house.

Other than visiting attractions and eating some of the best food in Kyoto, you also have to try these rather off-the-beaten-path experiences in Kyoto. Why? Just because they are that good!

1. Truck Train 

Japan is not just about temples, shrines and old ryokans turned into restaurants. Japan also has one of the most scenic landscapes – some include Lake Towada, Kegon Falls and Kiso River. The Truck Train otherwise known as the Sagano Romantic Train, is a train that runs along the Hozugawa River between Kemeoka and Arashiyama. 

it is one of the greatest way to enjoy the natural beauty of Kyoto. Looking at the incredible views of foliage on the ground beneath, and flowering trees in the autumn, and cherry blossoms in spring! In winter, and on every other wednesday, the train does not run. Charge your cameras and be ready to capture the near breathtaking views!

2. Hot Springs for your feet

Ashiyu otherwise known as the ‘footbath’ is becoming popular in Japan. Unlike usual hot springs where you would have to strip bare and enter the  pool, the Ashiyu allows you to be completely clothed as it bathes only your feet. One of the most famousfoot baths is said to be located at the Arashiyama station. The great news is that it is only 150 yen per person! If you want to relieve your aching legs from a whole day of walking around, 10 minutes of soaking time will do your feet the world of good. 

3. Uzumasa eigamura (Toei Kyoto Studio Park) 

If you google this place, you might probably think "Oh no tourist trap!" But, there is something about dressing up as a geisha or a samurai, watching live studio performances and walking through film sets as seen on TV, that charms and attracts tourists and travelers alike to this place still. 

Replicas of the old Nihonbashi bridge, the traditional court house, and Yoshiwara red light district, where live studio performances take place, usually draws most of the crowd's attention. From melodramatic lines, facial expressions and body language to over-the-top sword fights, there is fun to be had for everyone! A great place to bring your children to battle it out and play make believe for a day. For parents, you could also be spontaneous and join in the fun. 

4. Cycling in Kyoto 

Kyoto is mostly flat, with well-maintained roads, therefore it is very regularly voted as one of the best cities to rent a bike and cycle around. Though riding a bike may seem cumbersome, you will be surprised that it is quite the opposite. It saves time on travelling and with that time you can go and explore more of Japan! 

Note: If you cycle on sidewalks, cycle with a bell and slowly. If you plan to cycle in the night, rent a bicycle light as it is illegal to ride without one. & Take note of places to park your bike! You can go down to the Kyoto Cycling Tour Project. They will equip you with all the knowledge you could possibly need to cycle the streets of Kyoto. 

5. Bonappetour

If you are really looking for a off-the-beaten path experience that gives you an insight into local life, this is one to try. Organised by BonAppetour, you will be given the opportunity to go to a local's home and dine at their place, eating lovely home-cooked food, sharing stories about Japan, and learning about the best things to do in the city. The possibilities are endless! Sign up and book your next meal with a local from Kyoto.

Are there other places that you believe are the top 5 foods, attractions or experiences in Kyoto? Leave a comment below! We would love to take a look!

Image Credits: 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 / 10 / 11 / 12 / 13 / 14 / 15 / 16 / 17 / 18 

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Where To Get The Best Macarons in Paris

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Where To Get The Best Parisian Staple - Macarons

Paris, a dining capital with fine restaurants, casual bistros, bustling markets and fabulous gourmet shops. Of all the lovely foods to be savoured in the city – amazing cheeses, luscious wines, delectable charcuterie and to-die-for pastries – one little gem stands out from the rest: Macarons! This luxurious French delicacy is a must-eat in Paris, where you will find some of the best macaron makers in the world, and here are some of the places that you can find them.

Laduree

The name Laduree shouldn’t be foreign to you because of how it is usually the talk of the town. The traditional macaron is a staple for an everyday Parisian, and this is where they go and get it. Known for its consistency, crunchy outer pastry and soft flavourful filling – a must try. Each season they come up with new flavours just to spice it up, as well as a limited edition box where they collaborate with fashion designers (you should really consider buying a collection as they all look like jewelry boxes).

Pierre Herme

This next macaron house is as famous as Laduree. Infact, there has been many reviews challenging Laudree’s position as the best macaron house in Paris. Pierre Herme, a master of our era, started his career at iconic house of Fauchon before working at Laudree. The creator of one of the most mouthwatering macarons out there, the famous Isfahan desert which is made out of two macaron shells with a fresh raspberry centre, rose cream filling and a lychee in the centre.

Now you might ask, what differentiates Pierre Herme to Laduree? Pierre Herme provides a twist to the tradition macarons. Venturing off the path of flavours such as ‘chocolate’, ‘vanilla’ and ‘strawberry’, Pierre Herme brings to the table modern and experiemental flavours such as white chocolate and wine, passion fruit and the one that surprised us all, foie gras. This is definitely the macaron house to go to if you are looking for something less mainstream anda little different.

