Paella is an iconic dish of Spanish cuisine, originating in the Valencia region on the east coast of Spain. Did you know? There are several legends aboutthe origin of paella, but most historians agree that it was created in the 18th century.
According to some sources, paella originated in the Albufera marshes near Valencia, where fishermen and farm workers prepared their meals with whatever they had on hand, namely rice and vegetables, as well as fish or meat. Other sources indicate that paella was created by the lords of the Valencia region, who organized large parties and ordered this dish for their guests.
Popularized in the 19th century when rice became more readily available and began to be cultivated in the region, thisdish, now eaten throughout Spain, is today considered a symbol of Iberian culture and cuisine!
There are several paella recipes, each with its own ingredients and variations, so there's something to suit everyone! Valencian paella is the best-known version and consists of rice, chickpeas, vegetables, and meat or fish. Paella marinera is a version with fish and seafood, while paella mixta includes fish, meat, and vegetables.
So, which one appeals to you the most? Here are some great places to go in Paris!
Buenas, a warm Spanish restaurant with an Almodovar atmosphere
Enter an atmosphere worthy of an Almodovar film at Buenas, a particularly warm Spanish restaurant in Strasbourg Saint-Denis. [Read more]
Bar-Restaurant Manigua, Cuban-style bistronomy in the 9th arrondissement of Paris
Manigua is an astonishing bar-restaurant in Paris's 9th arrondissement, offering dishes from the four corners of the globe revisited in Cuban style. A wonderful culinary experience! [Read more]
Suelo, the festive Spanish restaurant in the Golden Triangle
Spanish restaurant Suego opens its doors in September. On the program: Iberian specialties upstairs and creative cocktails in the speakeasy. [Read more]
Le Minet Galant, a charming French bistro a stone's throw from the Bouffes Parisiens theater
A charming French bistro a stone's throw from the Bouffes Parisiens theater, Le Minet Galant declaims its love of bistro-style cooking. [Read more]
Les Caves Saint-Gilles, an authentic tapas bar as lively as in Spain
Bubbling and noisy as Spain, Caves Saint-Gilles is reborn with a new owner. Here, we devour Iberian tapas and generous paella while toasting with a pitcher of well-dosed sangria! [Read more]
Montijo: a bodega-style dining cellar in Paris
Looking for a spot with a vacation vibe? Head for Montijo, the arty dining cellar on the Batignolles side of Paris, which transports you straight to the shores of the Mediterranean, and more specifically to Spain. On the menu: natural wines, bodega atmosphere and Hispanic products, all in a stunning setting. [Read more]
Find the location of all these restaurants by clicking on the map at the bottom of the article.
