Alex Asacker is a freelancer living in Toronto's West End. 
Le “Relais de l’Entrecôte”
A trip to Paris just isn’t complete without a visit to l’Entrecôte. I was introduced to this restaurant by Fiona when I first visited her in Paris in the spring of 2005. One of her favourite places to eat, and now one of mine, l’Entrecôte is located at 20, rue Saint-Benoît Paris near the Saint Germain des Prés metro.
Paul and I went for lunch on a Tuesday and found it was still crowded at 1pm. We were greeted by a waitress, clad in the traditional black dress with a white collar and white apron. We were seated at a wooden table surrounded by the traditional brasserie decor. But, we were not given any menus as there is only one choice: l’entrecôte steak with its famous, and we like to say, “magic” sauce accompanied by a heaping pile of thin french fries.
We ordered waters to drink and were asked how we’d like our steak. We had our choices written on the paper tablecloth. We were then brought fresh french baguette and a green salad with walnuts and a dijon dressing.
When our steak arrived the conversation came to a halt. We dug into the thin juicy steaks smothered in the magic creamy sauce and the warm crisp french fries. As we cleared our plates we knew just what to expect and watched with glee as our waitress piled on another helping of steak and fries. Utterly delicious.
Without drinks our meal for two came to 45 euros. Though a treat it was long awaited and so thoroughly enjoyed. Although I’ve had l’entrecôte elsewhere there is nothing quite like being at Le “Relais de l’Entrecôte” in Paris. You can reach them at 01 45 49 16 00.
