Introduction by Linda DonahueThe first thing I learned about Yetunde Oshodi is that she has magnificent taste. That this Nigerian-born, New York-raised wonderwoman made her home in Paris after spending time in France as a child was my first clue. But after meeting the owner of Feels Like Home in Paris for lunch at La Table d’Eugene in Montmartre, my initial impression is confirmed. Our meal at what she lists as her favorite French restaurant is absolutely exquisite – as is our conversation about life, love and the pursuit of happiness in Paris.
Married to Eric Fraudeau of Cook’N With Class, this avid traveler and budding photographer shares some of her favorite places in Paris with us.
Paris neighborhood
Paris has so many wonderful neighborhoods. I’d have to say though that currently my favorite is the North-side of Montmartre. Rue Caulaincourt for me is one of the most picturesque streets in Paris. It’s the less busy side but is still so full of life.
Restaurant (French)
La Table d’Eugene. I have never had a bad meal. The cuisine is refreshing, delicious and original. It is on the top of my restaurant recommendations.
Restaurant (Ethnic)
This is a tough one because it depends on the cuisine but let’s say: Le Mono – I’m from Nigeria and this Togolese restaurant which has food that is so similar to Nigerian food (though the names are different), brings back such great memories for me – and I love their house-made hot sauce.
La Table d'Eugene
Cheap eats
Le Cambodge – a Cambodian restaurant in the 10th on rue Marie et Louise not far from the Hopital Saint Louis. I have another one but it is a bit further out so I give one that is more accessible.
Food/gourmet shop
Le Bon Marché – I could get lost in there for hours. Everything looks so tasty!
Department store
Printemps – Look at the exterior – it is a beautiful piece of architecture! I could stare at it for hours. Inside, I always head first to the Wedding level where La Maison du Chocolat has a small counter and get myself a caramel éclair – love it!
Chocolate shop
OK, I have to start by saying that I was in the past not a big fan of French chocolates but recently I have been doing some small personal tastings and have fallen head over heels in love with Mococha at 89 rue Mouffetard. I’ve tried quite a few places and this is a new favorite.
Favorite picnic spot
In the 12th just underneath a part of the Promenade plantée.
Favorite Spa
Eclipse et Vous at 6 rue Pierre Demours in the 17th. They have hamman, rooms for dual massages if you want to get one along side your partner and the service is excellent and friendly.
Place for cocktails
La Conserverie. I like the vibe. Reminds me of NY. The music is nice and the concept is interesting and the cocktails are delicious.
Favorite mode of transportation
If I’m not walking or taking the bus, I am on my scooter. It is such a great way to see the city and get around quickly. We’ve recommended a few scooter rental places before, like Ciao Paris
Patisserie /Boulangerie
Le Grenier a Pain – mine on rue Championnet or the one on rue Caulaincourt. The tradition (baguette), is crunchy on the outside but not too hard and soft on the inside, just the way I like it. Sandwiches are nice as well and you have to have a croissant aux amandes, yum!
Breakfast spot
I don’t usually eat breakfast – shameful I know. But if I could modify this to brunch spot, I would say that I have two: Mama Shelter, and the Barber Shop on Ave de la Republique. This is brunch like I like it, savy and sweet. There’s so much choice at Mama Shelter and you can feel satisfied when you leave. Barber shop offers an English style breakfast and an American style breakfast. I go for the English style .
Quiet spot
Deep in the Bois de Boulogne or Vincennes – no traffic, green grass that I can sit on and just plain relaxing.
Paris indulgence
A massage from my friend and massage therapist Hélène Dufleit located in the 9th. She has hands that are so soft yet so strong. I always walk out of there ten feet taller and so Zen.
Day trip from Paris
Tours – I studied there as a student and it was also the first place that I visited on my first trip to Paris. It is just one hour on the TGV and a lovely visit along the Cher & the Loire . I recommend renting a bike when you get there and riding along the fabulous trail along the Cher on the way to Villandry. Place Plumereau is in vieux Tours (old Tours), and is a fantastic spot for drinks and dining not to mention medieval architecture. I’ve always loved it.