Angelina

This next place, Angelina, though known for their hot chocolate and Mont-Blanc, their macarons, crunchy with light fillings, should not be missed either. Their iconic “chocolat chaud à l’ancienne” is a must try (you’ll never look at a cup of hot chocolate the same again), paired together with some of their amazing macarons as well. A perfect mix of luxury and Parisian patisserie experience.

Homemade Macarons

And why not have a taste of home-made macarons! For this luxury dining experience you will be ushered into a chic Haussmann-styled apartment in Paris and handed a glass of champagne- the perfect introduction to Parisian life! You will learn how to make macarons with pastry expert Benedicte and also the secrets of macaron making and you will also get to eat with a local in Paris. As I am sure you know- food always tastes best when it is homemade! With your belly full of sweetness and your heart filled with pride after mastering this macaron cooking class you can head off for a stroll along the Champs Elysées or explore Montmartre- both of which are only 15 minutes from Benedicte’s Parisian kitchen!

Know of any other macaron stores there are as good as the ones mentioned above? Let us know in the comments below 🙂

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A Parisian Affair with Wine: The Best Wine Bars in Paris

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A Parisian Affair with Wine: The Best Wine Bars in Paris

When you think of Paris, you think of the City of love, fashion, literature and producer of the world’s finest wines. To find out how France become one of the world's largest producer of wines, we would have to go back to over 2600 years. The Romans came to know aobut viticulture and wanted to spread it throughout the country. It has since then become well known in regions such as Champagne, Burgundy, Loire Valley. With years of experience, France have become a master of the field. Producing wines such as Chardonnay, Château Barreyres and much more. Wine bars in France provide the perfect bridge between the rich history, culture and social significance to Parisians everyday life.There are countless wine bars in Paris that offer you the opportunity to get to try some of these amazing wines from red, white to champagne without having to pay for the whole bottle and at the same time be able to try a whole range of other wines prepared by wine enthusiasts and experts. 

They say one of life's simple pleasures is drinking good wine paired with good food in good company. 

 

Tours de Cuisine – La Cave à Vincent

Head over to the buzzing 11th district for a mesmirising wine tasting session in Paris. Not only do you get to sample the best wines in France, but you will come away a conoisseur- learning how to pair wine with different dishes. there's certainly more to it than just red or white! 

Willi’s Wine Bar 

This French-themed bar is run by a man named Mark Williamson, who opened it in the 1980s. He has cultivated a culture around food and wine. In the words of The Guardian ‘Mark Williams, […] has probably had a bigger influence on what Parisians drink today than almost anyone else.'  The food is cooked to perfection and the man behind the counter, sometimes Mark himself, will be there to offer you the best wine pairings with your food. The atmosphere, food, and wine is absolutely sublime. Wine tasting and vegetarian options are also available. 

l'Ecluse Grands Augustins

In the heart of historical Paris, near Notre Dame and the Place St Michel, you will see a wine bar with a royal blue canapy. L'Ecluse is known for serving absolutely divine Bordeaux wine, so if you would like to try some come on down! Order some food along with the server's recommendation of wine for that day and sit on the terrace that offers an amazing view of the Notre Dame. 

Le Baron Rouge 

Le Baron Rouge is a bar where all the locals after working hours flock to. Why you might ask? This wine bar is a place where you can quench your thirst with good quality vintage wine. The walls are covered in bottles and barrels from top to bottom to mark the bar as a space devoted to the glory of wine. However, this makes it difficult to move about in the bar, which is why all these blue-collar Parisians stand outside of the bar. 

Verjus Wine Bar 

Braden Perkins and Laura Adrian the owners of Verjus, initially started out as a highly-regarded dinner place called the Hidden Kitchen. Known for their bold, elegant, a la mode American cooking that has been the talk of the town for several years and hasn't died down yet. They later expanded in the year 2012, and have included a charming wine bar that is both cosy and stylish, located just beneath the restaurant. Verjus offers an updated monthly menu, so be prepared to be wowed every time you visit. From scandinavian-inspired trout to tender ink duck breast with rich crisp golden skin, everything tastes absolutely sublime… not to mention the wine that they serve which is absolutely divine.

Albion

Albion is a wine bar that has an underground wine cellar and geometric wooden wine racks that line the walls of the restaurant. Albion’s menu changes weekly and is paired with a weekly list of wines to choose from, starting at as little as €4 a glass. Starting off with Russian-inspired salads to mains such as the cod fillet accompanied with chard, apples, walnuts and spiced chutney.

If you have been to any other wine bars and believe they are one of the best in Paris, leave a comment below! We would love to hear about it! 

Image Credits: 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 

 

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