The “Other” Crêpes Near The Seine: L’Ebouillanté
The Low Down: Instead of packing the family into the Breizh Cafe for a traditional crêpe, why not try an alternative Tunisian crêpe, called a brick, and soak up the sun on the terrace at L’Ebouillanté. (Breizh, in the Marais also, is a popular item on most city guides and worth a stop if you prefer to stick to tradition and sit indoors.) The 40-year old former art gallery is tucked away on a quiet medieval pedestrian square next to the Seine and the breathtaking Gothic Saint-Gervais cathedral.
Why Kid-Friendly?: Some kids like to keep it simple and what is more simple than a crêpe with egg, ham, and cheese? Or dump the crêpe and have eggs. The kiddies don’t have to feel cooped up inside a restaurant. There is space to run around in the courtyard after eating, or while you are waiting for a table.
What to order: While there are plenty of those simple options for the kids, the grown folks should go for one of the many “bricks”, which are slightly crispy Tunisian semolina crêpes filled with anything from eggs and meat to veggies and herbs 9.50€-15.50€). Most popular is the Number 3: eggs, Swiss cheese, tomato, ham, mushroom, fresh cream, and curry. Delish! From Monday till Saturday they offer a 15€ lunch or dinner prix fixe featuring the plats du jour of soup, salads, quiches, fish, or meat. If you pop by during apéro time order a platter of charcuterie and cheese and try one of their alcohol-free cocktails or maybe just go straight for the booze.
Good to know & What’s Close by: While L’Ebouillanté doesn’t really turn up in city guides, it’s a widely-known “secret” amongst Parisians who flock to this joint, especially if the sun even peeks out from the clouds. Get there at noon on the dot or be prepared for a 20-30 minute wait, which is not bad considering you can visit the church or walk around the courtyard with your fam. There is inside seating as well if you have an aversion to the sun and want to sit more quickly. Don’t worry if your French is not up to par, the servers here are very friendly and speak English.
After your meal, visit the cathedral or waltz down to the Seine and enjoy the playgrounds and the pedestrianized expressway. Cash or credit card (15€ minimum) accepted. No American Express accepted.
Photos by Ajiri Aki
L’Ebouillanté
6 rue des Barres
75004 Paris
01 42 74 70 52
Metro: Pont Marie, Hôtel de Ville
Open: Noon to 10pm in the summer, Noon to 7pm in the winter.