Chateaubriand has been on my Paris restaurant list for a number of years.

The reviews are stellar. My reluctance has been it would be too French…stuffy, saucy, pretentious.

Oh la la…was I mistaken.

Chateaubriand is a simple bistro in a not trendy section of Paris that is infiltrated by both locals and tourists.

The 95 euro menu is presented without pretext or an actual menu…it is a verbal tableau.

Chef Iñaki Aizpitarte is a high profile chef offering a unique menu that changes with his inspiration and the seasons.

Hard working servers only ask if you have dietary restrictions or allergies….all issues are deftly handled.

Water preferences and wine determinations are dealt with immediately.

The sommelier is light and breezy and recommended a fabulous red from Languedoc, our favorite wine region.

The Gougeres (French cheese puffs) are dispensed tout de suite and are light as a feather with a hint of cheese.

The first course is a ceviche shooter with ginger overtones that heightens your tastebuds and readies you for an amazing meal.

Next is an oyster enveloped in fresh pickled ginger and other tasty elements.

Since no written details are divulged I will let you visually devour the 10 course feast:

The Scallops from Brittany are moist and tender with a divine squash purée.

Tne mushroom are heaven sent.

White Fish and Leeks are unbelievable.

Another Fish in place of Venison. The grilled Onions are indescribably fantastic.

Cheeses are sublime…Comte and a soft goat.

The dessert was one of the best ever and I have no inkling what it was comprised of. Creamy and delicious are the key elements.

Quelle surprise!

And, to end the meal, Clementines to cleanse the palate.

It was a glorious experience.

Chateaubriand 129 Avenue Parmentier Paris, France. Reservations advised.