Some disappointing experiences in Paris

Some of you may have been wondering why we haven't written about any restaurants since we arrived in Paris. The truth is, we (especially me) have been disappointed by our meals so far. (Paul did say that he enjoyed the home cooked presentations to date so that at least is a positive thing!) Nothing really bad, but nothing exceptional either. Chris tells me it's my fault because I've been lazy and we've just gone to some "old favorites". She's probably right, last year I spent several days researching and making a list of places to go ( I do restaurants; Christina does everything else). That said, some comments on our recent outings:

Au Moulin au Vent
20 rue des Fossés-St-Bernard F - 75005 PARIS
This has been a favorite for it's homey atmosphere, wonderful Grenouilles (Frog's Legs) and meat specialities. We took our friends from Canada (the Honsas) for a typically French meal that would appeal to their tastes. We were very disappointed; they lost our reservation and we had to sit outside (in the rain, albeit under an umbrella) with a view of the parking lot and the noise of street traffic. The good news is we were able to enjoy quiet conversation with good friends dispite the less then efficient service and the feeling that we had been forgetten about; Les Grenouilles were limp and lacking in garlic (although the Escargots were excellent) and the steak (the house speciality) was tasty but gristly. Chris and Vaclev had the lamb which was excellent.

Atelier Maitre Albert
1 rue Maître Albert F - 75005 PARIS
Another favorite. . they specialize in grilled items. I had Veal shank and Chris had the swordfish. Both were good, but not outstanding. The vegetables (grilled rice and cheese) was the best thing. We had a house Beaujolais (carafe) that was good. The service was excellent. This is an interesting spot filled mostly with out of town business people and a few locals. It's minimalist atmosphere may not make you feel like you're in Paris, but the service is friendly, the seating close but not too close and it's worth a trip.

Bofinger
5 rue de la Bastille F - 75004 PARIS
This is a famous Art Deco, Parisian, brasserie specializing in "Coquillage" (shellfish) and "Charcuterie" (Alsatian sausage). We took the Honsas here for a typical Parisian outing. The food was Ok, but nothing special. Chris loved her bulots and Vaclav got his oysters! We sat under the 'dome' and is downstairs--definitely a better place then en haut!

Rotisserie du Beaujolais
15 quai de la Tournelle F - 75005 PARIS
This new restaurant opened by the people from La Tour d'argent as a less costly alternative. It has become very popular in France now as a reaction to the cost of restaurants that satisfy the Michelin requirements for a top restaurant (Tour d'Argent averages about 200 E per person before wine). It specializes in rotisserie items. Both Chris and I had wild Duck, which was tasty but underdone; it did however come on a delicious bed of 'roissti' along with those lovely french green beans. We had another house Beaujolias that was very drinkable. The service here was substandard. We don't mind the slower pace in France but this was just inattentive. It is the only time I wish that I could have used the 'tip' to demonstrate our displeasure.

For the rest of today (and until I finish) I will be researching restaurants for the next five weeks. I don't get any peace until that's done!