I’m back at it, posting some of the wonderful places we’ve eaten at while in Paris.  Here’s another hidden-away gem we found in our neighborhood last summer. Caffé dei Cioppi is hidden down Rue du Faubourg Saint-Antoine, past discount clothing stores and unmemorable cafes. When you’re looking for number 159, it’s hard to believe that anyone would want to eat in this neighborhood but once you turn and enter the doorway of number 159, you’ll find a secluded alleyway lined with cobblestones. As someone put it, “the unexpected loveliness of it all in contrast to the street you left behind makes it all the more appealing.”

The place is very warm and welcoming and it’s not big, seating maybe 15. We made reservations just to make sure we could get a spot and got lucky enough to sit outside on this perfect evening.  They have 4 or 5 tables outside the doors that line the alley.  This place is the perfect neighborhood restaurant with good food and excellent service.

Mozzarella di bufalo, poivrons rouge, basilic (Buffalo mozzarella, red peppers, basil)

Soupe de tomates aux agrumes (Tomato soup with citrus)

Gnocchi de pommes de terre, ragout d’agneau de lait (Gnocchi potato ragu of lamb)

Risotto a la saucisse, citron et romarin (Risotto with sausage, lemon and rosemary)

Sbrisolona, creme au mascarpone (Traditional Italian crunchy tart, mascarpone cream)