Café Cassette

Café Cassette a quiessential bistro in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés district of Paris.

Located in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés district in the 6th Arrondissement, Cafe Cassette was a must stop, upon the suggestion of one of my dearest cousins, Vale.  After a short metro ride to the Saint-Sulpice stop from my morning hat making workshop near Étienne Marcel, I was in a different world of Paris.

Briskly walking the short distance to the front of Cafe Cassette, I actually enjoyed the 29 degree weather. Upon first glance at the brasserie, all I could say to myself was “Wow – Thank you, Vale”.

It was simply perfect – the quintessential Parisian bistro.

Once I sit and settled in, I ordered the CASSETTE SPRITZ (Liqueur de cerise Ciliega, liqueur de kumquat, huile essentielle de yuzu, eau gazeuse). The wonder is not lost upon me that I’ve had an aperol spritz while overlooking the Montenegro coast and a cassette spritz in Paris this year. All I can say is, yes, please, more, thank you.

An order of the  FISH & CHIPS MAISON (sauce tartare, frites maison) completed my lunch. Now, I have to be honest – the fish and chips at Cafe Cassette were above and beyond any fish and chips I’ve had in London. The only comparison would be the freshness and quality I’ve enjoyed at Ivar’s Fish and Chips in Seattle, Washington.

The food quality in Paris is incredible. Plus, helping the bartender practice his English was great. I never expected to be asked what I thought about the Lakers over lunch in Paris.  But, it’s what happened – and I’m better for it. I delight in unique experiences.

He gave me some lovely recommendations for chocolatier stores, Leonidas Chocolate and Jeff de Bruges. And, he suggested shopping near the iconic Hotel Lutecia. Unfortunately, I just didn’t end up having time during my scheduled day.

Wanting to power through the last of my jet lag, I ordered a latte. I couldn’t think of any other way to end my lunch before continuing on with my day.

Savoring the moments while sipping, I delighted in watching Parisians come in, walk to the bar, order an espresso and thank the bartender before walking out. The city felt alive – in a way that New York has never been to me.

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