After my disappointment with Terre et Mer for my boyfriend's birthday, I can't tell you how…read morerelieved and contented I was with our anniversary experience chez la gourmandière. Every. Single. Dish. was exquisitely flavorful, fresh, and not to mention downright beautiful. The balance of savors was truly delightful in comparison with some of the other Michelin/ Michelin-aspiring restaurants that I have tried. When dining here, I honestly felt the presence of the chef's philosophy behind and commitment to every element of each plate. From the apéritif to the dessert, I could not contain myself from smiling after each first bite.
Two dishes that were particularly memorable were the dish with scallops and beets as well as the dish with a braised medallion of venison. To give you an idea of the caliber of la gourmandière, my boyfriend typically does not eat shellfish under any circumstances. But on this night, he not only ate shellfish, but enjoyed said dishes immensely. Additionally, the kouign amann that accompanied our after-dinner coffee was The Best that I have ever tasted.
My only reproach is that the physical temperature of the restaurant made it a little difficult to truly appreciate the two dishes with frozen elements. However, this one detail will certainly not prevent me from returning, with pleasure, to la gourmandière. In fact, I cannot wait to bring my parents here the next time that they visit France.
Thank you, to the chef, the waitstaff, the sommelier, and all involved, for an unforgettable night.
