This first three-star dining experience definitely left a lasting impression and true respect for genuine haute cuisine (that's the level above the snobbish, wanna-be haute cuisine of which there is far too much). In one sense the first experience "ruins" you forever because your senses are so completely overwhelmed, as if you're actually using their full capacity for the first time. The "virgin" three-star experience really is something indescribably special, and I do not say that to denigrate my other, then future, experiences in any way, shape or form.

Of course there's a crocodile, what did you expect?!
Unfortunately this was before digital cameras entered our lives, and it never would have crossed our minds to bring along a regular camera to such a place. Since then we have lost all such scruples, and now bring in a nice, small, quiet, light-sensitive digital camera to our restaurant visits so that we can (hopefully) discretely document our experiences.
The inside of the restaurant was beautiful and classically decorated with wood paneling, paintings and large floral displays.
I do have a copy of our menu though, unfortunately without any wine information. They offered a special wine-by-the-glass menu chosen to match our food, to which we happily agreed.
Le Menu
Caille confite au Foie d'Oie "Maréchal de Contades" ou Foie de Canard poêlé à l'Abricot et au Gingembre
Rouget Barbet à la Fondue de Poireau et Concombre au Safran
Timbale de Sandre et Queues d'Écrevisses à l'Alsacienne
Consommé Chanteclerc et Ravioles d'Herbes à Tortue
Pigeon des Vosges aux Girolles et Croustille de Petits Pois
Fromages de France
Minestrone de Fruits d'Été à la Verveine
Parfait glacé au Café et Fine Champagne
Mignardises
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