Exploding Myths, part 3

French fries -- Are just called "fries" ("frites") here. Very common, but as with many other things they are subject to unwritten but elaborate rules. Duck legs are served with french fries; duck breasts with mashed potatoes. Plain grilled steak with fries; steak with a sauce, like steak au poivre, without. And so on.

French press -- Many people use these at home to make coffee, but at restaurants and cafes it is almost always espresso-style.

French dressing -- I actually was served a salad at lunch today that had what Americans would describe as French dressing on it. But that's the first time in the nearly 3 months I've spent here. Basic vinaigrette is far more common.

Frenching -- Butchers back home tend to automatically cut the meat off the bones of a rack of lamb for a nicer presentation, but I haven't seen any "frenched" chops here. The French tend to be a bit frugal about food and this technique does tend to waste it.

French kiss -- Yes, they do it here too. But not, so far, to me.