Here is another one of those things that you should try while in Paris: a falafel. I know, I know, it’s not the first, tenth, or even hundredth, thing that comes to mind when you think of French cuisine, but L’As du Falafel serves up the best falafel outside of the mid-east (and likely better than many there!).

As you approach the store, you will see other restaurants all making the absurd claim that they have better falafels. Resist the temptation to get one form anywhere other than L’As du Falafel. Stick to your goal. At the intersection of Rue des Ecouffes and Rue des Rosiers you will notice one particular restaurant that has an abnormally long line. That’s where you want to be. Queue up and don’t be daunted by the wait, it tends to move fairly quickly. But if you are in a hurry, take advantage of their to-go window and eat your falafel on the street. I can assure you that you won’t be the only one doing it.

The falafel in question.

Just be aware that this place is no secret. The falafel has fans coming from all over Paris–heck, people come from all around the world. The sandwich itself is stuffed with about 6 golf-ball sized falafel balls (essentially fried chickpea dough balls), plenty of creamy hummus, cucumbers and fried eggplant. Be sure to ask for the spicy harissa sauce added in, it definitely pushed an already fabulous sandwich over the edge. It’s a delicious mess that’s actually best tackled with a fork. Just don’t be shy about it.

While you are there, know that is one more thing this restaurant is known for, and that is its lemonade. In the US, lemonade–the kind made with lemons and sugar–is everywhere. But in Europe if you ask for a lemonade, you are served a Sprite. The whole “when life gives you lemons” thing never really caught on, so real lemonade is virtually impossible to find. Take advantage of it while you can.

Related posts:

• Les Fines Gueules
• Cheese (at Astier)
• Back in France
• Street Food: Döner Kebab
• La Crêperie Bretonne