I rent an apt. in Paris for several weeks a year. When this place opened, not far from where I live on the Ile St. Louis, I was intrigued: any place located off the Seine, in the Marais, with that name had to be pretty cool, n'est-ce pas?
Non, non non. Last year, it was closed every time I wanted to venture in. When I finally found it open, it was pretty packed at 9pm. The bartender/manager/whatever the hell he was (owner?) led me to a small table, to which his adorable French bulldog was tethered. I'm a dog lover, so I was thrilled. But it too forever to get said bartender's attention for my glass of vin rouge, and when I finally did, it was mediocre (he suggested it, I forget what it was). The place was loud, the vibe pretty blah, and the service subpar but tolerable.
I just returned from my stay yesterday. I went back to LOW my first week-again, packed, around the same hour. I managed to snag a stool at a communal table, again in the back. I perused the menu, and decided to order one of the infused "alcools" listed. I went to the bar, where same Bar Homme was carving charcuterie from an enormous machine. I waited ten minutes, while he chatted with those I assumed were his regulars. He saw me hovering, and pretty much ignored me. I speak pretty good French, and when at last he graced me with his gaze, I ordered the drink. He gave me a contemptuous look, and barked, "Only wine. We only serve wine here!!". And turned back to his saucisson sec. I said (en Francaise), "But this is on menu!". He ignored me, and continued to converse with the annointed barflies. I was furious-I grabbed my coat and muttered, "This is B*llsh*t!" under my breath as I left.
Avoid this joint. So not all that, and a waste of an evening and your Euros. Paris has a fabulous wine and cocktail culture, like NYC, where I live. Chose another, more deserving place. read more