Jordan B.
Yelp
Through my hours of research prior to our trip to Paris, I knew a couple of things for certain. 1.) My husband and I needed at least one night where we could dress up and celebrate our anniversary/30th birthday in a Paris-y charm type of way and 2.) we MUST try the famous Christmas Bûche de Nöel...and it needed to be from Bar Vendôme at the Ritz Carlton (thanks to the Pinterest blogger who totally convinced me that this was the move.) Well, I'm not surprised at all that this experience landed itself 5 stars. If I could, I'd break the Yelp scale by giving it 7 stars. We made our reservations weeks in advance and from the moment we stepped in...we were treated like royalty. They grabbed our winter gear and stored it in the coat closet, sat us in our little private and dimly lit corner of the room, and helped us navigate the French menu. While it was obvious that we were Americans attempting to enjoy the fully French way of living, we had great conversations with the staff about where we should go and returned the favor by sharing must-see spots in the U.S. Our food arrived in the most beautiful presentation. I'm not kidding; think Beauty and the Beast styled cutlery and a chef opening up the serving platter to show you your meal - it was divine. Then, for the grand finale! They bring out the Buche de Noel (that we requested at the same time we booked the reservation), accompanied with a sweet "Bonne Anniversaire" tune playing on the piano in the background. The delicate dessert was presented to the two of us with white gloved hands and a candle on top! I felt like I was living in a movie. Last but not least, if you happen to be in Paris during winter, this is the place for you. In the foyer, there was had a massive Christmas tree that immediately catches your eye. Outside, you'll walk through cobblestone streets of twinkling bright lights and realize you're walking in a winter wonderland. Ahhh...Take me back!!!!