I like to indulge a little sometimes. I may not have a massive recreational budget, but I can treat myself occasionally to fun things like, hot chocolate at the Hotel Bristol, or chocolate cake at Buvette Gastrothèque. Both require a budget of around 20 euros or less, and I consider that a decent price to pay for a little winter indulging in the city of light!

Chéri and I went to the Bristol for hot chocolate on Christmas eve, so it was even more delightful with all of the decorations, the lights and the table in the lobby just laden with scrumptious abundance, that I was assuming was there for guests. I was so pretty I didn’t dare dip my fingers in to take a piece of delight from it. Besides, there was a porcelain pitcher of hot chocolate calling my name! The hot chocolate was sweetened just enough to take away the bitter bite of dark, rich chocolate, and it was perfect, served with a little tray of truffles, Yay! More chocolate! I drank the whole pot I believe… Mmmm!

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Buvette Gastrothèque is one of the more esthetically pleasing places I have found in the trendy 9th. I was seduced by this place immediately when strolling by it one fine summer day a couple of years ago. They are packed every night, and it’s not surprising. It delicious. I met a friend there for dinner and dessert, and even got to have a mocktail (pregnancy obliges) that was so delicious I didn’t even miss the extra kick of alcohol. But let me tell you about that chocolate cake! It was moist and rich, with the perfect density and topped with a huge dollop of dreamy unsweetened whipped cream. It’s amazing how great a classic dessert can be if you just reduce the amount of sugar involved and allow the flavors to burst through the texture. It was beyond amazing. I’m going back for me soon, believe me!

What little indulgences have you done this winter?!? Share your stories in the comments below.

*bisous chocolatés de Paris*