We had taken a late morning walk down the Viaduc des Arts, starting at the new Opera House - just thinking we'd get a bit of exercise, check out the interesting stores, and then get lunch somewhere before heading to an afternoon at the Musee Jacquemart-Andre to see the Canaletto exhibit. As luck would have it, we got hungry about halfway down the Viaduc, and turned east towards the Marche d'Aligre. I didn't have any specific destination in mind, but knew there were a few small restos near the market, and on the way to the Metro. And, there, across the street was La Gazzetta - looking warm and inviting.
Knowing a big meal was planned for dinner we wanted to eat lightly - and ended up with a superb meal accompanied by a yummy Sancerre. Three of chose to have the entree and a green salad, for just 11 euros. The entree turned out to be three small dishes, a fabulous and fully flavored pureed onion soup, a slice of pizza bianca with kale and black radish, and a tasty brandade with red peppers. Then, a simple green salad - that may have been the best little plate of lettuce we'd ever had. There was nothing special about the baby greens - but they were dressed so perfectly, with a tease of fleur de sel, that we all looked at each other in amazement. Even looking back, I'm surprised to be raving about it - but it was just so special, and a perfect counterpoint to the trio of entrees.
Our fourth companion had the same entrees, but for 4 Euros more followed his with a beautiful poached sea bass, surrounded by sweet carrots with a deeply caramelized surface and spinach. Espressos, served with small financiers, completed our surprising lunch. And, we went happily - very happily - on our way.
La Gazzetta
29, rue de Cotte, 12th arrondisement
01 43 47 47 05
lagazzetta.fr/
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