Avoiding Tourist-Trap Food in Paris

"Vegetarian in Paris with Amber Haggerty" is your ultimate guide to eating meat-free in the City of Light—and trust me, it's easier (and tastier) than you think! In this episode of Join Us in France, host Annie Sargent chats with Amber Haggerty, the expert behind The Vegetarian in Paris blog, about where to find the best plant-based meals in Paris. Whether you're a lifelong vegetarian, a curious foodie, or just looking to explore meat-free options, Amber shares her insider tips for navigating Parisian menus, avoiding tourist traps, and discovering hidden gems that even locals love.

Amber, a long-time vegetarian and Paris resident, reveals her favorite spots for everything from savory Breton galettes at Breizh Café to upscale vegetarian dining at Pristine, where the mushroom tart is legendary. She also highlights cozy wine bars like Le 1745, where you can build your own cheese board, and tiny bakeries like Le Comptoir de la Madeleine, famous for its warm, buttery madeleines. And if you're craving international flavors, she recommends Habesha for Ethiopian feasts or Zia for New Mexican brunch near the Eiffel Tower.

But this episode isn't just about restaurants. Amber and Annie dive into practical advice, like how to spot vegetarian-friendly dishes on French menus (hint: the sprout emoji doesn't always mean meat-free!) and where to shop for gourmet ingredients, like 30-month-aged Comté at Fromagerie Hardouin. You'll also learn what gifts to bring home—think French salt, artisanal butter, or vacuum-packed galettes—that food lovers will adore.

What makes this conversation special? Amber's passion for Paris shines through as she proves that vegetarian dining in the city isn't about sacrifice—it's about discovering delicious, creative meals that celebrate French cuisine without the meat. Annie's warm, engaging style makes it feel like you're getting advice from a trusted friend, and by the end, you'll be ready to book your trip and eat your way through Paris like a pro.

If you've ever wondered how to enjoy French food as a vegetarian, this episode is for you. Hit subscribe to Join Us in France so you never miss an episode, and get ready to explore Paris one delicious bite at a time. Perfect for food lovers, travelers, and anyone dreaming of their next French adventure!

Table of Contents for this Episode

• [00:00:15] Introduction and Guest Welcome
• [00:00:31] Today on the podcast
• [00:00:58] Podcast supporters
• [00:01:24] Magazine segment
• [00:02:17] Vegetarian in Paris with Amber Haggerty
• [00:02:33] Living as a Vegetarian in Paris
• [00:03:21] Challenges of Being Vegetarian in Paris
• [00:04:31] Navigating Menus and Ingredients
• [00:07:58] Traditional French Dishes for Vegetarians
• [00:10:22] Favorite places to buy food in Paris
• [00:14:04] Favorite gifts to bring home
• [00:15:28] Favorite Restaurants and Creperies
• [00:19:35] Wine Bars and Cheese Tasting
• [00:23:27] Sweet Treats and Madeleines
• [00:24:43] Discovering Le Comptoir de la Madeleine
• [00:27:11] Exploring Jean-Paul Hevin Chocolatier
• [00:28:39] L'Avent Comptoir de la Mer: A Seafood Delight
• [00:30:17] Ethiopian Cuisine at Habesha
• [00:32:03] New Mexican Flavors at Zia
• [00:33:09] Vegan Delights at Plan D
• [00:34:29] Italian Salads at Cosi
• [00:35:54] Smash Burgers at DUMBO
• [00:37:03] American Breakfast at Holly Belly
• [00:38:08] Navigating Parisian Food as a Vegetarian
• [00:41:11] Last advice
• [00:41:52] International Food Scene in Paris
• [00:44:10] Final Thoughts and Farewell
• [00:44:59] Thank You Patrons
• [00:46:08] Tips for First-Time Travelers to Europe
• [00:46:46] Hotel Tips for European Travel
• [00:47:22] No toiletries in budget hotel
• [00:47:43] Bring Your Own Washcloth
• [00:48:01] Hotel Rooms are small
• [00:48:45] Turn on the lights
• [00:49:12] For Ventilation open a window
• [00:49:34] No Carpet in most Hotel Rooms
• [00:49:53] Essential Travel Items and Security
• [00:50:22] Understanding Power Converters and Adapters
• [00:51:17] Travel Light
• [00:51:33] Cultural Etiquette in Europe
• [00:52:13] Handling Problems Calmly in Europe
• [00:53:22] Renting and Driving Electric Vehicles in France
• [00:54:49] Charging Your EV in France
• [01:00:50] About the Price of Charging
• [01:01:46] Final Thoughts on EV Travel in France
• [01:02:38] Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes
• [01:02:51] Next week on the podcast
• [01:03:15] Copyright

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