Double Dragon Paris: Where Cultures Collide Over the Perfect Crunch in the French Capital

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I first discovered Double Dragon while scrolling through the Guide Michelin recommendations for Paris, intrigued by its reputation for blending Filipino and French culinary traditions. As I explored further, the restaurant’s website revealed the dish that sealed my fate: Crispy Pata, the iconic Filipino pork knuckle. Described as Jarret de porc d’Auvergne confit et frit—slow-cooked and fried pork knuckle from the Auvergne region.

As someone who spent part of her childhood in Bavaria, the birthplace of crispy pork knuckle, I couldn’t resist imagining this fusion version. The idea of combining the familiar crackling crunch with bold, Asian-inspired flavors lit a spark in me. But this wasn’t your classic Bavarian feast—this was its chic, Parisian cousin, elevated and reimagined. I knew I had to try it.

However, Paris had other plans. I was in town for work, with each evening booked solid, and as the days flew by, my chances of dining at Double Dragon dwindled. It wasn’t until my final night that I saw an opening to make it happen. With no reservation and time running out, I decided to risk it.

The Gamble

When I arrived at Double Dragon, the restaurant was alive with energy. Through the windows, I could see diners leaning in over steaming plates, their conversations punctuated by laughter and the rhythmic clinking of glasses. The aroma hit me the second I walked in—rich, smoky, and utterly tantalizing.

But inside, my heart sank. It was packed. Every table was full, and when I asked the hostess about availability, she shook her head apologetically. This was my last night in Paris—who knew when I’d have another chance to return? As I tried to mask my disappointment, the waitress leaned in with a knowing smile. “Leave me your number,” she said gently, “and I’ll call you if anything opens up.”

Grateful for even the smallest chance, I stepped out and wandered down the street to a cozy little corner bar. Champagne felt like the right choice for the moment—something celebratory yet bittersweet as I waited for the universe to decide my fate.

Just as I was beginning to give up hope, my phone buzzed. A table had freed up.

The Feast Worth Waiting For

Back at Double Dragon, I finally settled into a small table tucked into the lively dining room. My heart raced with anticipation as the dishes began to arrive, starting, of course, with the legendary pork knuckle.

The Crispy Pata was everything I had imagined and more. The outer layer was golden and crackling, shattering into shards with every bite. Inside, the meat was tender and flavorful, slow-cooked to perfection. The dish was presented in its purest form, accompanied by nothing more than a squeeze of citrus to cut through the richness. It was rustic and elegant all at once, a beautiful celebration of both Filipino tradition and French culinary finesse.

But the knuckle was just the beginning. I also ordered their fried siopao, pillowy steamed buns stuffed with melty Comté cheese, paired with an addictive XO and pepper mayo dip. These little pockets of heaven were light, fluffy, and oh-so-decadent.

A side of pickled vegetables added brightness and crunch, perfectly balancing the heavier dishes, while the sautéed mushrooms delivered a deep, earthy flavor that lingered on my palate. And because indulgence was the theme of the night, I couldn’t resist ordering oysters—fresh, briny, and utterly luxurious.

The Magic of Double Dragon

Double Dragon is more than a restaurant—it’s an experience. The Levha sisters, Katia and Tatiana (image below, photo credit The Social Food), have created a space where their Filipino heritage and French culinary expertise collide, producing a menu that’s as exciting as it is comforting.

That last meal in Paris wasn’t just about food; it was about savoring the moment, the spontaneity, and the serendipity of a last-minute seat. I left Double Dragon full, satisfied, and grateful for the small miracle that had allowed me to experience it.

For anyone heading to Paris, Double Dragon is a must. Whether it’s their legendary pork knuckle, their playful takes on Filipino classics, or their vibrant natural wine selection, there’s something here to make you fall in love with food all over again.

HERE WE OFFER A FILIPPINO INFLUENCED CUISINE WITH VIBRANT FLAVORS AND A NATURAL WINE LIST, IN A VERY SMOOTH SETTING, WITH A KIND SERVICE. WE TAKE RESERVATIONS AND WOULD BE HAPPY TO WELCOME YOU INTO OUR WORLD!

Practical Information

Address: 52 Rue Saint-Maur, 75011 Paris

Opening Hours:

• Tuesday: 19:30–22:30

• Wednesday–Saturday:

• Lunch: 12:00–14:00

• Dinner: 19:30–22:30

Contact: doubledragontogo@restoreve.com

Reservations: Highly recommended via their website.

Price Range: Moderate (€20–€50 per person depending on your selections).

Pro tip: If you don’t have a reservation, leave your number with the staff. As my story shows, you never know when luck will be on your side.

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