There are days when even Les Grumpies disagree.
Piero was not keen on going to Aix. Too busy. Too many students. Too much… life.
But then — plot twist — he did what any sensible man married to Eveline would do:
He researched.
And found dumplings
Specifically at Les P’tites Bouchées.
A tiny place tucked into one of those sun-warmed Provençal streets where shutters are pastel and life happens outside.
Off we went.
Spring Was Definitely in the Air
The markets were glowing. The plane trees still bare but dramatic. The façades honey-coloured under that shameless blue Provençal sky.
Everyone was sitting outside — locals, students, couples, the occasional pigeon pretending to be cultured.
Aix in spring doesn’t whisper.
It hums.
And yes… I admit it.
Even I had a Plan B in my handbag.
(There is always a Plan B. I am Swiss.)
Dumplings That Changed the Mood
The highlight?
Obviously the dumplings.
Steaming bamboo baskets.
Perfectly pleated little parcels of happiness.
A fresh side salad.
Fluffy jasmine rice.
Simple. Honest. Delicious.
Piero’s face went from “Why are we here?” to
“We shall absolutely come back.”
Which, in Grumpy language, is equivalent to a five-star Michelin endorsement.
The wallpaper inside — playful monkeys in tropical foliage — felt like a wink. The bar tiles glossy black. The whole place small, stylish, and just a little bit unexpected. Exactly how we like it.
Why Aix in Spring Is Always a Good Idea
Because:
The markets are alive but not frantic. The light is soft but confident. The cafés spill onto the pavements. And even a slightly reluctant husband can be converted by dumplings.
We went for a “maybe”.
We left with a “we’ll be back”.
And that, dear reader, is how spring wins.
