I wrote about L’Assiette for Hong Kong Tatler Dining, on best spots to dine in Paris. I still think about those escargots I had in December. There’s tomato coulis at the depths of the little vessel. Buttery, garlicky topped with a well buttered crouton.
The popular items are the hare and paté en croute, but if you’re not into game or a carnivore, fear not, there are seafood choices on the menu too.
There’s a new creme caramel dessert that you MUST order. It comes in a humble pot, like Winnie the Pooh’s honey pot filled with a silky creamy creme caramel.
This brasserie serves simple and perfectly executed classic dishes by chef David Rathgeber, an alumnus of the Alain Ducasse group, and it’s not unusual to see top chefs from around the world gathering here for meals when they are in Paris. Everything on the menu is seasonal and the ingredients are allowed to shine through simple preparations.
The modest menu has all the brasserie classics, from cassoulet to escargots. Our recommendations are the scallops with champagne sauce, pâté en croute and the soufflé for dessert.
L’Assiette, 181 Rue du Château, 75014 Paris, France; +33 143 226486
I’ve jokingly referred to it as the canteen for top chefs in the world. You’ll be bumping into Michelin starred French chefs in Paris, French food critics and Michelin starred French chefs from across the world. It’s a small intimate restaurant, so make your bookings in advance.
The other thing I forgot to mention in my article is the tea selection is wonderful – handpicked and curated by chef David’s wife Nadia who is a tea connoisseur and runs her own tea business. She also speaks fluent Mandarin!