The first McDonald's opened in France in 1972 in a suburb of Paris. The Champs Élysées in Paris, one of the world's most famous avenues, became home to a McDonald's restaurant sixteen years later, in 1988. Fast forward to 2014 and a recent post on NPR's website confirms what I have been fearing, America's love for fast-food is quickly overtaking traditional french cuisine. NPR reported that an annual survey conducted by Gira Conseil, a french food consultancy found that 54% of total restaurant sales in France are attributable to fast food restaurants like McDonald's, Burger King and Subway. Consumption skyrocketed 14% in the past year alone. When I tried to look into these disturbing statistics I found the link to the survey broken. If this day had been April 1st I would have smiled and said this is a very clever April Fool's joke, but unfortunately it is not.
Fast is convenient, but I am certain it is not better and should not become the norm. I sincerely encourage you to slow down, patronize the local establishments for a unique dining experience. Also, learn to enjoy the art of cooking for yourself and others, explore new recipes, purchase fresh ingredients and make cooking and eating an adventure. Trust me, it will make you happier and healthier when you take charge of your own destiny..... you are what you eat.
Cooking is my life!
G-