LaFleur de Paris

Things I love in Paris this Fall

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Leffler) — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 19:02:00 +0000

…And, by “Fall,” I of course mean WINTER since as of this week, Paris has become transformed into a veritable tundra. Please remind me again how I survived winters at Dartmouth in Hanover, New Hamphire again? Oh, right. Unfortunately, wearing four pairs of long underwear and sorority buttpants, three turtlenecks under three different layers of North Face fleeces and a puffy coat that bore a strange resemblance to the marshmallow man just doesn’t cut it on the chic streets of Paris. Dear Karl L. and company, how about next fashion week, we bring back insulated coats and earmuffs? Just a thought…
On that note, as Fall ends and winter begins, these are a few of my favorite things (to be sung, bien sûr) …

Anna Rivka

I think I’m a princess. It’s not my fault. I blame Anna Rivka. The French designer makes such beautiful headpieces that my head now feels the need to be crowned whenever possible.
I’m absolutely in love with all of the jewelry in the adorable shop on the rue Vieille du Temple in my new “NoMa” neighborhood. From the original “diadèmes” to more classic earrings, rings, necklaces and bracelets, Anna Rivka really does have a little bit of something for every taste and style. I love the more simple, basic black and white tiny earrings and rings for everyday and also the more colorful, fun pieces that always make a splash on screen or on the red carpet. I love some of the more retro new designs that are a cross between “Mad Men” and a very chic, girly French fille.
My head, ears, fingers, wrists and neck have never been more well-adorned. Plus, all of the jewelry is handmade and unique and, surprisingly, relatively affordable given the quality.
Once upon a time… OK so perhaps I don’t live in a fairytale, but as long as Anna Rivka keeps making gorgeous headbands, at least I can pretend I’m a princess, oui ?
http://www.annarivka.fr/

Cézanne at the Musée du Luxembourg

OK, so I’m stalking Cézanne (see my blog about the Steins at le Grand Palais http://lafleurdeparis.blogspot.com/2011/11/steins-at-le-grand-palais.html) - so what? The man is EVERYWHERE this season.
“The Master of Aix” is featured in a lovely expo at the adorable Musee du Luxembourg titled “Cézanne et Paris” that focuses on the painter’s time spent between Provence and the Ile-de-France region and his relationships with Pissarro, Renoir, Monet and Guillamin.
The exhibition is rather short and sweet, but it leaves ample time for a nice stroll around the Luxembourg Gardens.
The expo runs through the end of February 2012 – definitely check it out if you can.

Sempé at l’Hôtel de Ville

I really loved the “Sempé: A Bit of Paris” exhibition at the Hôtel de Ville. It runs through mid-February and boasts more than 300 drawings from the famous French cartoonist. I was familiar with Le Petit Nicolas series, but the expo also features several other comics that give a great tour of Paris through the eyes of this creative artist. The expo also features Sempé’s drawings from his time in New York and work with The New Yorker. Sempé’s sense of humor and attention to detail are in the spotlight at this lovely exhibition that I highly recommend.

Spain between two centuries: from Zuloaga to Picasso at l’Orangerie

I fell in love with an older man the first time I came to Paris when I was 16 years old. This man was around 120 years old at the time in fact. I’m talking about Claude Monet. There are few things that make me happier than standing in front of the huge paintings of Monet’s waterlilies at l’Orangerie. Now, there’s another reason to head across the Tuileries to l’Orangerie: a great exhibition called “Spain between Two Centuries, from Zuloaga to Picasso 1890 – 1920.” The expo follows the parallel paths of these emblematic figures of Spanish art and runs through January 9th, 2012.

French Cinema

You may have noticed that I have a slight obsession with le 7ème art. In fact, I’ve turned a career into it. This year, more than ever, French cinema is as they say here “en pleine forme” (in great shape). I’ve seen such wonderful films lately that deserve a mention, if you haven’t already heard of them, namely Michael Hazanavicius’ The Artist (watch out for this one at the Oscars), Eric Toledano and Olivier Nakache’s Intouchables (The Weinstein Co will release this in the US for all of you stateside cinephiles out there) and Melanie Laurent’s Les Adoptés (impressive for an actress’ directorial debut). Vive le cinema!

Grass

Yes, grass is indeed on my list of favorite things. Don’t worry, I haven’t been smoking herb. Actually, I’m DRINKING it. And…get ready for this… I’m even growing it. Feel free to tell the French authorities – this kind of grass is totally legal, dude. (I just said “dude.”) My grass addiction all began at the Marché Raspail on Sunday at Hermione’s sprouted stand. Well, the STAND isn’t sprouted, but pretty much everything there is. Hermione has become famous in Parisian health food circles for her home-grown herbs, sprouts, plants and wheat and barley grasses. On Sundays, Hermione serves up wheat and barley grass shots and freshly squeezed carrot juice. Her wheatgrass shot mixed with apple and ginger is not only an energy jolt in a tiny paper cup, but it’s also delicious. Since I was finding it hard to wait until Sunday every week, I took it upon myself to grow and make my own wheatgrass juice. And by “myself,” I mean I simply buy a large tray of already-growing wheatgrass from Hermione and then just cut it up to put into my Greenstar Elite juicer, which pretty much makes its own juices its so good. The Greenstar Elite has changed my life after just a few days in my possession. There is literally nothing like a shot of wheatgrass to detoxify and give a huge – caffeine-free, mind you – energy burst. It’s best in the morning on its own, but I personally prefer to mix mine with some spinach, apple and ginger. The grass really IS greener… It IS easy being green… but only if you have this juicer. Trust moi. It also does a lot of other things, but I’m still an amateur so to be continued…
If you’re in Europe, you can order a Greenstar here: http://www.keimling.fr/

David Wolfe

Holy cow…cao! David Wolfe made a stop in Paris on his European tour and sacre bleu algae was it fantastic. Le Roi du Raw himself, the King of Cru, spent three days in the city to share his vast knowledge about la vie en raw. Wolfe has so much energy (which now I can understand having tasted his cacao) and he radiates light all around him. I was thrilled to meet him and hope he brings his raw rock star self back to la France soon !
…And if you’re looking for a way to keep track of time until he does, check out the Camp Rawnora Raw 2012 calendar at http://rawnora.com/ - a delicious way to heat up the new year (as long as its heated under 118 degrees of course).

And Last but not least …
… the launch of REBECOOK!

Rebecook Generic from wikitube on Vimeo.

Want to eat quickly, healthily and deliciously? ME TOO. I’m not a chef, bien sûr, but wanted to show that it’s possible for anyone – even a journalist in a tiny Parisian kitchen with no culinary training (cough cough) – to whip up delicious food that’s not too expensive, not too complicated and not too long, but of course TOO tasty.
Check it out! (Note: it’s still in the beginning stages, so questions/comments welcome!)
http://rebecook.wikitu.be/

Rebeccook Intro from wikitube on Vimeo.

Rebecook Yogurt from wikitube on Vimeo.

FIACing around

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Leffler) — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 10:57:00 +0000

What the FIAC was I thinking? I totally forgot to blog about this. A bit late, but voilà some fun photos from the opening night of MODERN art show le FIAC at Le Grand Palais.

Coldplay and Crash Testing !

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Leffler) — Sun, 06 Nov 2011 13:48:00 +0000

Sharing the screen with Coldplay on Canal+!
This week's CRASH TEST movie reviews on LE GRAND JOURNAL!
http://player.canalplus.fr/#/537663

THE HELP AND INTOUCHABLES ON FRANCE 24

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Leffler) — Sun, 06 Nov 2011 13:39:00 +0000

On France 24 talking about two wonderful films, THE HELP and INTOUCHABLES. Check it out at

http://www.france24.com/en/20111031-the-help-emma-stone-taylor-kathryn-stockett-intouchables-toledano-omar-sy-francois-cluzet-rebecca-leffler-en-culture

Q&A Michel Hazanavicius

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Leffler) — Sun, 06 Nov 2011 13:34:00 +0000

Voilà- my interview with THE ARTIST director Michel Hazanavicius in today's THR AFM daily. If you haven't seen THE ARTIST yet, make sure to add it to your movie "palette" !

The Steins at le Grand Palais

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Leffler) — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 19:44:00 +0000

I (not so) secretly want to be a Stein. Sure, the Lefflers are great and I’m sure had their fun at the start of the 20th century, but I would have wanted to have been a Stein in Paris circa 1907. Or at least a friend of the family. Gertrude, Leo, Michael and Sarah were the coolest kids on the block (the block being the rue de Fleurus of course). Oh, and they had quite the art collection, may I add. The collection is on display at the moment at Le Grand Palais. The expo is a fabulous mélange of info about the Stein family in Paris and paintings from their collection. The expo really focuses on this extraordinary family who so influenced literature and art during the early part of the 20th century. I would love to travel back in time and attend some of their parties – oh wait, I recently did when I saw Woody Allen’s “Midnight in Paris.” This expo is also a trip back in time, complete with some incredible art from Matisse, Picasso, Cézanne, plus Renoir, Manguin, Bonnard, Vallotton, Gris, Masson, Picabia and others. Definitely check out “Matisse, Cézanne, Picasso… The Stein Family” at le Grand Palais if you’re in Paris before January 16th.

