When in Rome …. ( Parisian Cuisine)

Although I have always proclaimed my interest in Fashion, during my visit to Paris was not enthralled because I noticed that it’s all in the same. I did not find any big gaps in regards to Paris fashion trends and those in New York. Therefore, I switched gear to their food.  There’s no denial that French food was and still is a big deal. Although there was a period, where this was demystified by forces such as Julia Childs, I was extremely interesting in trying to grasp first hand, why French food was considered High taste to begin with.   I also was extremely interested in noting the influence immigration had in changes in their cuisine.

 

My first day in Paris, I noticed how much a big deal food in general was. This included chocolatiers, pastry shops and cafes.  Cafes in Paris are like Bodegas in NYC, there are at least 3 on every block.  It was not until dinner that I actually observed how the concept of the restaurant was engraved in their culture. I mean it does make sense after all the French are the inventors the table, the cooking vocabulary, restaurants and the concept of cuisine. I recall a conversation with my grandmother as she was asking about the food and I said to her “The French do not cook”. I had no idea if this was attributed to the fact that our hotel was located in a tourist area but it seemed that as the clock stroked 7pm, those cafes were filled to capacity. It was just unbelievable, I remembered my friend Jocelyn turning to me saying isn’t it the same in NYC and I said I don’t think so. However I’m definitely not complaining because those meals were delightful. Especially the meal I shared at Café Constant, which I admit was the highlight of my trip. It was a perfect example of great French food.  I also noticed that dining out served the sociological purpose of bringing me and my mates together.  We had conversations about our values and life experiences that we probably would not have had in a class room.  In a sense eating out daily made me feel French , I wanted to absorb their culture. As the saying goes “When in Rome…..” (You know the rest).  Crepes and croissants  easily became a part of my daily eating routine.  A bite of a crepe allowed me to share their cultural experience.  I had at least two daily.  I said to someone, this is legit like the Hot dog of NYC. You cannot go to New York City especially in the summer time without having one.

The act of dining out also allowed me to see the impacts of gastro nationalism and globalization. As a result of these processes, we were able to have Italian, Moroccan and Lebanese food while in France.  There were also the options of Starbucks and McDonalds.  The presences of these cultures prove that food in France goes beyond escargot or steak and fries. It shows the acceptance of diversity in cuisine exists.

Arab and Islamic

The lines between the two identities of Muslim and Arab are usually blurred for many. Individuals tend to use the labels synonymously without truly understanding the grave difference. While being Arab indicates being from the same region and sharing culture, Muslim however is a religious affiliation.  During my visit to Paris, I had the opportunity of  share both religious and culture spaces.

                  Our first stop was the Mosque, which is the Islamic place of worship. As we approached the building, I just felt a sense of familiarity as if I had seen it before. It was then I remembered a scene in Je t’aime Paris.  Islam is the second largest religion in France. It was reported that since 1950, France opened its borders and had a large influx of Muslim immigrants. The religion has gained media attention in the nation especially in regards to women and the burqua and the introduction of hallal burgers.  Although, this was not my first time in a Mosque, it was definitely a defying moment.  The Garden was absolutely breathtaking. The tiles and color coordination worked. It was quite pleasing aesthetically.  

 

 

                Our second stop on the tour was the Modern Arab museum. The building was so futuristic, it was one of the most interesting concepts I have ever seen from an architectural perspective. The glass like material used in the construction beamed as we approached. Although, the museum itself was one of the shortest when compared to Parisian museums such as Louvre, it contained interesting paintings, jewelry, pottery and instruments etc that share Arab influences.

 

 The highlight of our tour was the meal at the Lebanese restaurant. I loved the décor and aura of the restaurant, which was located in the museum. I was not accustomed to the meal; it was different and took me a while to get acquainted with. I had an array of hummus, falafel, lamb etc.  My favorite part of the course was the water, which contained mint leaves. This was not only refreshing but gave me sense of nostalgia. It reminded me of days with my grandmother and cousins, where we would drink mint tea before bed.

 

Le Marais

Le Marais, which was developed during the 12^th century, is regarded as one of Paris’s most oldest and aristocratic quarters. Its French name translates into Marsh meaning swamp. The quarters was said to be a noble favorite from the reigns of Henri IV to that of Louis XIII. It was not until the French revolution that the area fell under ruins.  The disheartening history of the area lies with the plight of the Jews under the Vichy Government.

