Barbra Austin - Bistrot Paul Bert. This one is on many people’s list of favorites, including mine. The first time I visited Bistrot Paul Bert, nearly two years ago, we had a white asparagus salad, foie gras with toast, capon with morels, and steak with fries, all delicious. But what I remember most from that meal was a benign language gaffe: In French, the use of “madame,” “mademoiselle” and “monsieur” is imperative when addressing strangers. Our efficient server, happy to try out her English skills, translated “monsieur” as “mister” instead of “sir”, an easy mistake to make in the minefield of learning a foreign language.
All night it was Mister. “Rognons are kidneys, Mister.” “Are you ready to order, Mister?” “Would you like some wine, Mister?” In related news, I am rarely addressed as “mademoiselle” anymore. Anyway, my recent meal at Bistrot Paul Bert began with a cholesterol-raising starter of oeufs au plat with creamy morels. We did our best, nous deux demoiselles dames, with this giant piece of meat. Next time, Mister. Au P tit Panisse : Restaurant Paris. Le Coup de Feu : Restaurant Paris. Bistro au vieux chêne - 7 rue du dahomey - paris 75011 - Stephane Chevassus. Pure Café : Bar Paris. L'Ebauchoir, resto bistro gourmand.