Matières à réflexion

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Leffler) — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 18:41:00 +0000

Matières à réflexion
19 rue de Poitou 75003 Paris
You know the feeling. In French, they call it “coup de foudre”. In English, love at first sight. It happened to me on the rue de Poitou just a few days ago. I was walking along when, out of the blue, it caught my eye. After only a few minutes, it was true love.
The tiny shop on the rue de Poitou doesn’t even have a sign with the store’s name on it. Yes, it’s THAT cool. Only the coolest nightclubs don’t have a sign on the door. This is le Baron of hip Paris boutiques if you will. Inside, the theme is quality over quantity. The shop makes their own bags – all made from vintage leather. The bags are unique – from a shoulder bag made from old leather pants with butt pockets on the side to more classic messenger bags, there is something for everyone. The jewelry is beautiful too and, in a city with more scarves per square mile than people, their scarves stand out. I also love their shoes from adorable Italian brand Anniel – they’re like walking on clouds (very stylish clouds, for that matter). It’s a very “NoMa” spot (NoMa being short for “North Marais,” copyright Rebecca Leffler 2010, but it’s now spread across the ‘hood) – hippie chic, with a classy twist. The name means literally “Materials for reflection” and trust me, you’ll be reflecting over which materials to buy once you set foot inside.
Check out their website and e-shop:
www.matieresareflexion.com
http://www.matieresareflexion.kingeshop.com/

ZEE ARTEEST

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Leffler) — Sat, 15 Oct 2011 09:12:00 +0000

Here's a clip of France's 24's morning movies culture show from this week where I talk about THE ARTIST and other English-language fare making waves from this side of the Atlantic.

http://www.france24.com/en/20112011-the-artist-jean-dujardin-berenice-bejo-oscars-french-film-taken-liam-neeson-tinker-tailor-rebecca-leffleur-en-culture

Besson in Busan

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Leffler) — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 14:03:00 +0000

The Lady (me) talks to The Man (Luc Besson) about his latest film The Lady before it premieres at the Busan Film Festival. Here's the story in today's THR daily:

Le Crash Test

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Leffler) — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 12:44:00 +0000

This week's movie reviews on "Le Grand Journal" !
I hope this is not the last time I share the bed- er, I mean SCREEN with Ryan Gosling.
;)

The link:
http://player.canalplus.fr/#/524959
(I come on around 9 minutes in)

Who's Afraid of the Big, Good Wolfe?

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Leffler) — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 08:28:00 +0000

A Wolfe is descending on Paris, France!
Don’t be scared, this Wolfe is here to help you.
He doesn’t bite. Well, he does bite into delectable, healing raw foods, but that’s about it. Unless you are made of cacao or avocado, I think you’re safe.
I have yet to meet David Wolfe, but I have heard only wonderful things about the master nutritionist and longevity health expert. Wolfe is a best-selling author who has worked with top talents in Hollywood and VIPs from across the globe, but makes sure to remain true to his roots touring the country to give lectures and educate people on the power of nutrition.
Paris’ resident raw food queen Arletty Abady is bringing Wolfe to Paris for a lecture series at the end of October. Arletty recently spoke with Wolfe and has shared her exclusive interview with me. Here, Wolfe talks about foods you can eat to make you more beautiful, specific foods that he calls “happy foods” that do indeed live up to their advertisement, how to protect yourself from radiation and toxic foods that most of us eat nearly every day, while giving a sneak preview of what to expect during his tour de France.
Check it out at – sorry, let me rephrase that, check it out NOW before the video is removed in two weeks – at :

http://arlettyabady.com/David-Wolfe-In-Paris-Interview.htm
If you’re interested in attending the events from October 26th – 28th in Paris, email Arletty at arlettyabady@gmail.com and tell her Rawbecca sent you. (Rawbecca is my healthy alter-ego who occasionally emerges in this land of heavenly pastry to make an appearance in the green world.)

Paris Vegan Day

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Leffler) — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 12:53:00 +0000

I’m back. And Veg-er than ever.

Yes, another blog about Paris Vegan Day. What can I say? I am veg-obsessed. And who wouldn’t be after a visit to last weekend’s impressive Paris Vegan Day?
I headed to La Bellevilloise, a vast space in the 20th arrondissement, that was packed with companies showcasing their products and associations and filled to the brim with an eager crowd of French and international Vegan and Non-Vegan visitors. I couldn’t believe just how many people showed up and how much positive energy was circulating at PVD (PVD being Paris Vegan Day, though it does sound like a sexually-transmitted disease, so I just want to clarify.)
Guests were treated to cooking demos from top chefs from across the globe like Mark Reinfeld, Dany Culaud and Fran Costigan, plus a fashion show that rivaled the likes of Chanel and Rykiel at this year's simultaneous Paris Fashion Week. Organizers estimate that around 7,500-8,500 people attended over the course of the weekend.
Who knew that Paris, France the world capital of foie gras and cream would attract so many animal-friendly veggie-lovers? What’s even more incredible is that Paris Vegan Day’s founders, Deborah Brown Pivain and her family – of Gentle Gourmet B&B fame – started this a few years ago with just a small budget and a big vision and today, the event has become such a hit.

While I enjoyed meeting all of the brands who came in from all over Europe, special mention goes to the following discoveries:

Keimling
Gutentag, Keimling! That was about the extent of my German-speaking skills, but I was happy to meet the team from Keimling, a massive European raw lifestyle site whose motto is “I feel good!” (Actually, it’s “Mir Geht’s Gut!” But that just doesn’t have the same ring to it for my Anglo-Saxon ears.) Keimling came out in force with a large stand upstairs at the fair and several cooking demos using their high-tech equipment like dehydators or the incredible, edible Vitamix. (Note: the actual Vitamix isn’t edible, but pretty much anything and everything you put into it will be after a quick spin around.) Parisian raw foodist/yogini/health coach Arletty Abady was on hand whipping up frozen smoothies and other raw delicacies all weekend long and Keimling’s team of professionals were friendly and informative. (By the way, if you're in Paris and don't know Arletty, she's Queen of all things raw in the capital - check out her site http://arlettyabady.com/ and blog http://latelier.crusine.over-blog.com/ for sure, so inspiring!)

Keimling's vast website not only features the top equipment, but also raw recipes, quality raw food products, body care and books. Their English-language site: http://www.keimling.eu
Keimling’s team even have a blog themselves http://www.rawfood-blog.com/ for the English version and http://www.mixer-deshydrater-crudites.fr/ en French.

Market’Veg

I was thrilled to meet the mother-daughter team Colette and Nadège of Market’Veg. Market Veg’s website sells both handmade and imported natural, raw food products and this Mère-fille team also have a great blog at filled with health advice and fantastic recipes. http://veganbio.typepad.com/
Colette and Nadège have written a book about “The Incredible Benefits of Green Smoothies” and seem to know a lot about la vie en green. They’ve researched products from all over, and have handpicked a select number to sell on their site. They even make their own! Their sprouted buckwheat groats are absolutely delicious and have made their way into my cereal bowl almost every day this week. They also make homemade crackers and granolas, in addition to selling top products from around Europe like Detox Your World’s tahini and nut butters, that I’ve gone very quickly through already since this weekend, I admit.

http://www.marketveg.com/

RRRAW
OK, so Frédéric Marr and his delectable raw chocolates aren’t a NEW discovery for moi (see: http://lafleurdeparis.blogspot.com/2011/05/rrrawbecca.html) But the chef, teacher and master chocolatier is back with several new flavors including a “Nuit Blanche” (or “Up all night”) flavor and another called “Sweet Dreams.” Both come in adorable tin cases that whether you’re looking for some guarana to keep you up for hours or give a friend some sweet cashew and coconut to help his/her slumber, are the perfect gift.

http://www.rrraw.fr/

GOOD Hemp

If you’ve been reading le blog lately, you’ll know I am also a hempaholic and addicted to the tasty seeds. Well, I’ve found some Good ones, and they are GREAT. Not only are the Good hemp seeds and oils made from all-natural cannabis products grown right in the UK, but the founders hail from the film biz. Director of Photography Henry Braham and producer Glynis Murray are still making movies (think: “Everybody’s Fine” with Robert DeNiro among other high-profile titles), but they’re also growing and selling homemade hemp products like seeds, oils, protein powders, hemp milks, salad dressings and hemp-based mayonnaise. Braham and Murray’s products are made at Collabear Farm in North Devon, near Barnstaple (Can you get a more wonderfully British name than that?)
Nice to know that when I’m over the entertainment biz, I can buy a farm and grow some of my own hemp. Until then, I’ll just munch on Braham and Murray’s hemp seeds in between red carpet appearances.
http://www.goodwebsite.co.uk/

