L’Ambroisie, a taste of paradise
Behind a discrete entrance bordered by two orange trees on the Place des Vosges you will find l’Ambroisie, one of the best restaurants in Paris. L’Ambroisie, which literally means “food of the gods”, is an exquisite dining venue for every gastronomy lover, an once-in-a-lifetime experience. The restaurant is located in Hôtel de Luynes, a classic building under the arcades surrounding the Place des Vosges. The house once belonged to the Duke of Chaulnes, a 17th century commoner. The building has been splendidly restored in its original style, offering an elegant setting for the dining room which fits very neatly into the old building.
The restaurant has won its spurs thanks to the refined and seasonal cuisine of Chef Bernard Pacaud, who developed his skills in Lyon, the French capital of gastronomy. In 1981, he opened his first restaurant, already called l’Ambroisie on rue de Bièvre on the left bank. Fame arrived soon afterwards when Pacaud got his first Michelin star in 1982 and then a second the following year. The ultimate consecration came in 1986 with the third one. The celerity of the process drew international acclaim and has attracted an elitist clientele. Many deals have been reached there as many businessmen and politicians like to meet at l’Ambroisie. Former French President Jacques Chirac related in his memoirs that he liked to bring in his international counterparts.
The most famous dishes include
– Poulette de Bresse rôtie au beurre de noix, salsifis au jus, truffe blanche
– Salmis de pigeon, rôtie d’artichauts violets au raifort.
And if you have a sweet tooth, you should be tempted by:
– Praliné pailleté au coing, crème glacée aux fèves de Tonka
– Tarte fine sablée au cacao amer, glace à la vanille Bourbon.
L’Ambroisie,
9, place des Vosges
75004 Paris
+33 (0)1 42 78 51 45
Open Tuesday to Saturday
Prices rank on average from 300€ to 350€ (drinks not included)
But did you eat there Pierre, we pass it regularly and friends who dined were extremely disappointed in food and service, since it is one of the costly ones we only like to go where we are guaranteed both.
I went there for a corporate event two years ago. Service was awesome, which of course is the least you can expect with this price range. However, it was a great experience!