There are times when nothing quite satisfies like shellfish, and France's sprawling coastline has no shortage. From plump mussels and tender scallops to crab, winkles and whelks, even lobster (the famous "Breton blue lobster" native to the northeastern Atlantic), more, every craving is catered to.
Years ago, while staying in London, I met a French student at Sotheby's Institute of Art who shared a delicious secret. She told me how her father, a chef living in Normandy, would tell everyone he was off to Paris on business but instead, his pilgrimages to the capital were for one reason alone: to treat himself to a seafood platter at legendary Café de la Paix. Hands rubbing together in anticipation, he'd claim a prime terrace seat with the majestic Opéra Garnier in view and dive in, and there he'd sit, undisturbed, savoring every bite like a monarch lost in a lavish spread - glistening oysters, succulent shrimps, crab, clams, mussels, lobster tail... - all to himself.
Today, Paris' seafood platters seem like they're trying to outdo each other, each one more varied than the next. With oyster season upon us, now is a good time to gear up for some zinc-packed feasts that hit all the right spots. - BPJ
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Sharing (or not) seafood platters and towers can get pricey due to premium quality and sourcing. Expect to pay €65 - €150 euros for an elaborate, multi-tiered platter for two or more. Prices vary based on size and can climb for inclusions like caviar or lobster. Many spots emphasize sustainable fisheries and small producers, aligning with modern fooding trends:
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