Dany Culaud

I also enjoyed meeting Dany Culaud, raw chef extraordinaire, who, at one point, walked by with the most delicious plate of food and said "Oh, I just whipped this up quickly downstairs," so I cannot wait to experience one of her cooking classes for myself. Culaud works with both large companies and average Joes and Josephines to teach live cuisine and health and organizes trips all year long. Check out her site:

http://www.danyculaud.fr/

Vert Spiruline

It’s easy being green when you can eat fresh spirulina from Vert Spiruline. Unfortunately, the fresh version doesn’t really keep, but Pierre-André Weité has thankfully packaged his Made-in-France spirulina and sells it at www.vert-spiruline.fr. While many spirulina products hail from China or other far-away locations, this version is made right in France at la Presqu’Ile de Giens. Vert Spiruline makes a classic variety and also a mint-flavored variety for extra zest.
Olivier Herbomel
An apple a day … has never looked so beautiful! Olivier Herbomel describes himself as a “fruit and vegetable sculptor,” a very unique profession. Herbomel put some of his recent designs on display at Paris Vegan Day and even did live sculpting in a watermelon (well, he wasn't actually IN a watermelon for the demo, but his designs were carved into the middle) to show his prowess. I’ve never seen anything quite like it – Herbomel’s attention to detail is incredible and the colors that emerge from fresh fruits and veggies are extraordinary. How ‘bout DEM apples?

http://sculpturedolivier.blogspot.com/

Livin’ on the Veg

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Leffler) — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 12:31:00 +0000

It’s the veg of the world and we know it, and I feel fine. Of course I do. I just had a delectable gourmet meal that was not only flavorful, it was also healthy and eaten in wonderful company in a relaxed, stress-free setting. What more could I ask for? Well, possibly to be able to cook this meal effortlessly all by myself and in such a beautiful apartment and kitchen, and maybe in the company of George Clooney and Ryan Gosling, but hey, I’m not too far off. The meal was a cooking class and I left with the recipes, I met interesting people that I will definitely stay in touch with and… well, I’m seeing “The Ides of March” this week with both Clooney and Gosling, does that count?

Located in Paris’ – très chic – 16th arrondissement, The Gentle Gourmet offers not only a hospitable B&B location for vegans, but also an international cooking school, cooking classes, convivial dinners and weekend brunch. Oh, and they’ve also singlehandedly founded Paris Vegan Day which now boasts over 5,000 visitors, but we’ll get to that later.
The Gentle Gourmet holds true to its moniker – its food and its hosts are all quite gentle and very gourmet.

My fellow Américaine, Deborah Brown Pivain opened The Gentle Gourmet B&B in 2009 and her ecologically-friendly, cruelty-free spot continues to attract vegans and carnivorous veggie-lovers alike. The lovely Deborah used to run a B&B complete with organic farm in Normandy, but gave up her seaside life to welcome word travelers to Paris. (So glad she did.) People with special food allergies who were afraid to travel before now have a haven in the City of Lights. GG offers gourmet daily breakfasts and dinners where both guests and Parisians or visitors can meet and mingle while feasting on organic, seasonal fare. Deborah now runs GG with her two children Caroline and Alexandre and a new partner, a UK-born Australian Paul Farnhill. This enthusiastically vegan yet non-judgemental Franco-American family will make you feel at home as soon as you open the door to their cozy home. The kitchen is my dream come true – a huge space outfitted with top equipment, all against the backdrop of the Eiffel Tower. Well, almost. There’s a huge painting of the Eiffel Tower in the center of the room.
While the GG team specialize in vegan interpretation of French cuisine from several different regions, during my visit, I was treated to some Vegan Fusion courtesy of another fellow American, Mark Reinfeld.

Now, as you may have noticed from le blog, I have become quite the harsh food critic now that I’ve been spoiled by the likes of Alain Ducasse, Christian Sinicropi and friends, so my palette has become, as the French say, blasée. With that in mind, I must say that Mark Reinfeld’s meal was, well … one of the best I’ve ever tasted. (“With no dairy products or meat? She’s CRAZY!” Yes – I can hear you thinking out loud, scary huh?) Yes.

Reinfeld’s fusion fare is refined and elegant, yet surprisingly easy to make and doesn’t involve esoteric ingredients like most “healthy” recipes I have found. He also adapts his recipes based on individual tastes and based on what is available. Can’t find macadamia nuts anywhere? (I certainly can’t – they have 800 different types of ham at every corner here, but no macadamia nuts. Seriously, Frenchies?) Not a problem – try cashews or almonds. Hate onions? Leave them out.

We started with a raw carrot soup that was a potpourri of colors, flavors and textures. The presentation was spectacular- it almost looked too good to eat until the spoon hit my lips and I tasted every ingredient, each bite a different mélange of the different aromas.

We followed with a cashew-crusted tofu with “golden gravy”, quinoa pilaf and a salad with walnut vinaigrette. The meal was hearty, though not heavy and the tofu was the best I’ve ever had. Soy to the world, Mark Reinfeld has come! (to be sung)

Dessert was a platter of rich “choco bliss treats,” molten chocolate mixed with coconut, nuts and spices and cooled in the refrigerator.
Not only were my taste buds tantalized, but I learned tricks of the trade for chopping, dicing, sautéing and flavor combinations.
Reinfeld is a traveling gourmet, so if you can, definitely check out one of his classes in a city near you or, better yet, his 10-day vegan fusion retreats. Too busy to travel? You can purchase Reinfeld’s full cooking class online for under $100 that includes a how-to to all things vegan from technique tips to raw food to soups and salads to main courses and desserts. It’s really an amazing deal. Reinfeld has taken highlights from his cookbooks (Vegan Fusion, The 30-minute Vegan, Taste of the East, The Idiot’s Guide to Eating Raw…and more to come), mixed them with video lessons and put everything into a large file that tells you how to do everything from chop a carrot to blow your friends away with the most gourmet carrot soup they’ve ever tasted.
The Gentle Gourmet is also a wonderful spot because it brings gentle and gourmet people together from all over the world. We met a lovely couple from England during our class and dinner, and there are always interesting people popping in from every continent.

This weekend, the Gentle Gourmet-organized Paris Vegan Day will fete its third year with two days of animal-friendly events. Guests chefs from across the globe will host free cooking demos all day on Saturday and Sunday, and visitors can participate in guest lectures on topics ranging from organic, vegan weddings to animals and politics, see a film screening or even a fashion show. Paris Vegan Day will play host to the first and unique Eco Vegan Fashion Show in Paris on Saturday night with NY choreographer James Koroni set to perform a modern dance before the show.

Veg-friendly sponsors will set up stands throughout the location at La Bellevilloise. Last year’s event attracted over 4,500 people and this year, there are even more sponsors and events. Run by a French non-profit, Paris Vegan Day focuses on “the promotion, development and democratization of the vegan lifestyle,” according to its organizers. Vegan meals will be available for lunch and dinner or brunch (but book in advance! resa@labellevilloise.com) in addition to snacks from sponsors scattered throughout the day. Paris Vegan Day isn’t only about the food. 100% cruelty-free, animal-friendly cosmetics, clothing, wine and spirits, green products, animal causes, environmental initiatives, ethical practices, sports, health and games will also be showcased. I’ll definitely be popping in so hope to see you all there!
PARIS VEGAN DAY, Oct. 1st and 2nd, 2011 Hours: 10:00am - 7:00pm Location: La Bellevilloise 19/21 rue Boyer 75020 PARIS Access: Subway: Ménilmontant (line 2) / Gambetta (line 3)
For more info, contact Caroline Madame Pivain: direction@parisveganday.fr / 06.99.42.90.77

You say tomato, I say...Premiere Pression Provence!

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Leffler) — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 20:22:00 +0000

Ah, Provence. The bucolic scenery, the Impressionist landscapes, the Mediterranean beauty, the delectable olive oil, the – oh, let’s just stop there. It’s all about the olive oil isn’t it?
Premiere Pression Provence – let’s call it PPP for short– takes the best products from Provence and brings them to Paris, notably olive oils. The Marais location calls le Marche des Enfants Rouge home and looks out onto the vibrant crowds in the market on one end and onto the rue Charlot on the other. It’s the same wonderful products specific to the Provence region, only instead of a Mediterranean sea view, you can watch French hipsters eat pizza and falafel.
PPP hosts olive oil tastings and always has samples on display for you to test out your favorites. Yes, an olive oil tasting indeed. It’s sort of like a wine tasting, only a bit more slippery (and it won’t give you a hangover in the morning).
PPP not only sells olive oil, but you can see a picture of the French farmer who made it and learn about how it’s produced. Even better, you can MEET said olive oil-maker during one of PPP’s aperitifs as they often visit.
Feeling olive oiled out? It doesn’t end there.
PPP’s sun-dried tomatoes – or rather, HALF sun-dried tomatoes, which may seem like a small detail, but in fact changes everything – are the best in the universe (yes, the universe). I’m also currently addicted to their – organic! – apple cider vinegar and whole grain mustard plus juicy olives of all colors and flavors. Whether organic or not, all of PPP’s products are fresh from their savvy producers and farmers in the South and hand-picked by a team of wise professionals.
PPP isn’t just a shop. Not only is it worth a visit to chat with the amicable and knowledegable Jenna Thornton, but Thornton organizes events often where you can taste test olive oils while you snack on her homemade creations like bruschetta or fig and goat cheese salad, not to mention meet other Provençal enthusiasts.

Make sure not to miss the Apéro Cru on Monday, Sept. 12th where raw food will be in the spotlight. PPP will showcase its finest raw products with a selection of rawlicious fare and give recipe ideas. Whether you’re a crudivore, rawivore or wondering whatsthatfor, definitely go check out the raw food extravaganza with a Mediterranean touch. Cost is 10 euros. Reservations required at discoveroliveoil@gmail.com or 01 57 40 69 58. Once you discover PPP, you won’t want to olive without it!

