Finding Falafel!

See that green sign? That's where I'm waiting to go!

My new favourite area of Paris (I say that every couple of days I think!)….Marais!

Known as the Jewish district, I had heard about L’As du Falaffel from David Lebovitz’s blog.  As he said, “You can’t come to Paris and not have a falafel at L’As du Falaffel.  It just isn’t done.” (from a great post he has “10 Insanely Delicious Things You Shouldn’t Miss in Paris” – I’m working my way through the list, although will skip the chocolate covered marshmallows – yuck. More for you David!)

Anyway, it is well worth the 45 minute wait!  The guy out in the street who took my order was a dear and very helpful (bit confusing at first where to go as the queues are very long!)  I met a nice couple from Buffalo (they assumed I was Jewish and asked me where the temple was – I said I didn’t know and didn’t mention the whole Irish Catholic bit!) and we chatted for a bit while we waited. 

The smell in that street is incredible.  I am a huge fan of falafel (thank heavens for Tazza back home!) and could hardly wait (also, was starving – doesn’t hurt).  There is another place directly across from them that had a similar queue to get served as well!  The street was bustling with locals and tourists alike, wandering, shopping, eating and enjoying the great weather.  The odd car crept through the jostling crowds, slowly and carefully.

Getting closer...

The guy at the window gave me a hard time when I asked for no tomatoes and he asked why not – they are good for you?!?  Didn’t I know? (with a smile) I said that I was allergic and smiled back.  He said, “C’est vrai?” and I said, “Non!” and he laughed.  I had to go back to the older guy as per instructed to get my citron presse.  He got it for me and when he have it to me, he did the Parisian kiss (four times – twice for each cheek) as I said, “Merci, au revoir”. He was very patient with my crap French as he took my order.   I liked them!  Great service and the food…

Omigod, the food.  It was delicious.  Awesome.  Atruly heavenly experience.  The vegetables and sauce were yummy and fresh, the falafel was crisp and hot and the hot sauce really does make it.  They layer it so well in the pita (great pita too) and well, seriously, you just have to try it.  So, so, so, so, so good!

Worth the wait!

I meant to take a picture of it but it is a bit difficult to juggle and frankly, by the time I remembered about half of it was gone!  I’m going back though, so I’ll try to get a picture next time!  The “Ace” of Fafafel for sure!