21 Comments
User's avatar
Dina H's avatar

Hi Laura, true, it’s more iconic than the coq. Made me think of your article about the chairs in Vienna. They go together.

Expand full comment
Laura Calder's avatar

One thing about Vienna that you definitely don’t see here is people reading actual newspapers. That impressed me!

Expand full comment
Dina H's avatar

Interesting. In Paris, unfortunately the smoking at the cafes drove me indoors. I hear it’s better but for me it’s an issue.

Expand full comment
Laura Calder's avatar

The smoking is mostly gone, and totally gone indoors. More joggers than ever, too!

Expand full comment
Ryan's avatar

What a wonderful story - perfect reminder to appreciate all the previously-under-appreciated workhorses in our lives, and a great opportunity to highlight a real artisan. Thank you!

Expand full comment
Dee Miller's avatar

This is one of the most interesting posts about Paris or French life, from the viewpoint of a simple small table, saying so much about the culture, personality and history there. You made me think and smile.

Expand full comment
Laura Calder's avatar

Thank you!

Expand full comment
Shirley McMurtrie's avatar

Such an interesting article, Laura.

Expand full comment
Brenda Million Radford's avatar

The only memories I have sitting at a bistro table are about the people I was with but I love the concept of appreciating the Ardamez table or any really well made one. Thanks for another great post!

Expand full comment
Laura Calder's avatar

Well, the tables don’t draw attention to themselves. Of course you remember the people. Aren’t they generous that way? But, I just wanted to give them a bit of applause, because…well, they do work hard! And they make life so spontaneously nice! xoxo

Expand full comment
Brenda Million Radford's avatar

Applause, applause!! They deserve it.

Expand full comment
Annie2's avatar

Hi Laura! I really enjoyed this piece! Pulled out photos from my last time in Paris to look with ‘new eyes.’ I have always loved your writing — hopefully you are thinking to do another actual ‘cookbook’ soon! ❤️🍽️

Expand full comment
Patrice's avatar

So nice that the craft is being revived. They are beautiful!

Expand full comment
Kathleen's avatar

I will be in Paris early June. I will never look at a table Bistro or otherwise the same again.

I thank you so much for your beautiful way with words.

Expand full comment
Sonrisa's avatar

I love this. The last time I was in Paris it was raining on and off. We had stopped for a cafe and pattis and we all scooted under the cafe overhang and continued on. Full of spirit even the wobbly ones.

Expand full comment
Christine (Fillmore) Johnston's avatar

Thank you! I love your enthusiasm. We'll be in Tuscany in June as usual and I now have a new detail to note while we're there. I've sat at so many but never paid much attention. I'll report back on the state of Italian bistro tables!

Expand full comment
Bonnie Gilbert's avatar

Thank you for bringing to our attention the importance of the bistro table and to Ardamez, who are reviving the classic tables. It has given me a new appreciation for all tables, and for walking along the streets of Paris. Our last trip was in 1999. I now need to plan another trip.😊

Expand full comment
Elizabeth MacDonald's avatar

Brings back wonderful memories.

Expand full comment
Barbara Gaffney's avatar

Love the theme!

Expand full comment
John Carnegie's avatar

A delightful and delightfully written piece, Laura. Thanks!

Expand full comment
Laura Calder's avatar

Merci, John

Expand full comment