Paris is one of my favorite cities in the world even as a celiac on a gluten free diet! I fell in love with Paris on my 1st visit with my high school French language class. I still remember walking down the Boulevard Saint Michel and deciding that somehow I was going to study in France during my junior year in college.

Needless to say, after spending over a year living in France, I've been coming back ever since for the past 25-plus years for both fun and work! Paris quite simply rejuvenates my soul and I love playing tour guide, too!

One restaurant that I go to each and every time in Paris is Café Marly. Located at the Louvre facing the pyramids, the tables outside under the archways are a must! I have lost count of the number of friends, family and clients I have introduced to Café Marly for lunch or dinner over the years. All of whom can eat any foods and have loved all of their meals! That being said, I eat incredible gluten and dairy free meals at Café Marly as well (in French that's sans gluten et sans laitage).

I remember the first time I went there after my diagnosis of celiac and food allergies. After explaining in French that I was allergic to gluten, wheat, flour, bread, milk and cheese, I showed him my gluten free French dining translation card. I had revised this card to also include my food allergies to be sure he understood my food requirements.

I asked about ingredients and food preparation for a few dishes. To be on the safe side, I stated that I didn't want any sauce on my beef filet to avoid gluten, wheat and butter. He promptly said that I was in Paris and that he could not possibly let me eat plain food in France. He then checked with the chef and came back to tell me that they would prepare my filet specially with a safe balsamic reduction sauce.

Needless to say, I was in heaven with my delicious meat dish and haricots verts (French green beans) cooked in oil - not butter of course! Just as a side note - ever since my 1st meal with gluten and dairy free sauce, I always ask if a special sauce is a possibility wherever I go!

They also serve a delicious French green bean salad with mushrooms, excellent omelettes, great burgers and an incredible plate of berries. My friends who can eat anything love the crème brulée too!

Have a cup of coffee or a glass of wine. Soak up the history and ambiance of Café Marly: it's good for your soul!

And, as always, when traveling to a foreign speaking country, be sure to have your gluten free, dairy free, and/or allergy free translation cards with you at all times to make sure you are safe when eating out in restaurants around the world.

Tell us about your experiences in Paris and at Café Marly!