Caramelized Apple Tarte Tatin

Tonight, we had dinner with a long-time friend and colleague of E’s at a neighborhood gem, Chez Maman.  Let me tell you, if you haven’t tried this place it’s a local must-visit.  Great French food, casual as French places go, and delish.  This was our first visit since Chez Papa closed and Chez Maman moved up the Hill – and as usual, we were not disappointed.  Want to learn more? http://www.chezmamansf.com/presspotrero.html

The Tarte Tatin is an upside-down pastry in which the fruit are caramelized in butter and sugar before the tart is baked.  Think pineapple upsidedown cake, but stepped up a notch in class and sophistication.  As you can see from the picture, this is all you could want in a single-serving tarte tatin: buttery pastry topped with a mountain of tender caramelized apples and garnished with fresh whipped crème and a spring of mint, sitting next to a perfect swirl of thick creamy vanilla ice cream.  Très délicieux!

 

What are your local French places like?  Share links in the comments!