I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard American tourists complain about how slowwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww the service is in a Parisian restaurant. Actually, now that I think about it, I’ve heard the same complaint in Mexico, Hawaii, Italy…well, you get the idea.
What is our problem? Why do we insist on rushing through meals–at home or abroad? Don’t we like eating? I mean, if we didn’t, wouldn’t we all be a little skinnier? So why the hurry?
The French have it right, my friend. That waiter you’re annoyed with–he would never be so rude as to rush you, his guest, through your soup. He knows that a great meal among even a single companion is something worth savoring. And if you’re lucky enough to be eating in Paris, I can assure you that the course you are waiting on will be worth it. So swirl your wine, laugh with your friends, and CHEW SLOWLY!
Oh, and one more thing. For the love of lemon tartlets, don’t expect to get your coffee with dessert!
Ciao Chow!
Autumn