08/05/2026: Welcome to the 13th arrondissement, far from the hustle and bustle of the grand boulevards, to discover a true institution of Southeast Asian cuisine: **Chanthaboury**.
If you're looking for glitz or minimalist design, this isn't the place for you. Here, the focus is on the food and the warm welcome, imbued with a timeless kindness.
### 🏮 The Atmosphere
Located on Rue de la Procession (or at their historic address on Avenue de Choisy, depending on the era), Chanthaboury is the very definition of a **"neighborhood restaurant"** that you'd like to keep secret. The decor is understated, typical of family-run establishments in Chinatown, prioritizing efficiency and conviviality. It's the ideal spot for a quick but authentic lunch or a relaxed dinner with friends.
### 🍜 The Menu: Between Laos and Thailand
The restaurant's strength lies in its mastery of **Laotian and Thai** cuisine. Unlike some establishments that smooth out flavors for Western palates, Chanthaboury stays true to its focus on boldness and spices.
* **Nem Thadeua (Crispy Rice):** Undoubtedly one of the best in Paris. A mix of toasted rice, pieces of fermented pork (som mou), mint, and peanuts. It's textured, tangy, crunchy... pure bliss.
* **Laap (Minced Meat Salad):** Whether it's beef, pork, or chicken, it's served with an abundance of fresh herbs. Special mention goes to the aroma of the roasted rice powder.
* **Curries:** The green curry or the Panaeng curry offer a perfect balance between the sweetness of coconut milk and the spiciness of chili.
* **Laotian Sausages:** Homemade, they are rich in herbs and lemongrass. A must-try to start your meal.
### 💡 Guide's Tip
> **Go for the chili!** If you like spicy food, specify it when ordering. The chefs here know how to balance the heat so that it enhances the ingredients without overpowering them. And don't forget to accompany your meal with **sticky rice** served in its traditional little wicker basket (the *thip khao*).
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### ✅ Why keep coming back?
1. **Value for money:** Rarely matched in Paris for such authenticity.
2. **Freshness:** The herbs (Thai basil, cilantro, mint) are always vibrant.
3. **Generosity:** You feel like a guest of a family eager to share their roots with you.
**Verdict:** An essential stop for any lover of spicy and fragrant flavors looking for a culinary journey without a plane ticket.
04/05/2026: The decor is in keeping with the Thai theme.
The service is quite fast, but there's only one person serving...very friendly and attentive!
I would gladly return because it's so delicious.