Obsession: Chez Robert Rodriguez

A few weeks back, my mom and I took a trip to the French country side. Without much planning, we ended up in Carcassonne - an old fortress town. While the town itself was quaint, but underwhelming, the meal we had made up for it. Chez Robert Rodriguez (this place) was one of the most spectacular meals I've had in a while. The chef's focus is on local products, changing menus, and creativity. Also, the wine selection is amazing.  This tiny five (or six) table restaurant is kitschy, warm, and totally worth the trip.

 Scallops with Local Veggies 

Saumon Fumé

Escargot

Veggies and Quinoa Pancakes

Goat Cheese with Honey, Fig Reduction and Almonds 

The Franceman 15

Contrary to popular belief, I will not be returning from France weighing over 300 pounds. While I have enjoyed the (not-so-)occasional pain au raisin et café...

... to wake me up before 3 hours of teaching "head, shoulders, knees and toes" to over-energized seven year olds, I have also never seen this much fresh produce. There are markets everywhere. One of my favorites is the St. Aubin Market every Sunday which, since there is absolutely nothing open on Sundays, is packed with people from around the city. I promise to work up the nerve to take pictures of the cheese trucks and the paella stands soon. Another favorite is the Bagatelle Market which is a transplanted Moroccan souk - olives, dates, and vendors that love to haggle. 

In the meantime though, I had the pleasure of traveling to Paris (en route to Berlin and Belgium) where I wandered through a pretty spectacular market. It is on the corner of Saxe and Breteuil (every Saturday until 1:30 ish... allowing you to sleep in). I highly recommend finding the man with Tabouli. 

And lastly, if all else fails - I have found 'diet' chocolates from Belgium... Still unsure how this works.