Crêpes, cocktails. Paris is no stranger to either, but recently they’ve joined forces to start a little trend. Kasha (meaning ‘buckwheat flour’ in Russian) on the already foodie rue des Récollets, is now part of the tribe. Started by three industry rising stars, with a collective CV that includes chez Jeannette, Enfants Perdus (next door), L'Arpège and Garance, Kasha is another great address within sight of the Canal Saint Martin.
The deco is pure Instagram fodder, pink-white walls, hexagonal mirror tiles, hanging plants, and mint-green leather benches. An oasis as edible as the scents from the kitchen…
Drinks up and the cocktail list, created by the team behind our favourite Monsieur Antoine, is concise and unique. Bespoke creations include Larme, a buttercup coloured concoction of Pisco, vanilla syrup, egg yolk and lemon; Titre, with Calvados and bergamote; or Factory, a simple gin and tonic with rosemary. Good options for those that aren’t keen on cider, but if you do - the list is long as any wine list.
If you arrive hungry and want a starter, there are some well-executed dips: a nutty houmous, curried aubergine; and fromage frais, all served with fried galette chips. A good accompaniment to the cocktails.
Down to the main event. Savory galettes range from an excellent black pudding with apples soaked in Calvados, and goats’ yoghurt; to roasted carrots with curry, fromage frais and toasted grains; and smoked salmon with rainbow beetroot. There’s a classic egg and ham but pimped with great quality Jambon Prince de Paris and Comté. But as inventive as the fillings were, the galette itself (that batch anyway) was a bit doughy and lacking in taste. But hold out for the next course.
Room for pudding? Of course, you’re duty bound. Crêpes up the ante, with the quintessential salted caramel with muscovado sugar; chocolate ganache and whipped cream (only for the brave); and a spin on a tarte tatin with grilled hazelnuts and drizzled salted caramel. They're airy, paper-thin, and delectable. You'll be glad you saved space.
There’s a good midday formula for €13 and Sunday brunch (the best hungover cure, no?) for €22 until 4pm.
For a dish that started as an accidental dessert, the crêpe is creating a very purposeful wave in Paris.