Our first day in Paris.

We covered 10 miles by foot.

As is the tradition, we had to see the Eiffel Tower up close. We dragged our weary bodies out of Chanel, across the Seine to Ecole Militaire. We were tired and hungry like refugees from a foreign country.

Where to eat in a touristy neighborhood? I had an ephipany and remembered having a discussion with the wife of the founder of Joe’s Jeans about wonderful french restaurants. I pulled Les Cocottes out of my present french tush.

Courtny googled Les Cocottes. Yelpers and Trip Advisors raved…very unusual because that group of reviewers usually pick apart every restaurant.

It was only a 15 minute walk…this could be done. We were golden.

We arrived at a very upscale arrondissement and the place was packed…10 minute wait. They do not take reservations. The stream of patrons never let up.

Les Cocottes is reasonably price, especially for the pinkies up neighborhood.

We were seated and between my french and the waiter’s english we ordered a brilliant lunch.

David ordered seafood bisque and I ordered chestnut soup (8 euros). The soups were unbelievable. I remember being in Paris with my parents and we went to a Michelin starred restaurant, Tour D’Argent.

My father ordered seafood bisque and 30 years ago it was $60 just for the soup. He did not get out of bed the next day…I think he was depressed from the price tag.

David ordered Caesar salad which was delicious and different from the classic Caesar in America.

Courtny and I shared chicken cocotte, the special of the day. The meal is served in cocottes, cast-iron cookware, which are actually for sale. I considered a purchase, but I only travel with carry on and the cocottes would have dominated my rolly.

The chicken was probably the best I have ever consumed. It was tender and adorned with trumpet mushrooms, perfectly prepared potatoes…fabulous (16 euros).

Truly out of character, we ordered a Puilly Fume which was perfect with our lunch selections. The way they keep the wine chilled is adorable.

We left satiated and unfettered by the ham hanging over our heads.

I would revisit Les Cocottes in a french second…it was that good.

Les Cocottes Paris, France 135 Rue Saint-Dominique, 75007 Paris, France