The 16-ème

The 16-ème arrondissement is a quiet area in the west of Paris near the Bois de Boulogne, which houses many embassies.  It is relatively untouched by the tourist hoards that consume many other areas around the city, and so it is possible to experience life as a local with only a little imagination. 

The streetscapes are very French, and even the names are familiar, at least to Dominique Bruneau. 

Rather than endless standard meals at cheap Bistros, the market provided plenty of fresh and interesting food, served with vigour by the locals – one slice at a time if necessary.

Although we did find the maker of the best éclair in Paris, he had made enough money from his fame, and closed for the holidays.

One feature of the area is the statue of Jean de La Fontaine, who watches a scene from one of his fables, an exchange between the crow and the fox in the Jardin Ranelagh, Paris. The fox gets the cheese by telling the crow that he would like to hear his wonderful singing voice. The crow opens his beak to sing, the fox gets the bounty.