Un dejeuner serieux (a serious lunch)

In anticipation of the first Big Meal of the trip we strolled idly through Jardin des Plantes (looking lovely as spring forces winter to one side with gorgeous displays of blooms).

Took in the Museum de l'evolution (sort of odd that such a Roman Catholic nation give so much due to evolutionary science). Full of school excursions,but you can dodge those easily enough and take it in in relative peace. Admittedly, it's a bit difficult to read the plaques and other interpretive information........

From there it was but a short amble along the left bank to Le Dejeuner Serieuse (The Serious Lunch).


La Tour d'Argent has been operating next to the Seine since 1582. While we may not be the most distinguished couple to visit, we're certainly wowed.

The food was excellent:

• Amuse-bouches
• Pike dumpling "Andre Terrail"
• Poached foie gras steamed with seaweed, emulsion of artichoke & lemon, in aromatic broth
• Fillets of sole with lobster, accompanied by broad & cannellini beans with tarragon
• Sealed heart of Black Angus fillet, slow-simmered shallots with truffles, beef marrow and celery
• Roquefort ice cream
• Shell of dark chocolate with sesame seeds and a lemon caramelised custard cream
• Poached pear "Vie Parisienne"
• Mignardises
  

The wine was possibly even better:

• Champagne Tour d'argent (light chardonnay style)
• 1992 Saint Aubin "En Remilly" (Colin)
• 2000 Saint Chinian "Les Cres" (Borie la Vitarelle)
  

And the view! Simply impeccable