This was my third time at L'Hedoniste in the 2nd and we ate with two new friends who it turns out publish the journal I'm the Editor of; I guess I should've guessed that from the name.
The male component of the couple asked me if the place looked much different from a bit over a year ago when I first came and I answered frankly that it did not; the Montorgueil neighborhood is still just as cool, the welcome is still just as warm and the offerings are still quite appealing and comprehensive.
I was the only one ordering a first; green asparagus, mackerel almost smoky tasting (in a nice way) with chopped veggies and a light sauce underneath. With the adequate bread, it was a wonderful start for me.
The ladies ordered a wild daurade for their mains while we guys had filets of veal with topnotch mushrooms, minipancakes and a slice of microtomed fried potato; everyone was very happy including me, despite having had an intense discussion of the doneness to be done to the veal - me, of course, wanting it raw, he saying that was simply not the way the chef made it and I'd love it rose, which I did, much to my chagrin.
The ladies terminated with a sable with lemon cream, pomegranate seeds, apple slices and minimeringues; ahhhright!
With a bottle of white to start and red to continue, bottled water (yes Dear Reader) and three coffees our meal came to $78.25 a couple.
Both fascinating wines, especially the Cotes du Marmandais--never seen the appellation before. Kind of stuff wine folks love to try. Thanks for labels.
Posted by: Bud Carlos | March 27, 2012 at 07:11 AM