However, one of the most interesting things I've discovered is just how international the food scene in Paris really is.
For example, the 13th arrondissement, or district, is known for its large Asian community and wide variety of Asian restaurants. Walking through this neighborhood, you can find Vietnamese, Chinese and other Asian cuisines. Throughout Paris, I've also noticed many Middle Eastern restaurants and kebab shops. These places offer delicious alternatives to traditional French dishes and show how different communities have contributed to the city's food culture.
Growing up in the United States and Mexico, I was already familiar with how food can bring different cultures together. Paris has reminded me of that even more. While French cuisine is an important part of the country's identity, the food available here also reflects the many people and cultures that call the city home.
One thing I've learned is that exploring a new country doesn't always mean trying only its traditional foods. Sometimes, the best way to understand a city is to discover how different cultures have influenced it.
Questions for you!
If you could create your own crêpe right now, what ingredients would you put inside? Would you choose something sweet or savory?
Would you be willing to try escargot, or have you tried it before? What's a food from your culture that someone from another country might find surprising?
