$$$ – expensive

The elegantly worn front entrance is lined with hedges, creating an escape from the commotion of the Downtown Mall and the growing traffic in Cville. It houses a contemporary French cuisine, plush seats, and quiet but attentive service. The feeling was sophisticated and a bit formal but not stuffy.

When we were seated outside, two waitresses came to set the table and offer us a starter of fennel soup, compliments of the chef. It wasn’t strained well, or even at all, but this have been the texture the chef was going for. Though we did not order a “first” (appetizer), we received a palate cleanser of raspberry sorbet (so food network!). I ordered the salmon, which was very tender and flavorful but had a faint scent of fish. The food arrived very quickly (possibly because there weren’t many patrons that night). After relaxing, I ordered the fresh strawberry tart with lavender panna cotta (SO GOOD!), apricot marmalade, and fresh berries. It was a not-too-heavy sweet note for the end of the meal. Two bite size cookies and two sugared orange peels accompanied the check. They sure know how to do food.

One last piece that really put this restaurant on my high list: What i’ve come to realize is that great restaurants have amazing food and service and a lovely atmosphere/decor. But to be an excellent restaurant, the bathroom has to match it all. The bathroom was spacious with an elegant floor mirror. Jars of complimentary tootsie rolls, tampons, and condoms (!?) lined the table. They really seem to love giving free stuff…and I am not one to complain!