Yo, Omgirl ! Downward Digitty Dog!

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Leffler) — Sat, 27 Aug 2011 13:22:00 +0000

I’m an Omgirl from New Jersey, yo! Yes, I do indeed realize I’m from the suburbs and I go to yoga on a regular basis. OK fine, I’ll take the “yo” out, that may have been too much, but I am now officially a lifelong Omgirl, aka a fan of the très chic yoga-inspired clothing line. I immediately fell in love with Omgirl when I heard the name – I always love a good pun as you may have noticed. I know Omgirl clothes are supposed to be for yoga, but I’ve actually been wearing them all day long. Omgirl describes itself as “unique blend of urban chic and West Coast sensibility.” Just like me! Yes, again, I know I’m from New Jersey, but I think that in a past life I was a Californian yogini meditating all day and eating hemp seeds (see previous post). It makes sense that clothing that is perfect for yoga would also be perfect for everyday. Both need to be comfortable and easy to move in, but also look good. Enter, Omgirl! All of their tops are long so they won’t move up your back when you’re doing your 10th downward dog in that vinyasa flow sequence and formfitting so they stay pinned to your body even when your body is flying off the mat. The clothes are great to wear at home or at om (sorry, I can’t resist). Check out Omgirl’s site at http://www.omgirl.com/ or, if you’re in Paris, make sure to stop into Yoga Concept.

Yoga Concept is a brand new shop in NoMa (“North Marais” and now my official ‘hood) that has opened literally across the street from Chez Lafleur. I noticed it only recently – it was like a beacon of light shining down upon the rue de Turenne shedding the divine light from above into the divine light in me, Namaste. (Actually, I think it’s more like a daily friendly reminder to get my butt out of bed and head over to yoga class, but I’ll leave you with the more spiritual image – it’s much more beautiful than me in pretty much any yoga position.)
The everything-yoga concept store brings modern urban yoga to the streets of Paris (and did I mention in THE BEST neighborhood? But I’m not biased.) Pop in for a chat with the adorable American in Paris (we’re ubiquitous in these parts, what can I say?) Pamela Levy who has brought yoga-inspired chic from across the Atlantic. Levy makes sure to select only the brands she loves most based on both quality and company ethics.
http://www.yogaconcept.com/

Once you’ve got your yoga mat and attire walk, step or jump over to l’Atelier Marais, a fab yoga studio just around the corner on the rue Charlot. From relaxing yet surprisingly energizing Hatha classes with Ingy to more physical Vinyasa yoga with an Eastern vibe with Judith, l’Atelier boasts a variety of classes at all times of day and night with an eclectic mix of knowledgeable instructors.

If you’re across the Atlantic and in New Jersey, head to Yoga Montclair, an Anusara studio run by the lovely Omni Kitts Ferrara and featuring some great teachers too, all with their own unique teaching styles from fashionista-turned-yogini Julissa to the motivating and philosophically physical (I just invented that description, but I find it incredibly fitting for a yoga instructor) Hillary to the vivacious yet gentle Julie. Everyone, from the staff to the yoginis (and select yogis, though it’s true the men are few and far between) is very open and friendly and the studio will be moving and expanding from Upper Montclair to a new location at the end of September. Check out their site for more info: http://www.yogamontclair.com/

By the way, a “yogini” refers to any girl who practices yoga. I love it. It sounds like some sort of Indian pasta dish. “I’ll have the yogini, please.” Perhaps served with a pigeon pose? Anyway, for all of you yoginis out there wherever you are, Omgirl garb is divine. Feel free to Namaste in the clothes all day and night long. It may not bring your immediate spiritual lightness of being, but it will keep your movements lights for sure and keep you looking outside like the goddesses you are inside. Come on now, inhale, all of you with me now…Ooooooooooooooooom(girl). NAMASTE. Perhaps my Tibetan monk friends will soon be wearing Omgirl’s clothing too? (See video below for some anytime zen.)
VIDEO

NRJ PARIS - INSIDERS

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Leffler) — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 21:37:00 +0000

Voilà a clip from a TV show the NRJ channel did about moi - très fun!

NRJ PARIS INSIDERS REBECCA LEFFLER by YllaW_Prod

The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Raw Food Detox

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Leffler) — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 21:36:00 +0000

I’d like to preface this post by saying that I am not a complete idiot. I am also not going on a raw food detox anytime soon. That said, I’d like to tell you about a new book called The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Raw Food Detox by Adam Graham.

The book is meant for anyone – idiots or geniuses, raw foodists or cheeseburger mongers alike – looking to eat better, feel better and look better. I think everyone can relate to that, oui ?

I’m sure you’ve been hearing about and reading about health foods everywhere you turn. After just a few weeks in the US for the summer, I was saturated with “eat this, not that!” advice in the newspaper, magazines and on TV. If I actually listened to every one of them, I’d be eating… well, nothing, since even the health experts seem to contradict themselves most of the time. While a raw food diet is actually less of a diet and more of a lifestyle choice and it’s certainly not for everyone, gradually integrating more and more raw foods into one’s diet is absolutely a healthy choice for everyone. In his book, Graham makes raw food seem less a chore and more a creative and delicious way to get your greens. The book is divided into five parts that give you the basics of going raw, a step-by-step guide to getting started, several recipes, how raw food can be medicinal and nutritious then how to maintain the detox at home on your own. Graham goes into the scientific explanations of why raw is better, but, unlike many raw guides, doesn’t judge his readers. If you’re licking your lips from your cheeseburger and fries while perusing the pages, Graham would be happy you’re even listening instead of lecturing you on why the dead cow in your stomach is the end of the world. Plus, the recipes don’t use very esoteric, hard-to-find ingredients or require hard labor and specialized technology. So many raw recipes list hundreds of ingredients and require soaking, sprouting, dehydrating and crazy dancing (not really, but my poor attempts at them have resulted in such). Graham’s recipes are all simple, yet flavorful and offer alternatives if you don’t happen to have certain ingredients on hand, which I always like in a cookbook. Or, if you do decide to go all raw, Graham makes sure to include a chapter on “Raw food detox and social challenges” and how to remain raw despite pressures from society, family and friends. Graham also outlines a sample 15-day plan to have an idea of how to incorporate the recipes into a daily meal plan and make sure you’re getting enough calories throughout the day, not often easy with raw foods. Plus, the recipe names are all very creative and witty such as his “Portobello Bella Bella,” “G-Man’s Coconut Soup,” “Monkey King” smoothie, “Virgin Mary” juice or “Broccoli Rawdorf Salad.” This is more than just a cookbook and it’s a timeless book than can be consulted anytime – whether for a quick raw recipe idea or daily health tips.
If the words kombucha, lactobacillus acidophilus, ayurveda, centrifuge juicers, biogenics, catabolism, biophotons or exitotoxins scare you, then this book is for you. And if they don’t, then the book is also a great way to learn more. It’s a completely non-idiotic Idiot’s Guide to Raw Food Detox… or just eating very delicious food that just happens to be good for you. Bon appétit !

Top 10 Things I Love About … Canyon Ranch

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Leffler) — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 21:12:00 +0000

Dear reality,
You suck. I’m moving to Canyon Ranch forever.
Love,
Rebecca

I would have loved to have written this blog FROM Canyon Ranch, but, Mesdames et Messieurs, there was no time. The Canyon Ranch day is so action-packed, that there was barely enough time to stop and eat or smell the roses (literally, they have flowers all over the property). In the “action” category, however, I do include a visit to the steam room, massage and restorative yoga class… yes, life is rough at Canyon Ranch. Life at Canyon Ranch is not, in fact, life. It is instead a wonderful escape from life. Canyon Ranch boasts locations across America – in Tucson and in Miami, but I opted for the East Coast version in Lenox, Massachusetts. The self-described “healthy escape in the Berkshires” is an all-inclusive spa in picturesque New England complete with an endless list of indoor and outdoor activities, cultural breaks and health programs. Unlike many spas in the US, Canyon Ranch mixes Eastern and Western medicines and integrates untraditional health values from India, China and across the globe. I must admit that, before I arrived, I expected Canyon Ranch to be a large spa complete with women walking around in robes with green face masks and people lounging around in arm chairs on grassy knolls. In fact, Canyon Ranch in Lenox is anything but that (though I admit to enjoying a brisk walk along the grass in my robe after a facial, please don’t judge.) I visited the location with my parents and, though we are all different ages with different health concerns and likes and dislikes, we all found ways to keep busy there, while finding time to enjoy each other’s company too. I have decided that I am retiring and moving to Canyon Ranch, so au revoir to Lafleurdeparis blog. Just kidding, I may need to invent a billion-dollar app for the iphone before I can do that so, until then, I’ll share with you my favorite parts of this petit escape in the Berkshires.

