Yikes! I have 2 months left to tell you about some fabulous eateries in Paris before I move! That's right, you 30 fabulous followers, I am moving from Paris to the sexy, seething south...of France, to Marseille! I couldn't be more excited, Paris has been such an excellent place to learn and grow (and to discover culinary greatness), but it's time for me to move on and try new things (and get my Master's). I will be taking this blog on the road as I discover flavorful provençal cooking along with the many other flavors that make up Marseille's diverse culinary landscape.
Now, on to the real point of this particular blog, the Baron Rouge...
Hidden in the gently curved streets of Paris, tucked between the 4e and 12e arrondissements stands inviting, 'Le Baron Rouge,' a wine bar by trade that serves up no frills french culture by the glass.
Upon stepping inside, you are instantly transported from the bustling metropole to the french wine-country. From wine casks full of 2 euro per litre wine to the hundreds of bottles decorating the walls, ceilings and floor, you better be ready for some serious "degustation".
Courtney and I were unsure what to drink, so many options at such a good price! We asked the bearded barman for his advice, knowing that we wanted something fruity and a bit light on the palette (we weren't quite in the mood for a heavy Bordeaux). He led in us in the right direction with a 2010 Sancerre Red (3.50 euro the glass, 16 euro for a large carafe); it was light, with a fresh berry taste. The friendly barman (along with his 2 other barfellows) are truly artisans. You can attribute half of the excellent ambiance to their jolly demeanor and wine knowledge.
Court and I were so pleased with our wine and our tasting experience that we decided to order again, for me a true Kir (crème de Cassis from Bourgogne and a white wine, Aligot, also from Bourgogne) and Court a glass of Sancerre white. To accompany these new wines, we ordered a half round of creamy, salty chèvre cheese that paired perfectly with the cool, crisp drinks.
Tips for coming to the Baron:
- There are limited tables, so be prepared to bump elbows with your wine-loving neighbor if you arrive around lunch time or before dinner (around 7/7:30pm in France)
- By 7:30, locals and foreigners alike arrive by the group, try to get there around 6/6:30 at the latest
- They are also open during the famous (and worth a visit as well) Marché d'Aligre, which passes right in front of the Baron. Market visitors often stop in for a glass before continuing their shopping
- 2-4 euros for a glass of wine (maximum 4 euros!)
- 8-16 euros for a pitcher of wine to share between friends
- 6 euros for a large portion of tasty cheese or 12 euros for a massive assorted meat plate
