Retail and Food…nirvana.

L’Avenue, the Paris outpost from Jean-Louis and Gilbert Costes’ fabulous fashion canteen on Avenue Montaigne, has opened in Manhattan’s Saks Fifth Avenue.

The entrance is located on East 50th Street where you are met by a host who checks you in and then summons the elevator to whisk you away to the 9th floor.

The dramatic approach to L’Avenue is down a long, moody corridor flanked by drapes and stained glass windows.

You enter a bright, honey-colored expansive dining space designed by renowned architect and designer, Philippe Starck.

Light is streaming in through windows that overlook Rockefeller Center.

Glass vitrines filled with the latest fashion items serve as room dividers while reminding diners of what’s in store a few floors down.

We were a bit early so we sat at the bar and drank a lovely Cremant which was accompanied by Cerignola olives and almonds.

We were eventually seated in the center of the room  with a view of the goings on.

Our server was lovely.

Warm bread and french butter was presented.

We veered off course and ordered martinis after the Cremant…such a wild and crazy couple (Grey Goose $21, Ketel One $16).

Our meal kicked off with delicious Escargot which were tricky to manipulate…I thought I was reliving the scene from Pretty Woman as my grasp on the tongs was tenuous ($25).

We also shared a fabulous Avocado and Tuna Tartar ($26).

We selected the Miso Salmon for our entree which was perfectly prepared ($34).

We indulged in a side of whipped Mashed Potatoes ($8).

For dessert, the Coupe Satine was highly recommended.

Invented by acclaimed pastry chef and chocolatier, Pierre Herme, the dessert consists of passion fruit, cream cheese, Orange coulis and Chantilly cream.

The unique dessert was absolutely fabulous ($18).

Ashley gifted us with a delectable chocolate tray because it was our actual anniversary.

L’Avenue spans two floors.

Down an elegant spiral staircase is Le Chalet, a bar and lounge below L’Avenue sporting an apres-ski style interior, serving cocktails and light bites.

The only exit from the bar was through the Saks Shoe Salon which whet my appetite even after a delicious meal.

L’Avenue is lovely and a perfect place for Ladies Who Lunch especially after a grueling morning of retail therapy.

L’Avenue 8 East 50th Street New York City. Open Monday-Saturday 10am-8:30pm and Sunday 11am-7pm. Reservations on Resy.