Le Castiglione is a cosy, family-run brasserie on Paris’ prestigious rue Saint-Honoré, nestled between the Place Vendôme and the Tuileries.
Le Casti, as it’s affectionately know, is a 1st arrondissement institution and a bi-annual Paris Fashion Week haunt. Sofia Coppola declared Le Casti burger the best in Paris and it’s a favourite of Scott and Garance, weary Vogue editors, fashion buyers and off-duty models (Lara Stone is a fan).
Tho two-floor restaurant and bar is full of Parisian charm with its red velvet banquettes, wood panelling and quirky red and grey leopard print carpet.
On my recent trip to Paris for the European launch of Shinola at Colette, we had a fun dinner with the team behind the brilliant brand, with lots of good wine and indulgent food. You know it’s been a great evening when you’re the last table to leave the restaurant, not that the lovely staff seemed to mind.
Le Casti burger is a Paris food legend that has Parisians and visitors flocking to try it and I was keen to see if it lived up to the hype.
We had a lovely, big table overlooking the rue St-Honore and were served baskets of crusty bread and French butter while scanning the menu. I ordered the Jambon Bellota (19E), as I expected it to be a light starter before indulging in a burger. When it arrived, the portion size was enormous – definitely more than enough for two to share. The Bellota ham was full of flavour and simply melted in the mouth, leaving a tingly, dry sensation.
Le Casti Cheeseburger (24E) is worthy of high praise and definitely one of the tastiest, most satisfying burger that I’ve ever tried in Paris. The medium-cooked and nicely charred beef patty was packed inside a toasted sesame seed bun with layers of gooey Cheddar, optional grilled bacon and the house sauce made from a secret recipe, held together with a posh plastic pin.
The cheeseburger was served with a pot of well-seasoned, crispy French fries and a choice of condiments on request. I liked that the burger itself had a clean, non-greasy taste and the toppings made it rich, decadent and slightly sweet.
Mid-way through dinner, we all decided to go for burgers at Ralph’s the next day, so an accidental ‘battle of the burgers’ thus ensued. They were both completely different, but Le Casti had a slight advantage for its incredible signature sauce and general juiciness.
I couldn’t resist finishing with a French classic of Apple Tart with vanilla ice cream (11E). The thin and crispy pastry base was topped with layers of soft sliced apple and a crunchy, caramelised crust. We also indulged in a delicious dessert wine, which went perfectly with the tart.
Le Castiglione is a delightful, intimate place to eat comforting French classics and enjoy the atmosphere. The staff are utterly charming and patient with large groups, plus the small outdoor terrace is great for a spot of people-watching. I can see why Le Casti is spoken about so fondly and I’m sure it won’t be long before I’m lured back to those red velvet seats for more delicious burgers.
For more information, visit: www.lecastiglione.com
Chérie City was a guest of Shinola
All photos by Chérie City
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