MARTIN, Paris

Its already April. Time flies so fast, soon half of the 2015 will be behind us. But finally we welcomed spring and life is happier with the sunshine. Everything is in bloom, the weather is warmer and people seem to smile more.
Barbora and Kat have reunited in Paris again, straight after the Easter break. The weather could not be better. We have visited a newly opened tapas restaurant close to the Republique and liked it so much we went back the next day. 

In the evening Martin serves small dishes influenced by French, Spanish and other cuisines which are ideal for sharing. For lunch they have a small selection of dishes to choose from. You can choose from salads, terrine or soups, the main is a choice between fish and meat and some deserts. The menu changes daily, based on the available ingredients and the season. Everything is fresh and prepared on the premises, including the pork terrine and pickles.

The Martin has a chef for lunch service who comes from New Zealand. Her name is Nathalie and she worked in many big cities including London and New York before she moved to Paris. The vegetables are from the renowned market trader Joel Thiebault who has been nick named the pope of vegetables. Its the best you can get. The market is at Place du president Wilson twice a week. The chefs create the menu around the produce that has been brought to the restaurant. 

Normally its not very complicated, but surprising flavour combinations and freshness will win you over. I was especially impressed by a cold soup, made from carrots and topped by white flaky fish. Would never thought of serving a cold carrot soup but it was delicious. I also liked the combination of pickled rhubarb with peas and feta cheese in a simple salad. The farmed chicken had a delicious brown meat and the fish was fresh and perfectly cooked. 

The owner Loic is very passionate about food and good quality ingredients. He offers great advice and insight into the foods and introduced me to some interesting ingredients. The way he speaks about the dishes and the produce can make you excited and eager to try everything. 
On top of that the prices are very reasonable.  For the quality you are getting is truly impressive. 
So whether you're visiting Paris or you live there, make a trip to Boulevard du Temple and enjoy lunch at Martin's sunshine lit terrace.