it’s been a while since i was last in angelina cafe on rue de rivoli for one of the best cups of hot chocolate with whipped cream in paris. i was to meet a bunch of friends there but for many reasons i ran into bumps and snags that made me very late for the chocolate date. and i hate being late when it involves people having to wait for me.

once there, i felt a bit exasperated by the day’s events, and i was starving, having missed lunch. everyone else had already ordered something so i had to grab the attention of the waiter, which was like pulling teeth. (he was ignoring me) – eventually and unwillingly he came over. with hips twisted, eyes rolled practically up into his forehead, plus a big SIGH, the waiter awaited my order. (i could swear he was straight from a cartoon, a sort of pepe le pew gone bad.) i was also craving something salty so i ordered the salmon on toast and of course the reason for going to angelina in the first place: some hot chocolate. if you’re thinking, “PFFFF hot chocolate? whatever!” no, no, no – this does not in the slightest resemble your run-of-the-mill cup of hot chocolate, this is the silkiest, smooth, most chocolaty thick lusciousness you’ll ever drink.

the waiter: “WHAT??? salmon and chocolate?! that’s disgusting!” (he obviously and loudly didn’t approve of my order. in the meantime all eyes turned to me and i HATE that kind of attention!)

me (squinting and grumpy): “YES!! that’s what i want. i’m hungry and don’t want to order the hot chocolate later (thinking it would take too long). you might think that’s disgusting (thinking to myself maybe it WAS a disgusting combo) but that is what i feel like eating so yes, yes YES! i am ordering that. why do i have to explain my choice!?”

at that moment, there was only: silence.

then all at once, we burst into laughter – everyone including the waiter. and from that point on, the waiter and i were like this: [*fingers crossed*] – go figure. he brought my stuff surprising fast and gave me the postcard of Angelina for free (see picture).

Angelina
226 rue de Rivoli
75001 Paris France
Tel: 01.42.60.82.00

note: though i’ve heard recently that angelina is in need of an overhaul to perk up the dingy louis xiv decor, the hot chocolate hasn’t changed.

oh, and the waiting staff attitude probably hasn’t either. but don’t let that stop you from going. it’s really no big deal.

[top photo courtesy of pat and seb. merci!]

tags: france food angelina paris cafe hot chocolate