1 The Tata Harper facial

My skin just called to say she’s (yes, my skin is sensitive and delicate – it’s clearly female) quite happy with Canyon Ranch as well. I enjoyed an all-new treatment at “The Ranch” (that’s insider slang for Canyon Ranch Resort Lenox, by the way as I noticed that all of the staff referred to it that way) – the Tata Harper facial. Tata Harper is an all-natural cosmetics line. It’s like throwing a salad into your face. A delicious and wonderful-smelling salad that is. My skin feels like a baby’s butt. An ORGANIC baby’s butt at that. Tata’s (yes, Tata Harper is in fact a real person, farmer and chemist) non-toxic skincare line was researched and grown on her 1,200-acre farm in Vermont where she uses 100% natural ingredients like Narcissus bulbs, Witch Hazel, Gotu Kola and Neroli. What? You haven’t heard of those ingredients? Don’t worry, neither have I, but I can confirm that we should all remember their names because they work wonders on the skin. Plus, there’s a cheat sheet for all of the ingredients and their healing properties on Tata Harper’s website tataharperskincare.com. My skin was so smooth when I left the facial that when I put my head onto my pillow, I slipped and fell out of bed. (Not really, but I hope that image made a few of you laugh. It worked for me.) The Tata Harper facial at Canyon Ranch uses several products from the body and facial line and also includes paraffin wax on the hands and a massage of the head, neck, shoulders and arms. I was impressed by my esthetician’s vast knowledge of all things related to my epidermis and felt like I was in good hands (good thing because my hands were coated in wax and surrounded by thick plastic gloves – I looked like cookie monster at a wax museum.) What’s great is that all of the products aren’t just for fancy facials – they were designed for everyday use by everyday women. Well, wealthier everyday women because the products aren’t cheap, but they are pretty much the same price of similar high-end cosmetic products and, considering they are also completely organic and natural, makes them an even better deal. I particularly liked the rebuilding moisturizer, the resurfacing mask and the hydrating floral essence which is like a breath of fresh air sprayed to the face any time of day and available in a small enough container to keep in your purse anytime. TH also makes a great body lotion and oil plus roll-on essential oils for stress, irritability and bedtime aid which, if we all had help with our stress, irritability and sleep, we’d be absolutely gorgeous, right? Great idea, Tata. So “Tata” for now, I am applying some roll-on bedtime treatment oils and a resurfacing mask before I head to sleep to dream about another Canyon Ranch Tata Harper facial.

2 The staff
The Canyon Ranch staff are friendly without being didactic or overbearing.
From ayurveda, yoga or yamuna foot fitness with Mark to a work-out or yoga with Faith or Lori to a talk from the wise Dr Cindy Geyer all the way up to CR Lenox’ top dog, the smiley and accessible Reggie Cooper, the staff at CR really complete the experience. No one hovers over you, but they are always attentive. While Canyon Ranch may be a hot destination spot for real celebrities, everyone is made to feel like a celebrity when they go there. Everyone is a VIP (Very Important Paying customer, that is). Want a private yoga session tailored to your Ayurvedic dosha (if you don’t know what that is, you obviously need a trip to Canyon Ranch) or some herbs for your Chinese ying or yang? Your wish is their command.

3 Sondra Rose

It’s a bird, it’s a plane, it’s… I swear, Sondra Rose is, in fact Superwoman disguised as a 74 year-old philanthropist from Long Island. Rose was just named Woman of the Year by the Long Island Leukemia and Lymphoma Society earlier this year and continues to fight for a cause very close to her heart. She started this fundraising program when her close friend's first grandchild was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at just 11 months old. She raised $200,000 for DRIF and JDRF between 2000 and 2008. Rose’s grandson was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in 2008 and Rose hasn’t stopped campaigning for funding to research the disease. Rose has raised more than $180,000 for LLS and also raises money for the Children's Cancer Fund and Diabetes Research Institute Foundation. Meanwhile, Rose has been on the move. She’s walked 10 half-marathons, will enter in the New York Marathon this year, has completed a 30-mile bike ride and hiked in the Smoky Mountains and the Grand Canyon. Every time I ran into Rose at Canyon Ranch, she was finishing one activity and heading to another, always stopping of course for a friendly conversation with everyone she met along the way. The modest Rose expects nothing in return for her efforts, only to see her grandson’s smiling face and help other children with similar ailments. Rose is also a role model for anyone who wants to kick their health into high gear even when they think it’s too late in the game. “You’re never too old to change your life,” Rose says. Rose is also known as the “Spa Maven” and organizes trips to Canyon Ranch (and also Miraval and Mii amo spas in Arizona) at reduced rates, as long as you donate to her charity. Everyone wins, most importantly, the children who will benefit from your donations. If you’re interested, check out the Spa Maven site: http://spamaventrips.com/

4 Yoga for Athletes
Yes, I, Rebecca Leffler, completed a class (actually two) with the title “for athletes.” (Stop laughing, I can hear you.) Canyon Ranch’s “yoga for athletes” is neither for yogis nor for athletes, and, at the same time, designed for both groups. Huh? Did I do too many downward dogs and headstands you may be wondering? This class challenges both yogis and athletes alike and is a great way to move those most hard-to-stretch muscles.

5 Unlimited food
Yes, I’m American – I get excited about the idea of all-you-can-eat dining. It’s in my genes. At Canyon Ranch, all of the meals are included and, while there is a daily and nightly salad bar buffet-style, feel free to order anything you’d like off of the sit-down menu. Don’t like the night’s dinner options? Make up your own. Or if you DO like the night’s dinner options, feel free to order 17 portions. (You’ll even be able to add up the calories – the calorie count is listed on the menu for each item.) No judgement. The portion sizes are so small that you may indeed need 17 portions to satiate your appetite after 10 hours of aerobics, paddleboarding, hiking and pilates, but it’s fun to have the freedom to try several things at once.

6 The Inhalation room
Don’t worry, everything you inhale in this room is indeed legal, though it does leave you feeling quite euphoric and, if you stay too long, a bit lightheaded and dizzy. The inhalation room is like a steam room, only better and features eucalyptus spray that is great for the sinuses. I wanted to stay forever.

7 Trying things I’ve never done before
“It’s not like you go there and languish. There are just numerous options every day. And then when you want to relax you have the spa. It’s all just there for you basically.” – Dad Leffler
I went for a 7-mile bike ride along the country roads and into the quaint town of Lenox, mastered Tai Chi, did a pilates workout and learned about longevity and digestive health, all before lunch. The possibilities really are endless.

8 The Train concert at Tanglewood
Marry Me, Train! Sorry, I meant, Marry Me BY Train – it’s a great song. Though I confess that after seeing their concert at Tanglewood, I would say “I Do” to this rock band trio. Patrick Monahan has such an incredible energy and he and the group livened up the stage and the large audience from start to finish, even coming back at the end for an encore. The band played all of their familiar favorites like “Hey, Soul Sister,” “Save Me, San Francisco” and “Marry Me,” but also added in some old classics from Blondie and Rihanna. Tanglewood is an absolutely beautiful setting and the night of the concert was sunny and beautiful. Large crowds gathered outside on the vast lawn – people of all ages from elderly couples to small children running around. Many people brought picnic dinners and sat in lounge chairs drinking wine. Others opted for seats inside of the main concert tent near the stage. The New England outdoor setting combined with the addictive music made for a high-energy and enjoyable evening. The best part? Canyon Ranch provides transportation to and from the Tanglewood lawn complete with lounge chairs, blankets, bug spray and, if you want, a picnic dinner. While I was sad for the show to end, Train reminded us that “This Aint Goodbye.” I hope to see them again soon!

9 Tai Chi / meditation
Din boo. Sui boo. Ma boo. Gun boo. Huh? Boo who?
I may not yet be a Master of the ancient Chinese martial art of Tai Chi, but I’m hooked. I tested out the “outdoor morning tai chi” class at Canyon Ranch and it was such a perfect way to start the day. The added bonus was the lovely morning summer weather, but the de-stress and strength training factors can be accessed at any time in any season. While the poses sound like a jungle scene – “pouncing tiger” or “high horse” or “crane” – they are extremely therapeutic and relaxing, while also muscle-building. Just call me Master Lafleur.

10 Trail bars
Almond butter and brown rice syrup hold puffed rice and millet together with quinoa flakes, dried cherries, pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds for an energizing, protein-packed snack known as the Canyon Ranch Trail Bar. Even I may be persuaded to go hiking if I can pack these addictive trail bars. Did I mention that 7-mile bike ride? I think I’m ready for the Tour de France. Pass the trail bars!

I can't stop Bragging !

