Jenn Rihacek, Culture through Literature in Paris Summer 2024
For me, one of the most memorable parts of my study abroad journey was getting to experience all of the different cuisines my host city, Paris, had to offer. From grabbing breakfast at my neighborhood patisserie to a late-night bite at a downtown cafe, I was lucky enough to greatly expand my palate abroad.
When it came to getting a quick meal, the hostel I stayed in had its very own dining hall which served a wide array of options for any diner. In the mornings, they served fresh croissants and fruit accompanied with brewed coffee, tea, or mango juice. For lunch and dinner, I was always able to try a staple Parisian dish like duck or broiled salmon. However, if I didn’t want something that rich, I could always grab a refreshing salad from the salad bar or try another one of their hot plate options. Having great tasting food in the same building that I lived in was a massive benefit, and it did come in handy when I didn’t want to spend the extra money to eat out. But since the dining hall ran on a very tight schedule, it wasn’t always the best option if I was coming back from a late night out or was hungry at the wrong time.
Another easy option was grabbing something to-go at the local grocery store, Franprix, just around the block from my hostel. This was the main store where I was able to purchase some French snacks and drinks, fresh pastries, sushi, or hot sandwiches. Franprix was a very convenient option for my on-the-go lifestyle abroad, and it was very interesting to try all of the different snack options that aren’t available in the United States.
When I had more time or simply went out to a new part of the city, I was always eager to try a new restaurant. Some of the best meals I had in Paris were from smaller restaurants or cafes which typically offered a more hand-picked selection. Once my most memorable dining experiences was when my entire study abroad group and teachers got a late lunch at a stunning creperie near Versailles. Before coming to Paris, I had never imagined a savory crepe being as good as people made them sound, but it was this restaurant that changed my view forever. The dining experience in Paris was a big part of the culture there, so wherever I found myself, I knew I was in for a real treat. Overall, I think Paris was one of the best places to try new dishes. Even though I am not a picky eater, I never found a dish that made me nervous to step out of my comfort zone. The flavors of the French cuisine in Paris were a very unique part of my study abroad experience, and I am so glad that I was fortunate enough to live in such a lavish country.
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