Appeared in the 13th century, soup has long been a staple of the French diet. Although its name originally referred to the action of dipping a slice of bread in a broth, today it represents a dish in its own right, with a wide variety of regional versions. For a few years now, establishments dedicated to its tasting have been appearing and seducing those who love to eat well.
Each year, a French person consumes an average of 13 liters of soup. In the form of soup or velouté, this dish, which is popular with all social classes, comes in a thousand versions, generally based on a broth, whereas for centuries the bread was indifferently soaked, dipped or crumbled in milk, wine, cider or beer (this is still the case in Alsace).
A simple and modest dish, soup has always been served at the meals of lords and peasants alike, and today it is particularly appealing to the new generations who aspire to eat healthily. Nutritious, fresh (with the use of seasonal and often local vegetables) and filling, this dish also seduces for its comforting, simple and creative side. Indeed, there are countless variations (or tasty reinterpretations) made by famous chefs and it is no longer rare to find soups on the menu of great restaurants.
Soup'bars appeared in New York in the 90's and arrived in Paris in 2001. They seduce urban people in search of light and convenient dishes to eat (they can be eaten on the spot or to take away, cold, warm or hot). Based on vegetables, meat, fish or bread, the recipes proposed in these thematic bars are updated daily and often innovative (pea soup with mint, carrot soup with pineapple and ginger...).
Here are some good Parisian addresses:
Potage / 16 Boulevard Beaumarchais, 75011
Entirely homemade, the soups offered by this address in the Bastille district mix tradition and innovation. Butternut soup with maple flakes, Barry's cream with cocoa nibs or a new twist on Thai broth: the most original recipes seduce the adventurous of taste and are appreciated by all for their gourmet and healthy dimension.
Le Bar à Soupes / 33 rue de Charonne, 75011
In the same district of Paris, this address focuses on organic ingredients and offers complete formulas at an affordable price, such as the one for lunch at 15€ including 1 soup, 1 bread roll, 1 salad (cheese plate or dessert as an alternative) and a drink of your choice. Every day, 6 different soups are available to eat in or take away.
Le Pied de Cochon / 6 Rue Coquillière, 75001
Surprised to find here the historical address of the Halles district?
It's because the emblematic restaurant of the "belly of Paris" serves one of the most unavoidable dishes of French gastronomy: onion soup.
This real remedy for all ills is particularly tasty and generous here with its thick layer of bread and grilled cheese topping: perfect for all night owls, as the Pied de cochon is open 24 hours a day.
Valérie from Comme des Français
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