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Leffler) — Sat, 20 Aug 2011 23:20:00 +0000

Now I don’t mean to Bragg, but… well, I’ve been Bragging quite a bit this summer. Don’t worry, my head hasn’t exploded. I’m talking about Bragg live food products from the Bragg family. The company will soon be celebrating its 100th anniversary and it’s no wonder they’ve been around for so long since the products leave much to Bragg about (it just doesn’t get old, does it ?)
I’ll admit that I was skeptical at first – their olive oil isn’t in a fancy container like most of the "top" olive oils I find in Paris and elsewhere and their packaging looks like it’s out of a 1940s magazine ad (but a very cool, vintage 1940s magazine ad at that). And then, I tasted the products. Oh là là! Not only are all of their products extremely healthy, but they actually TASTE great.
Their extra virgin olive oil has found its way into pretty much every meal I’ve made this summer and their nutritional yeast is packed with cheesy flavor and nutritional benefits to boot. The olive oil and apple cider vinegars make for an easy vinaigrette on their own, or try Bragg's own salad dressing creations with creative combos like ginger and sesame, Hawaiian or "Braggberry."
The liquid aminos give traditional soy sauce a run for its money and are unique on the health market. The liquid aminos are at every Canyon Ranch spa on the salad bar and I’ve noticed have become an indispensable part of healthy recipes for bloggers and cookbook authors all over North America.
The company was founded by Paul Bragg, a pioneer in health food in America, and today Bragg's company is run by his daughter Patricia. The Bragg family motto is “You are what you eat, drink, breathe, think, say and do.” (Not to be confused with the Leffler family motto of: “Eat, drink, breathe, think, say and do… a lot.”)
Patricia Bragg is a nutritionist and author known for her how-to books helping people to adopt her “Bragg Healthy Lifestyle” and philosophy. She’s worked with some top talents like Clint Eastwood, The Beach Boys, Jack Lalanne, Metropolitan Opera stars and even Olympic athletes. (But who’s Bragging?) I’m such a fan! (Of the Bragg product line, that is, though I’ll admit to the occasional rendition of “Surfin’ USA” in the shower.) Bragg makes a great apple cider vinegar and even some creative apple cider vinegar-based beverages for your own at-home drinkable detox. And table salt was SO last season – Bragg’s organic sprinkle seasoning is the new way to dress (your salads and meals, that is, not yourself – I don’t recommend dousing yourself in a garlic, ginger, onion and other herb mixture, you may not be very popular). The salt-free flavorful herb combo adds sodium-free savor to any dish.
Bragg also blogs so after you read your FAVORITE blog (cough cough), make sure to click on theirs: http://bragg.com/blog/index.php

Totally Nuts!

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Leffler) — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 21:58:00 +0000

Whenever anyone asks me what I miss most about America, my first response is always “peanut butter.” Sorry, Mom and Dad, but you’re just not as creamy and American. Plus, you come to visit me at least once a year, while peanut butter has been doing a terrible job of visiting France. Like an obnoxious American tourist, it stands out in a crowd and the French find it abhorrent. After living in la France for seven years, peanut butter has become my Proust Madeleine, if you will. One bite and my childhoods eating fluffernutter sandwiches at summer camp (my French friends nearly faint when I tell them what’s actually in one of those) or peanut butter and jelly at school all flash before my eyes.

As I get older (and yes, I do indeed have a rapidly approaching birthday, please don’t remind me), like any lifelong love, my affections for peanut butter have changed. Now, like an adultering Frenchman, I have been forced to share my love for peanut butter with several other forms of nut butters. Almond butter is perhaps the most ubiquitous of nut butters, following its dear cousin peanut, of course, and my go-to nut butter. While several of the French brands aren’t bad – Jean Hervé is my current French fave – they just don’t compare to the US. Enter, Artisana. Artisana makes a wide variety of nut butters and, the best part? They’re all raw. This means, that they’re not only healthier, but also keep all of the original almond’s flavors intact, which makes for a delectable treat. I spread it on a banana and sprinkle with hemp seeds (seriously, get me into a 12-step hemp program fast) or add it to smoothies or oatmeal. And, as if the Artisanal founders thought only of me when creating their product line
(OK, they may also have been thinking of the thousands of schoolchildren and busy adults across the country who may also be saved from such an ingenious creation), Artisana sells their nut butters in individual serving packets, perfect for those of us on the go. (Can you think of anything more chic than squeezing almond butter onto a cracker during a fancy movie premiere? Just watch me.) Their tahini is the best I’ve ever had and makes for an incredible addition to salad dressing, baked goods or sauces, or just spread on toasted bread with some honey – yum. Their single serving packets span pretty much every nut you can think of, your crazy Aunt not included: think pecan, walnut, coconut, cashew, almond, cacao, macadamia and cashini (just what it sounds like, the delicious offspring of cashews and tahini). They are the perfect snack for any time of day on any kind of bed (fruit, rice cake, fresh French bread from the boulangerie if you’re as lucky as me to live down the street from one or a bagel if you’re even luckier than me and live in close proximity to a NY bagel shop) or just squeeze directly from packet to mouth, why not ? It’s healthy, I promise.
If you dare, and have the time, I do suggest my current homemade favorite, a roasted hazelnut butter from my favorite food blog, My New Roots. Check it out (and make sure to read the intro – after you make it, you’ll want to take Sarah and me out on a date, or just send me some homemade hazelnut butter, that works too):
http://mynewroots.blogspot.com/2009/03/nut-butter-me-up.html
And if you are a French customs official reading this blog, then I’d just like to officially state on record that there are NOT any jars or packets of nut butter in my suitcase for my NY-Paris flight.

Hemp me, I'm addicted!

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Leffler) — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 21:41:00 +0000

My name is Rebecca Leffler and I’m a hempaholic.
It’s true. I confess. It’s only been a few weeks now, but I can’t get enough cannabis.
At 4:20 pm every day, I … no just kidding of course, I munch on hemp all day long, there’s really no set time.
While hemp seeds may be très hard to find in France, they are ubiquitous in these parts (and by “these parts” I of course mean America, not necessarily specific to New Jersey, unless of course the “Garden State” moniker refers to mass cannabis farming?)
I love sprinkling hemp seeds on just about anything to add crunch, flavor, protein and nutrients and I am a fan of hemp protein powder in my smoothies for some added bulk. So, in sum, you can sprinkle hemp, smoothie hemp…and smoke hemp I imagine, but I don’t recommend in seed or protein powder form, they’re too delicious to waste.
I’m currently enjoying Manitoba Harvest’s hemp seeds on just about anything. Manitoba Harvest’s seeds are Canadian, so it’s only natural that I’d like them. Like most other Canadians, Manitoba’s hemp seeds are subtle yet robust, healthy and make me smile. Most American states can’t legally grow hemp and its still not legal on a federal level, so we have to rely on our Canadian friends to supply us with our stash. Crazy, eh? Get some Canuck cannabis asap – it’s smokin’ good. Hemp seeds are known as hemp hearts in Canada and rightfully so – my heart beats for those white and green little sprinklings of love. Then there’s “Hemp Bliss” hemp milk, also a just moniker. I have yet to try the hemp oil and hemp butter but, well, I don’t want to overdose on my favorite drug-free drug of choice. Omega-oodness gracious, this stuff rocks. And, fact of the day: The Declaration of Independence draft was written on paper made out of hemp. Thomas Jefferson himself grew hemp. We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all hemp is created equal… Actually, not true. Make sure you get your hemp from a reliable source, preferably organic. Check out: http://www.manitobaharvest.com/
Unfortunately, I still can’t find hemp seeds in Paris – the French government says adultery is OK, but healthy hemp seeds a menace to society – I may have to go on strike. (Or feel free to mail me a few bags, shhh I won’t tell Sarkozy.)

Oui, Chef! 10 Chefs I love in France this week

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Leffler) — Wed, 20 Jul 2011 09:30:00 +0000

1) Alain Ducasse

Who knew Alain Ducasse and I had so much in common? Two of his favorite Paris restaurants in his new book are Pousse-Pousse and Voy Alimento – so are mine (see below). He went to the Cannes Film Festival to cook for the opening night ceremony. I ate what he cooked for the opening night ceremony. He just created the dinner for Prince Albert of Monaco’s royal wedding. I went to summer camp across the lake from Prince Albert of Monaco (though my invite to the wedding got lost in the mail apparently). He loves fresh, local produce. So do I. He describes himself as “impatient and loyal.” I’m as loyal – and impatient! – as they come. Vegetables star on his plates and he doesn’t use too much heavy cream or butter – my kind of cooking. His signature dish is the cookpot. I like to cook things in pots. He spends his time between Paris, New York and Monte-Carlo. I’m a New Yorker living in Paris who attends events in Monte-Carlo 1-2 times a year. His favorite color is green. (Actually, not sure about that last one, but I’m on a roll here, why stop now?) Alain Ducasse and I are culinary soul mates. It’s official. I’m madly in love with hi…s cooking.
After meeting the amiable Alain in Cannes this year, I was lucky enough to have dinner at La Cour Jardin, the Ducasse-run restaurant at chic Parisian hotel the Plaza Athenée with my family. It’s my new favorite restaurant in Paris, and perhaps the world.

