Pre-requisite: Be French

Le Recrutement, 36 Boulevard de la Tour Maubourg

I have had the displeasure of visiting this establishment several times. Sadly, all 3 times were unpleasant experiences.

It is safe to say that they do not welcome foreigners the same way they do Parisians.

1st Visit December 2015: I was renting an Air B&B a couple of blocks away on Quai D'Orsay and wanted to experience the true french tradition of cafe culture. I ordered a glass of wine and a cheese plate. Now, we all know that portions in France are much smaller than American counterparts. They basically brought me out a cheeseplate that was big enough to feed at least 10 people. I know this is France but have been to other establishments and know waiters will usually warn you if what you are ordering is going to be too much for you. And I'm not even complaining about that part. The part that I took issue with is the attitude I was given for asking to take it away (in french "emporter). He looked at me like I had 20 heads. 

2nd Visit December 2015: Figured instance number one was just a cultural difference so agreed to meet my friend there for lunch. We both ordered the steak tartare. Before I go on, I'm not implying this was purposely done, well, I guess I kind of am... See, my friend is Australian. And if you have met any Aussies, they are the complete opposite of the French in social demeanor, behavior, etc. In other words, they are more carefree and less uptight. He was making jokes with the server and bartender, which I knew came off as offensive. And let me say, he was not offensive at all. I just know from my experience with the French is that they are beyond uptight. I tried to tell him that he shouldn't joke with them and that they didn't get it, but he thought I was too socially proper so continued. All I'm saying is that we both ended up with food poisoning. Coincidence? I think not.

3rd Visit September 2016: I was here on a date and went to use the bathroom before we ordered. My date was outside. I walked in and the host immediately blocked me from the bathroom. I told him we were going to order, but he wouldn't let me go until I ordered something. So, I just went to the bar and ordered a glass of wine. My date came in to see what was taking so long and got very agitated and started yelling at the bartender and host in french because they were taking advantage of me because I was an American. Needless to say, we left and that was the last time I ever stepped foot in that establishment.

As they say, third time's the charm. Case closed.