Ep 24. Paris

In this episode of No Reservations, host Anthony Bourdain explores the romantic and gastronomic capital of France: Paris. Bourdain begins by discussing the complexities of French cuisine and the importance of respecting culinary traditions. He then visits a classic Parisian brasserie, where he samples traditional dishes like escargots and steak frites.

Next, Bourdain takes a walk through the Montmartre neighborhood, which he describes as a "living postcard" with its picturesque streets and cafes. He visits a local boulangerie and samples freshly baked bread before meeting up with a group of graffiti artists to explore the city's street art scene.

Bourdain also visits the Musée de l'Orangerie to see Claude Monet's famous Water Lilies paintings. He reflects on the profound impact French art and culture has had on the world and its enduring legacy.

Food is, of course, a major focus of the episode. Bourdain visits several restaurants and bars where he has lively conversations with locals and tries classic French dishes like coq au vin, bouillabaisse, and tarte tatin. He also visits a small bakery where he gets a lesson in making croissants from scratch.

Towards the end of the episode, Bourdain visits a culinary school where he meets with young chefs who are passionate about preserving and innovating French cuisine. He discusses the challenges of maintaining culinary traditions while also adapting to modern tastes and trends.

Throughout the episode, Bourdain provides his trademark commentary on French culture, from the perception of Paris as a romantic and idyllic city to the complexities and contradictions of French identity. He also pays tribute to the resilience of Parisians in the face of adversity, citing the devastating terror attacks in 2015 and the city's ongoing recovery.

Overall, the Paris episode of No Reservations is a loving tribute to one of the most iconic cities in the world and its timeless culinary and artistic traditions.