Arthur Ponchelet, edited by Yanis Darras // Photo credit: Pexels 11:50 am, May 01, 2023

Paris, land of history but also of gastronomy! The Conciergerie retraces the history of restaurants until July 16. A place of exchange and pleasure that saw his life begin in the gardens of the capital. On the program: iconic recipes, and a fabulous modernity.

A journey into the history of French gastronomy. This is what promises the exhibition at the Conciergerie "Paris, capital of gastronomy, from the Middle Ages to the present day". From the Middle Ages to the court of Louis XIV, to Queen Elizabeth II's first state dinner in France, the exhibition installs visitors in Parisian cuisine. Because the City of Light saw the appearance of the first modern restaurant.

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Choosing à la carte, a novelty

On the menu: sugar omelette, cucumber with pullet or cod à la Provençale. And it was in the gardens of the Royal Palace that the concept of terraces was born. "The real change that took place at the end of the 18th century was really to go outside, in a place where, first, there are hygiene criteria and especially a personalized service," explains to the microphone of Europe 1, Cécile Ribes, administrator of the Conciergerie.

"You can choose what you want to eat on a menu, which is a novelty, because before, you were imposed what you had to eat at a fixed price. So it becomes a real hobby," she continues. A hobby that quickly diversifies constantly with its bistros, broths and cafes.

A reflection of society

"It's a reflection of the social realities of a certain era. Later, in the 19th century, especially with broths in restaurants, we will really start to address a clientele that is also much more popular," adds Cécile Ribes.

A popular clientele for the world capital of gastronomy. Under the vaults of the Conciergerie, where there are old maps and stories of historical meals, and also a chocolate spire of the Sainte Chapelle. But beware of indigestion.