First of all, the background scenery is gorgeous. We sat in the Plaza’s beautiful courtyard under the stars on a nice summer evening. The service is impeccable. While La Cour Jardin may indeed be the Plaza’s more “casual bistro,” the service is worthy of a 3-starred Michelin restaurant. The wait staff were warm, welcoming and informative without being too obsequious. And then there’s the food. I believe that la Cour Jardin must be the fourth or fifth definition of the expression “oh là là” in the Larousse dictionary. We started with some bubblingly (yes, that’s now a word – how else can you describe delicious champagne?) luscious champagne, and I also had a freshly made beet, carrot and ginger juice with vegetables straight from Ducasse’s garden of local veggies. Then, the wine – a perfectly – red … I don't remember, it's all a beautiful blur, but it was quite lovely and expensive.
We nibbled on foccacia dipped in olive oil, radishes with butter and a small summer soup hors d’oeuvre.
Then, the bread arrived – a housemade white bread with an assortment of seeds, crispy on the outside, airy on the inside – all that a good bread should be.
As if La Cour Jardin weren’t great enough, this summer, Ducasse is sharing the spotlight with Lawrence Aboucaya, owner of Parisian café and boutique Pousse-Pousse. Aboucaya has designed a healthy, seasonal menu for la Cour Jardin this summer based on her unique and nutritious vision of cuisine. I started with Aboucaya’s “creamy” (though Aboucaya would never dare to add real cream to her vegan dishes, bien sûr) eggplant soup which arrived with an eggplant purée topped with flowers before our waitress came around to pour the creamy eggplant and almond soup into the bowl. Other appetizers enjoyed by the Lefflers included a beautifully presented lobster, a beef carpaccio and gorgeous salad of raw vegetables and edible flowers and an asparagus and morel risotto. I followed with some of the best St Pierre fish I have ever tasted, served atop a bed of “quinori” (quinoa, rice and chickpea combo) with a green sauce and seasonal vegetables. A seabass and caponata, lamb and beef also tantalized the tastebuds at the table. I ended with Aboucaya’s mélange of strawberry pistachio ice cream and raspberry pepper sorbet, served with sweet raspberry flax crackers. A cherry almond tart, strawberry and pistachio mix and a chocolate mousse were also delectable. We finished off the meal with some fresh verveine tea and aloe vera cubes – the perfect cool, refreshing end to help us digest the filling yet memorable meal we’d just devoured. It just doesn’t get any better than this.

2) Alain Llorca

Speaking of Alains who are great in the kitchen, let’s talk about Alain Llorca. Llorca used to be the chef at the Michelin-starred Moulin des Mougins. He gave up his Michelin stars and fancy schmancy surroundings to open a small hotel and restaurant in the heart of Saint Paul de Vence. I am personally very happy that he did so. The laid-back Llorca stands in his open kitchen at the center of the restaurant to greet his guests as they arrive. We sat outside with one of the loveliest views of the breathtakingly beautiful Saint Paul de Vence countryside. Llorca’s cuisine is rustic and flavorful, focusing on the freshest seasonal, local ingredients served simply yet elegantly. After nibbling on some radishes dipped in butter (what’s with the French and radishes with butter this time of year?) I had a beautiful salad starring fresh cantaloupe with supporting actor nods to slices of parmesan cheese, a large asparagus with mustard sauce, marinated eggplant, tomatoes, artichokes, blanched almonds, arugula, olive oil and balsamic vinaigrette and a sundried tomato sorbet that stole the spotlight. I followed with a seabass that just melted in my mouth, served with roasted fennel, incredibly flavorful olives from the region, green tomatoes and an olive-oil and green tomato-based sauce. My sister was in heaven eating her white truffle risotto and my parents enjoyed a salmon with mushrooms and potatoes and a lamb with provençal vegetables – “Like Provence on a plate!” –Mom Leffler. While Rod Stewart and other friends of Llorca from his former days at the Moulin des Mougins are frequent guests, we had our own almost-private lunch atop the hill and it was extraordinary.

3) Alain the crêpe man

Wait, one more Alain to add to the mix! This one has no Michelin stars, but instead the best crepes and sandwiches in Paris. You can find him at a stand in the Marché des Enfants Rouge. If you’re not familiar, with the Marché des Enfants Rouge, it’s in NoMa. If you’re not familiar with NoMa, check out NY Magazine stealing my moniker here:
http://nymag.com/travel/2011/spring/paris-neighborhoods-2011-4/
Alain the crêpe and sandwich man is a friendly, vivacious perfectionist who spends time not only choosing his mostly organic ingredients, but mixing them together with the ideal balance to please his customers. Try the “cornet végétarien,” my personal favorite – a large crêpe filled with greens, carrots, fennel, goat cheese, honey, herbs, olive oil. Carnivores will enjoy the fresh ham, cheese and onion version or one of Alain’s stuffed sandwiches. It’s worth the trip for the flavorful – and cheap! – crepes, but even more to get a chance to see Alain in action.

4) Christian Sinicropi / La Palme d’Or

Ratatouille would be SO jealous. The Lefflers had the opportunity to dine at the chef’s table in the kitchen of Christian Sinicropi’s La Palme d’Or at the Hotel Martinez in Cannes. I’ve written about Sinicropi before – he is an artist, in and out of the kitchen. Sinicropi and his wife designed all of the sculptures and the dishes used in the restaurant. Before the meal even began, our taste buds and our eyes were teased. Unfortunately, Sinicropi himself had an emergency and had to leave, but his sous-chef and team fed us well in his absence. A ceramic carrousel arrived complete with amuse-bouches including salmon lollipops, mini truffle and goat cheese sandwiches. Then, our bouches were even more amused by a perfectly lightly fried zucchini flower “beignet” (a fancy word for a donut, but this one certainly put Dunkin Donuts to shame). Then, the bread basket arrived. It was tough to choose between the parmesan brioiche, the orange flower bread in the shape of an open book, the squid ink bread or the sesame loaf, so we simply tried them all. Then came the appetizer, veal ravioli with roasted peppers – the photo describes it better than I can, and, for moi, a langoustine with beet sorbet and a parmesan crumble and squares of beet gaspacho, plus a truffle sauce. The langoustine melted in my mouth and the beet variations were like summer exploding against my tongue. Next, a zucchini flower stuffed with feta and ratatouille stood tall in a sea of grilled mackerel, sea bass, baby octopus and red mullet. The other Lefflers enjoyed braised veal that they claim they didn’t even need a knife to cut it was so moist and delicious while I enjoyed a plate so beautiful I almost didn’t want to eat it, until I did and then couldn’t put my knife, fork and spoon down (yes, I indeed needed all of those utensils for the feast before me) – a creamy pea velouté, eggplant caviar wrapped in marinated eggplant and blanched almonds, carrot and zucchini millefeuilles and an egg “mimosa” which saw molecular gastronomy meet modern Mediterranean cuisine – a tiny, perfectly rounded stack of egg yolks and whites with gel. The other Lefflers finished with Sinicropi’s signature golden chocolate cake and I had a vacherin – vanilla ice cream, pistachio ice cream and cherry ice cream served atop a sugared glazed pastry crust with a fruit soup on the side and fresh berries. We sampled the mini dessert platter – a delicious passion fruit cream puff, homemade marshmallows and an incredible white chocolate lollipop, before enjoying a long walk along the Croisette. Sinicropi’s cuisine is certainly original – there’s no one like him in the world and what’s amazing is that Sinicropi doesn’t sacrifice taste for presentation, they are both equally delectable. If you’re in town, make sure to pick up a copy of his lovely book for your coffee table – “Small Delights, Great Movies” where the cinephile chef has created a recipe based on all of his favorite movies for a collector’s book he made for the 60th anniversary of the Cannes Film Festival a few years ago. Did I like it? “OUI CHEF!”

5) Gregory Marchand

Like a fine French … uh, chef… Gregory Marchand gets better with age. Every time I go back to Frenchie, I say “prepare yourselves, tastebuds, it can’t possibly be as good as last time.” And then, it’s better. Despite his colossal global success, Marchand remains humble and Frenchie still feels like a corner, neighborhood bistro. Marchand somehow manages to please all palates with his spontaneous, seasonal cuisine. We started with smoked trout – that tasted neither smoky nor trouty – served with a cauliflower purée and shaved cauliflower, then continued with a seabass served in a tomato gazpacho with toasted croutons and chopped veggies. Mom had the cheesecake and I snuck in a panna cotta from Frenchie’s new wine bar across the street.

Wait a minute, you ask, new wine bar across the street?
Oui, mes amis. Instead of waiting three months for a table at Frenchie (though I do recommend waiting three YEARS – it’s worth it); wait three minutes or less for a spot atop a stool at Frenchie’s new wine bar. Located just across the street, the tiny spot features a fab wine list, plus little nibble straight from Marchand’s kitchen including gourmet hams, cheeses and let’s not forget the greatest panna cotta ever.

6) Yariv Berrebi / le KGB

Le KGB has been my neighborhood bistro since it opened a few years ago. While it’s no longer in my neighborhood nor is it a bistro, I still love it. For those of you a bit confused and wondering why I am talking about the soviet union’s national security agency when I should be focusing on restaurants, le KGB stands for le Kitchen Galerie Bis – it’s the sister restaurant of William Ledeuil’s Michelin-starred Ze Kitchen Galerie. The service is impeccable, the staff friendly and the cuisine creative and delicious. Ledeuil has handed over the reigns of KGB to young chef Yariv Berrebi who makes Ledeuil’s signature Franco-Asian flavor combos come alive on the plate. Start with les “zors d’oeuvres,” mini tapas based on seasonal fare and the chef’s whims such as a vegetable bouillon, shrimp ravioli, fish tartare or lamb croquette. Follow with a creative pasta dish like lobster pasta with a “creamy” coconut milk broth, a perfectly cooked meat or fish dish such as a grilled miso mackerel with veggies in coconut milk reduction. Don’t skip the light yet flavorful desserts including a melon “cappuccino” with coconut sorbet or a pistachio strawberry rice pudding.

7) Laurent Bunel / The Carlton

The Leffler family, aka “le bouquet de Fleurs” as we’ve now become known, enjoyed a marvelous stay at the Carlton Hotel. When I think of Cannes, I think of the Carlton hotel, the central pillar that has become the landmark midpoint of the Croisette. The hotel has managed to hold on to its traditional charm, yet modernize at the same time.

