Chez André

Enough good things cannot be said about Chez André, an unassuming restaurant in Paris.  It's expensive, but it's off of George V so that is to be expected.

I first went in January 2012, with my not-yet-SOs family.  For me, this was awkward.  I hadn't exactly been invited to dinner, but brought along, after staying late at the apartment.  We arrived, to be met by uncle and uncle's friend, cousin and boyfriend, then there was mother (and maybe father?) and Pepe, and me.  I was on the end, deploring the hole I now realized was in my shirt.  My Goodwill shirt.  Next to me, were Chanel purses and Rolex watches.

Conversation turned from pleasantries to (uncomfortable) stories about cousin's time in Mexico.  Pepe and I weren't allowed to order.  Cousin insisted on the burger and fries.  This, my one expensive meal in Paris.  I wasn't thrilled, but the food spoke for itself.

Later that night, the friend drove us home, my first time in a car in weeks.  First time ever in Paris.  What can I say, taxis are expensive, walking more useful.

Chez André is now a necessity.  In October, Pepe and I went back.  This time, I scorned burgers, for a Chateaubriand steak.  I… I just can't give that steak justice.  The steak, with the perfect fries and bernaise and Bordeaux.

I need a steak.  Just a little one.  Just the one from Paris.

Round 2 at Chez André, we sat next to Portuguese speakers, which tickled Pepe to no end.  We ended the night walking blocks, singing until we were complemented.

In December, we sat next to a couple, speaking in a spatter of English and French.  Neither was their first language.  Beyond them, were an American couple.  Insufferable really.  They started talking to the old couple next to them, for no reason at all.  The American man, spoke to them in French, saying he had worked in Paris for five years, that they were trying to get their son EU citizenship, that he loved the city… and on.

Apparently, I've misplaced all photos of the actual food...

The accent was so horrific, even the dog, sitting under the old woman's chair three tables away sighed in confusion.  It was so crowded, the man talking so loud, that trying to ignore it was impossible.

But then, my steak arrived with my wine.  Everything became pleasant again.