📍Au Coeur des Vins

Location: Avignon, France

Type: Wine Bar & Specialty Wine Shop

Why We Loved It: This cozy wine bar became one of our favorite stops in Avignon. The staff was incredibly friendly and took the time to learn what we enjoyed before recommending a bottle. 

Must Try: Gris de Grenache | 2024 – Les Grains Terroir d’Altitude

** Kat’s favorite wine of the entire Europe trip

Would We Go Again? Absolutely

📍Bambino Rocco Et Sa Mère… La Cucina Che Dit “Je T’aime”

Location: Montpellier, France

Type: Italian Restaurant

Our Thoughts: Hands down my favorite pizza and pasta from our entire Europe trip. Everything tasted homemade, and the staff made us feel incredibly welcome from the moment we walked in. 

** Kat’s favorite meal of the trip

Would We Go Again? 100%

📍Néo Bordeaux

Location: Bordeaux, France

Type: Steakhouse

Our Thoughts: If you’re looking for a fun dinner experience in Bordeaux, this is a great choice. The presentation alone makes it memorable

📍Vins de Bordeaux

Location: Bordeaux, France

Type: Wine Bar

Why We Recommend It: One of the best places we found to sample Bordeaux wines without spending a fortune.

• Beautiful interior
• Extensive local wine selection
• Great prices

📍La Table de Saint-Sulpice

Location: Saint-Émilion, France

Type: French Restaurant

We Didn’t Get to Eat Here…This restaurant was highly recommended by Lucie from Château de Lescours, but unfortunately it was fully booked when we visited. 

Helpful Tips 

• Make reservations ahead of time
• Staff primarily speak French
• Double check opening hours; they’re somewhat limited

📍Le Petite Vendôme

Location: Paris, France

Type: Traditional French Bistro

Why We Recommend It: If you’re looking for a classic Parisian dining experience with an old-world atmosphere, this is a great spot. It has a cozy, authentic feel and is clearly a favorite among both locals and visitors. 

Helpful Tips 

• Arrive early or make a reservation, it fills up quickly
• Staff primarily speak French, but don’t let that discourage you. Everyone was welcoming, and ordering was still easy.

Would We Return? Absolutely 

📍Gabin Dans Le Pétrin

Location: Paris, France

Type: Bakery

Why We Loved It: One of the local favorites we discovered while exploring Paris. The pastries were fresh, buttery, and exactly what you ‘d hope for from a neighborhood French bakery.

Best For Breakfast or grabbing a pastry before a day of sightseeing

📍Le Petit Bouillon Pharamond

Location: Paris, France

Type: Traditional Parisian Bouillon

Why We Loved It: This is where we fell in love with escargot. 

If you’re visiting France, we highly recommend eating at least one bouillon during your trip. Bouillons originated in Paris in the late 1800s as affordable restaurants serving classic French comfort food, and many still carry on that tradition today. They’re one of the best ways to experience authentic French cuisine without spending a fortune.

What we Recommend Ordering 

• Escargot (a must try, even if you’re hesitant!)
• Beef Bourguignon
• Duck Confit
• Creme Brûlée

Helpful Tip: There are several excellent bouillons throughout Paris, so if this one is full, don’t be afraid to try another. They’re all known for serving delicious, traditional French dishes at very reasonable prices.