Shout out to the especially notable breakfast buffet. Sure, most fancy hotels have a nice buffet breakfast, but the Carlton goes above and beyond. The hotel’s head chef Laurent Bunel and his team focus on seasonal, local fare at all meals. The breakfast buffet featured a varied assortment of fresh breads, pastries and incredibly juicy fruits, plus a hot buffet and, my favorite, an organic corner featuring an amazing organic dried fruit and seed bread, yogurts, teas and applesauces. Not to mention a side of THE SUN, with a heaping portion of friendly service from the lovely team at the Carlton. As many of you know, there are few things I love more in life than breakfast and fancy hotels and the combination at the Carlton is a dream come true.
On our first night upon arrival, we were told “there’s a lobster and champagne prix fixe menu for dinner tonight, you’re our guest, I hope that’s OK.” Of course, we were appalled. Invited? Lobster? Champagne? Obviously, we were in for a hellish evening.
Not only was the food delicious- chef Laurent Bunel’s attention to fresh, local fare and mélange of sauveurs is impressive- but the Carlton’s terrace on a beautiful summer night is magical. Special shout out to François, the host at the terrace at night (and now an honorary member of the Bouquet de Fleurs family).
The Carlton is also currently serving up a healthy “detox” menu in partnership with a nearby clinic. Check out the video of Bunel serving me up some healthy – yet delicious! - fare to get me back into shape at the end of this year’s exhausting Cannes Film Festival.
http://www.france24.com/en/20110522-cannes-film-festival-behind-the-scenes-detox-spa-movies-celebrities-france
Merci to the Carlton for the most fabulous stay – and meals – ever!

8) Monsieur Myrtille (Mr. Blueberry)

OK so he may not wear a chef’s hat and work out of a kitchen, but Monsieur Myrtille does know how to whip out a mean blueberry. Monsieur Myrtille, aka Michel, producer of Les Délices du Petit Prince / Myrtilles d'Ogeu (Ogeu blueberries) in Saint Exupéry, sells baskets of his lovely berries at the Raspail organic market on Sundays during the summer months. The berries are plump and flavorful - the best I've ever had. Enjoy them fresh while the weather is warm or stick them in the freezer to enjoy blueberry smoothies all year long. Don’t miss Michel's homemade blueberry jams, compotes and juices as well, bottled up blueberry goodness you can enjoy even after the – in my opinion, way too short – blueberry season ends.

9) Jean-François Hammerle / Ermelinda Ennas / Voy Alimento

I recently blogged about Voy Alimento, the super superfoods supercafé and boutique on the super Canal Saint Martin. Here, Jean-François Hammerle shares his creative take on superfoods with chef Ermelinda Ennas behind the stove whipping up her version of power-packed vegan comfort food. The Voy chefs manage to turn out different combinations every day, but make sure to keep their in-house staples like urucum and blue corn galettes, “purple power” blue corn, cinnamon and ginger drink or cacao or acai desserts. The plate of the day is always flavor-packed and filling, yet light enough to bring sustainable energy that lasts through the day. My current faves are a cacao and sesame salad, acerola and avocado salad, quinoa with carob and hazelnuts – that is, when I’m not munching on their spirulina or urucum crackers at home. Voy also happens to be one of Alain Ducasse’s fave spots in the city – it’s one of his best 200 addresses in the capital in his new book “J’Aime Paris.”

10) Betrand Grébaut / Septime

Septime has been the talk of Parisian foodies since it opened just a few months ago. Often, when I hear so much buzz about a place, I end up being inevitably disappointed. Not so for Septime. Young chef (yes, many of Paris’ new stars in the kitchen are barely teenagers) (OK I exaggerate, but just a bit) Bertrand Grébaut works from his open kitchen to cook up inspired food based on the freshest of seasonal ingredients. Choose from around three or four appetizers, main courses and desserts. I had a strange fish I’d never heard of that I was told resembled mackerel. Holy Mackerel, or Holy Sort of-Mackerel!, it was amazing. The fish was served raw and marinated with salicorn seaweed, a purple herb sorbet and a cucumber sauce. Ma mère had the gnocchi with a gouda sauce and watercress. Next, I followed with a delectable monkfish with a virgin olive oil sauce, mizuna, fresh berries and sautéed fennel. Mom had the lamb with eggplant purée, zucchini and arugula. The dessert was memorable as well – buttery roasted peaches with a peach sorbet and meringues. Mom had the chocolate cake with passion fruit sorbet. I admit that I forgot the name of our wine, but I must find out because it was the lightest red wine that has every touched my lips, yet it was surprisingly bold. It was from Provence. Light and bold. Came in a bottle. Anyone? The waiters are friendly – and very good-looking may I add, I wondered if it must be a requirement to work there – and the low-key bistro feel is très French. It’s traditional French bistro fare with a twist, and very light for summer as well. Definitely worth a trip … but make sure to reserve in advance.

Dr. and Mrs. McDreamy

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Leffler) — Mon, 04 Jul 2011 08:20:00 +0000

At the Paris TRANSFORMERS premiere with Patrick Dempsey !

RebecCannes

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Leffler) — Sun, 03 Jul 2011 19:22:00 +0000

Wondering where I've been? Check out these videos from le Festival de Cannes 2011 !
Back soon with more Paris fun, promise! Bisous

http://lafleurdeparis.wikitube.in/

Voy to the World!

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Leffler) — Wed, 15 Jun 2011 13:42:00 +0000

Oy Voy! Why did it take me so long to discover the pearl of a restaurant/shop on the Canal Saint Martin, Voy Alimento ? Located just off of the Canal’s Quai de Jemmapes, the small yet clean shop boasts a mini restaurant where Voy’s Jean-François Hammerle and his friendly team of healthy helpers serve up seasonal, creative fare infused with the superfoods sold at the shop. Start with a “Purple Power” drink of purple corn, ginger and apple juice or, if you are planning a triathalon for the day, opt for the “Purple Patate” with added guarana (aka a natural form of what I can only imagine rivals the chemical components of SPEED that I tried there yesterday and may not sleep again until 2015).

Follow with the daily plate (or a “petite” version for smaller appetites), a copious portion of an eclectic mix of vegan concoctions like tofu with a nopal cactus sauce, sesame and raw cacao, avocado, mango salad, potato and lucuma salad, cashew nut and açai purée and quinoa. All served with delectable purple corn and – savory patties, spirulina or chili sauces, a black bean chili and amazingly addictive crackers made of Urucum and turmeric spices. Finish off with an açai or cacao dessert or a Cat’s Claw infusion with acerola. The setting is warm and comforting and the sociable staff are willing to answer all of your questions about the different adventures ingredients (or at least all of mine, which is already quite impressive). Go early to beat the crowd, or even head in for an afternoon snack or early dinner since Voy is open all day until 7 pm. The restaurant is also open for brunch on Sundays from noon until 6 pm.

Acerola. Carob. Cat’s Claw. Jojoba. Lucuma. Maca. Klamath. Guarana. Copaiba. Chlorella. Gomphrena. Aguaymanto. Yacon.

If you have no idea what these words mean or if they‘re your favorite superfoods, Voy will be unforgettable. These aren’t just any superfoods. Hammerle discovered the potential of South-American superfoods when he lived in Peru for nine years and has brought his savoir-faire of, en French, “les superaliments” to Paris. He started selling super superfood products featuring quality ingredients carefully chosen from across the globe at the Raspail organic market on Sundays- and still does! In 2006, Hammerle partnered with Charles Bradier to open Voy and, the rest is healthy history.

The experience of dining at Voy (and likely leaving with a bag full of superfoods to get you through the day, week or coming months) is definitely not one to miss. Not to mention, the foods are super and so are the prices. All of the food is organic and a huge plate of the day’s seasonal superfood-filled cuisine is 15 euros. If you can’t get enough, make sure to take home a bottle (or twelve) of their “Purple Power.” It’s my new official beverage (yes, I have an official beverage, shouldn’t everyone ?) I feel like Superwoman with all of these superfoods! Not sure what to do with your recently-purchased bag of lucuma or chlorella? Have no fear, Frédéric Marr is here with a series of superfood-inspired recipes to amuse your palette and show you that even if you can’t pronounce them, superfoods can be delicious.
Here’s a sneak preview you can make at home. I call it “Shake what your Maca gave ya.”

Quinoa with avocado and Voy Alimento Maca

1 cup of cooked Quinoa
1 avocado
1 tablespoon of walnut oil
1 tablespoon of maca powder
6 walnuts (or, go crazy, have – gasp! – SEVEN!)
Cook the quinoa (if you don’t know how to do this, call me – you have no idea what you’re missing). Mix the maca powder with the walnut oil. Add the quinoa then the avocado cut into small cubes and mix “delicately” (ah, how the French are so chic when they write recipes). Decorate with chopped walnuts. Then, with all of the energy from your superfood-filled meal, SHAKE WHAT YOUR MACA GAVE YA.

VOY ALIMENTO
23, rue des Vinaigriers Paris, France, 75010 Tel : +33 (0)1 42 01 03 44
Voy’s website with product info:
http://www.voyalimento.fr/
And their blog:
http://voy-plantes.com/
Frédéric Marr’s Nutrivitalité info and other fab recipes at:
http://www.nutrivitalite.fr/