So often we hear in the states that the French are arrogant and pretentious. I've found that to…read moremostly be false, until this afternoon...
I was very much looking forward to dining here but the restaurant canceled our reservation just a couple of hours before we were supposed to dine. When we arrived, on time, we were turned away. Apparently confirming the reservation multiple times in the weeks leading up to my trip wasn't enough. During a tasting this morning at Dujac, in a cave with no service, I missed one final email confirmation. Because I guess three wasn't enough. God forbid people keep their phones away and actually live in the moment.
There were empty tables when we arrived so this was clearly a matter of them simply not wanting to serve us before they closed for the day. Unfortunately I have zero desire to return and give them a second chance to redeem themselves. I hope this stain serves as a reminder that people are human and should be shown grace. I've spent two decades working in the food and beverage world. Many of those years in a restaurant. If one of my employees pulled something like this there would be swift action taken and we'd be inviting the guests back for a free meal.
We ended up across the street at Brasserie Le Belena. Where we had no reservation and they were filled to the brim. Nonetheless they welcomed up and sat us quickly. We had an exceptional lunch and we are very grateful they accommodated us. I'll be leaving them a nice 5 star review after this.
I'd suggest literally any other restaurant in town at this point.