Given the name, I assumed that Melt would be a place that serves grilled cheese.
But boy was I wrong.
Because now I get it. This place has got to be named after the melt-in-your-mouth brisket that they’re making, that’s so soft you don’t even need your knife to cut into it. That thin layer of glorious fat on top tasted like meat flavored butter, and was just as soft.
While there are striking similarities to The Beast (the self-service style counter, the trays that you’re served on, even the look and feel of the place), thankfully the differences stop there. Melt may not yet be at American-sized BBQ portions, but happily the helpings are more generous than those at The Beast. Rest assured, you won’t leave Melt feeling hungry.
The meats on offer are American Black Angus brisket and beef rib, with a smoked chicken option as well as a pulled pork burger. I tried both the brisket and the spare ribs, and while at first bite I totally fell in love with the buttery, perfectly smoked brisket (like eyes rolling to the back of your head kind of love), the spare rib seemed to grow on me as I ate it, leaving me with a great final impression. I’d have to definitely order both again next time, since the combination was pure meat heaven.
The sides, while a bit pricey, (4€ for French fries, no matter how crispy, is still a bit steep for me, though totally in line with Paris prices) are extremely yummy. The roasted corn on the cob with chili butter had a welcome char on it, and was a good sized helping too. Condiment wise they’ve got homemade coleslaw, pickled red-onions (that get bonus points from me as I now can never go without a jar of these in my fridge), and my personal favorite, pickled peppers (now say that 3x fast!) that packed a bit of heat.
All in all, I’m sure that Melt has discovered the recipe to success. They’re big enough for it to be likely for you to find a table in the near future, the prices are reasonable (15€ for meat + a side), the team is super friendly, and you can tell there’s a lot of love going into the food.
Needless to say, I’m going back for seconds ASAP.
Melt: the details
74 Rue de la Folie Mericourt, 75011
Metro: Oberkampf
@melt.paris and @meltparis
Opens November 23rd, 2016.
Mains: 10€, sides 5€
