The vibrant city of Paris has returned to a robust tradition that is more than a century old – the waiter and waitress race. In what is a palpable amalgamation of culture, history, tradition, and skillset, the city commemorated the distinct importance and essence of these individuals who serve the customers at the Parisian cafés and bistros, instrumental in shaping Paris’ unique charm and warmth.
“The French capital heralded a revival of the age-old race for its waiters and waitresses,” as the bustling city prepares to welcome an international audience for the imminent Olympics. The celebratory mood of the bustling city coincided with its preparations, as the Mayor of Paris iterated the cafés and bistros as quintessential pillars of community life and social interaction.
Imagine an Olympic sprinter navigating the bustling streets of Paris, while balancing a tray with a fluffy croissant, a steaming cup of coffee, and a glass of water, all without dropping a bead of the precious liquid. A challenging task for sure. But Pauline Van Wymeersch and Samy Lamrous, Paris’ fastest waitress and waiter, showcased this skill with panache as they took victory and the hearts of their adoring public.
Indeed, the artistry and mastery present in the bustling French cafés and restaurants speak to the country’s soul. These gatherings play host to a multitude of events, from lively debates to blossoming romances; they are nurturing destinations for the French people who seek more than just a physical nourishment.
These watering holes have sparked countless songs and poems, their unassuming charm harmoniously blending with the everyday life of the community. From the lyrical notes of Georges Brassens – “all the miserable, the down on their luck.” – to the crowded avenues of Paris, the bistros symbolize the simple pleasures and challenging moments of those they serve.
Touching upon the revival of this historic race, the city not only celebrates its cultural heritage but also seeks to shine under the Olympic spotlight, putting its best foot forward for its first Summer Games in a century. The wait staff, dressed to impress, navigated a mile-long route, balancing their trays with a set ensemble of a pastry, an empty coffee cup, and a water-filled glass.
Victorious, Van Wymeersch shared her mixed emotions about her work, acknowledging the arduous nature of her job while admitting its essence being intricately weaved into the fabric of her life. Her lived experience echoes the feelings of her fellow competitors, acknowleding the work’s rigor but appreciating its rewards.
The final word in any French café goes to the person behind the counter or the one holding the tray. The image of the moody, rude, and abrupt French waiter or waitress is not a lack of respect, says Thierry Petit, a veteran of the industry, emphasizing that it’s “very Frenchie.”
Paris’s Mayor, Anne Hidalgo, encapsulates the vibrant life that the Parisian cafés and bistros represent. Filled with chatter, disagreement, affection, and simple indulgences, these spaces are much more than food establishments – they are the ‘soul of Paris.’ As the city readies itself for the grandeur of the Olympics, let’s remember how crucial small, everyday elements are to showcasing a city’s broader culture, history, and community.
As this event underlined the significance of the Parisian waitstaff and their unique role in Parisian life, a critical message takes the forefront – individuals, and the roles they play, form the colorful and vibrant tapestry that showcases a city’s unique pulse to the world.