  In the 19^th century, France became a refuge for Jews specifically those + Europe, who became victims of anti-Semitic beliefs and policies.  Le Marais thus became a Jewish community. It was and still remains home of many synagogues and successful Jewish owned businesses such as Jo Goldenberg and Hammam. The tour guide noted that until the 20^th century, there were many signs stating “Place au Juif”. This served as a religious and cultural proclamation of Jewish presence.  This changed under the rule of the Vichy government, which stripped the Jews of their citizenship.  Many Jews were forced into camps such as Drancy and Auschwitz and were forced to wear the Star of David. This served as an “identifying” agent.  According to the statistics approximately 11,000 children died in the camps. Reports also showed that only 2500 of 13000 returned from the camps. During the tour, I saw tributes on buildings honoring those who lost their lives and those who helped protect the Jews especially priests and nuns. France is reported to have the second largest Jewish community in comparison to USA and Israel.  There is not a specific number in regards to demographics since ethnic studies are not allowed in France. This prevents discrimination and prejudice and allows the Jews to truly feel french.

 

Today, Le Marais is gentrified. It is popularly known as a gay and Jewish community.  While walking on the Rue des Rosier, the area reminded me of SoHo.  The cobblestoned narrow streets were filled with stores, bakeries, restaurants, bars and bookshops.  I saw strength in the attempts of the Jews to rebuild in an area that contains memories of a difficult period in their history.

Beauty in Mere Buildings -Catholic Heritage

The presence of Catholic Heritage in Paris is unquestionable. This comes as no surprise since it was the religion of the monarchy, which made it the religion of the state. Though the actual practice of the religion is not as strong, through observation I have noted that religious sites such as the Sacre Coeur, Notre Dame and Saint Chapelle are more touristic as opposed to upholding their initial objective of being places of worship. This is aided with the introduction of concepts such as secularism and globalization. However, symbolically, Catholicism remains a force.  While walking through the city of lights, I was constantly reminded of this through the presence of spiritual relics that came in the form of churches and cathedrals. Some of the street names also reinforced the dominant religion with names such as Saint Honore (like the pastry in Angelina), Saint Severin and Saint Denis.   In this blog, I will provide highlights of tours of Notre Dame, Saint Chapelle and Sacre Coeur.

     According to the information provided, the first stone was laid in 1163 . The building’s design and structure mimics the artistic movement of the 12^th and 13^th century, gothic style. The cathedral is the official seat of the Archbishop of Paris.  The site is noted for containing the world’s largest organs and for its baptized church bells. Like Saint Chappelle, the site is unique for its stained glass windows. It is particularly famous for containing the crown of thorns, which was once located Saint Chapelle.  Aesthetically, this was my favorite Cathedral.  I loved the detailing of sculptures especially that of the chosen and condemned, which is located at the entrance of the building.

 

 The Sacre Coeur was my favorite in regards to location.   The basilica, which is located on the hill of Montmartre, gives a spiritual experience. Unlike, my peers I took the train instead of the stairs but I felt as if I was ascending into heaven. This was also aided with the basilica being white, which was beautiful with the natural rays of sunshine upon it. It was noted that the hill, where Sacre Coeur is located has been sacred since pagan times. The name Sacre Coeur refers to the heart of Jesus (the sacred Heart). The dome of the basilica comes second to Eiffle tower in regards to being one of the highest points. This was particularly beautiful, because it provided a panoramic view of the city.

 

 

Lastly, Saint Chappelle though the least ornate and detailed of the three, stole the show with its stained glass window.  I have visited several cathedrals, which contained glass stained however I have never seen them so colorful and organized. The 15 stained-glass windows are approximately 50 ft in length; they entail vital scenes from the Bible, which dates from the infancy of Jesus to the Passion. There is said to be over 1,113 small panels. The church was built in 1248. It gained popularity because it contained a treasure chest for one of the world’s most valuable collections of sacred relics. The most important arguably was the Crown of Thorns, which was purchased under the reign of Louis IX.

 

 

 

Overall, there is no doubt that Paris contains and continues to serve as an enforcer of catholic beliefs and heritage. However, These buildings go beyond preserving religion and in a sense proves, why from an artistic (architectural) perspective Paris remains a force to be reckoned with. I am a proud New Yorker , who have seen some of the tallest sky scrapers but I must admit , I have never seen such beauty in “ mere “ buildings.

Paris at Last !!!!

This trip is so surreal at this point. I would describe it as yearning after something then finally having it but fearful of having it. I like many have had my preconceptions of Paris. I took it for face value without realizing that there is more to what meets the eyes. This class in general served as an eye opener in regards to what takes places behind curtains. Paris for me is no longer just the city of love, fashion and food. Now I think more about the social, economic and political disparities amongst the various ethnic groups and nationalities. At time I feel like this view taints my perception of the city .Overall, I cannot quite describe my feelings whether it is nervousness or excitement. I am most looking forward to the Eiffel Towel, because it is the trademark of the nation. It’s like the Lady liberty of New York. My friend Camille gave me suggestions such as Louvre, notre dame, troca-tour Eiffel, concorde, champs Elysse, Montmartre-sacré cœur and coffee at boulevard saint germains. she’s a soccer fan so she also suggested that I go to see a soccer match of the PSG at Parc des Prince. She’s so excited for me so now I want to see what the hype is all about (lol). Overall its like, Paris At Last