What is it about France that makes me experience like it’s OK to drink an whole bottle of wine at midday in your hotel in Paris? I suppose it’s the truth that here are so many places that make it easy-almost not possible not-to do just that.
My hands-down favorite spot in Paris for a boozy Sunday lunch is Le Verre Volé, the model Parisian wine bar and living proof that simplicity is the top secret to happiness-and delightfulness. There’s not anything better than a leisurely lunch of shared little dishes and an appealing bottle of wine, followed by a drunken stroll the length of the Canal St. Martin (I have yet to fall in!), most possible followed by a siesta. Afternoons like this make me question, “Does life get any better than this?” and I every time come to the same conclusion: no.
Thus book your appartment in Paris now!
Le Verre Volé is no top secret, but its sheltered place (just off the channel in the 10th) ensures that it’s far away enough from the sightseer trail to avoid being overrun. In addition, the chalkboard menu is in French-though the servers are pleasant and pleased to explain for English-speaking customers. The Verre Volé is part of a recent culinary style in Paris: the wine shop - restaurant hybrid. The walls of the little space (it seats only around 18 people at a moment) are adorned with varied bottles from the far-flung corners of France. You be able to buy one to take back home, or you can buy one to go with lunch or dinner (in which case, you pay a 7€ corkage charge). You can also get wines by the glass.
The wines are thoroughly selected from France’s most important regions and from small producers in villages you’ve probably never heard of. The diversity and creativity that has gone into the selection is revitalizing, but even more refreshing are the prices. Bottles begin at around 6€ and raise from there. Servers are glad to guide you towards great worth. A friend and I once splurged on a 25€ bottle of St. Joseph and spent the rest of the time in a state of syrah-induced rapture.
And in the end, Le Verre Volé is terminally trendy with no being over-hip. It’s nonchalant and friendly, but when you’re here, you understand you’re in the best spot at the right moment. This is one place that manages to strike a ideal balance between innovative cooking, exceptional wines, hip but cozy ambiance, and more-than-reasonable prices. I can’t wait to go back… is it noon yet?