I wanted a positive post to kick off 2019. Ironically, heading back to work provided the inspiration and reminded me why I just love Paris so much. The last few weeks have been strange from a work perspective.

Between, the U.S. government shutdown, Brexit, the gilet jeunes (yellow vest) protests in France, etc, it has felt like an uncertain start to the new year. Maybe now that the super blood moon has passed, thing will start to get back into gear soon!  A weekend trip back to Rome, and catching up with good friends, has given me plenty of inspiration to charge ahead with my plans for 2019.  

The proprietors of Le Grand Corona Paris must have sensed that Parisians needed a pick me up for the post holiday season. The cafe was completely decked out with giant teddy bears to greet passers by for the first big Monday commute of the year.

It turns out that the cafe owners were inspired by a teddy bear takeover that occurred in the Gobelins neighborhood in the 13th arrondissement last November. According to reports a neighborhood bookseller, Philippe filled the local metro, cafes, and businesses with 50 giant teddy bears to bring some cheer to his neighbors. His initiative caught the attention of international press and has caused a splash on social media as well.  There is even a Facebook page dedicated to teddy bear invasion.  You never know when I might encounter one as they seem to randomly pop up everywhere from hair salons to weddings officiated at local district city halls.  

I decided to postpone my weekly ritual of catching up on Bachelor Nation that night (I can’t watch the live show overseas anyway) and stopped at the cafe for dinner.  I had been meaning to try it out anyway since I pass by almost daily.  Tourism slows down after the holidays, so the owners decision to host a teddy bear takeover was smart marketing. Paris has also been hit by protests every Saturday since late November, which is further reducing traffic in restaurants.

The bears definitely helped counter that with a steady stream of clients looking to share a pre-dinner aperitif with the cuddly compatriots.

Still, the indoor dining area was not crowded. I wound up with an attentive waiter that didn’t get offended when I did the very American thing of asking for modifications to menu.  

I really enjoyed this alternative to the traditional steak frites (steak and fries) staple on almost every menu in Parisian cafes. I love French green beans and these were dripping in buttery garlic combination that was heavenly.  Definitely an unplanned splurge for a week night.

To complete the meal, I ordered a tea gourmand (there is also a coffee option), which comes with a trio of mini French desserts. Despite the description, these would be fine as a single portion.  My waiter also offered fresh mint to go along with my tea.

I may have to stop in again for just the tea and vanilla flavored creme brûlée, which was AAMAAZING!