9. Provence

I and my friend visited literally dozens of restaurants in New York over many years. Although I would never claim that we’ve developed a professional grade ability to comprehend quality of restaurant experience – I don’t care. Because this kind of experience is inherently subjective. We ate in Provence a week ago. First of all, service is not that great. The host was nice and accommodating. But the waiter was an incarnation of a stereotypical bad French waiter – not rude but brusque with no smile or a shadow of welcoming attitude. Drinks were served promptly but you had to repeat request for water several times in order to conquer you thirst. They use PDA now to take orders, which is fine with me – I love gadgets. Nevertheless, it still looks a little awkward in an establishment that tries to project an image of a tradition, including waiter speaking with French accent. Back to PDA – it didn’t help either time wise. Main course was late. As for food…Seared Foie Gras was pretty good. Bouillabaisse was decent but not the best in town – a little too plain for aroma and taste. And a funny thing is that my friend doesn’t remember what he had for the main course – this is how memorable the thing was. We were NOT offered desert menu. But because we wanted to get out of there quick anyway it is a sin to complain. And the best things are the matches – they have the lavender crumbles glued to the cover.

My trip to Provence was not just a meal; it was a transporting experience! Aside from the great food, the service was impeccably gracious and the back garden a great hideaway on less crowded nights. I'll come back again and again!