The Sweet Life in Paris

In this delightful memoir, David Lebovitz, a renowned pastry chef and cookbook author, shares his experiences of starting a new life in Paris after nearly two decades in the culinary industry. With his worldly belongings packed into just three suitcases, Lebovitz arrives in the vibrant Bastille neighborhood, full of hope and anticipation. However, he quickly realizes that life in France is quite different from what he expected.

From navigating the strict rules of social conduct to deciphering the enigmas of men’s footwear, and from dealing with shopkeepers who seemingly work hard not to sell anything to mastering the etiquette of the cheese plate, Lebovitz takes readers on a humorous journey as he falls in love with, and even comes to understand, this enchanting yet sometimes frustrating city.

Throughout the book, Lebovitz recounts moments when he realized he had transformed into un vrai parisien (a true Parisian), such as considering the purchase of men’s dress socks adorned with cartoon characters, finding it completely normal when a bank with 135 euros in hand refuses to make change for a 134-euro payment, and dressing up to take out the garbage because appearances are everything in Paris.

In addition to the hilarious anecdotes, The Sweet Life in Paris features more than fifty original recipes for both savory and sweet dishes, including Pork Loin with Brown Sugar–Bourbon Glaze, Braised Turkey in Beaujolais Nouveau with Prunes, Bacon and Bleu Cheese Cake, Chocolate-Coconut Marshmallows, Chocolate Spice Bread, Lemon-Glazed Madeleines, and Mocha–Crème Fraîche Cake. These recipes will inspire readers to head to the kitchen and create their own taste of Parisian living.

Perfect for foodies, Francophiles, and anyone who has ever dreamed of starting a new life in a foreign city, The Sweet Life in Paris is a witty, charming, and mouthwatering read.