We had lunch back in December at Glou in the Marais district and loved the upstairs all glass view of the Picasso Museum across the street, so the other day when we made new friends in the Bourdeaux countryside, it was our first choice to meet them at for dinner. Their hotel and ours were a mere 25 minute or less walk, so it just made sense.
We entered and they were already seated in a cozy booth at the downstairs rear, and while there was no view, it was quiet (unlike the very crowded and noisy upstairs as at lunch) and we were quite happy.
Our server Lilion was a gem and very helpful as we tried to get through the wine list helping us to choose a Saint Veran 2022 Ovoide "La Soufrandiere" that was a magnificent chardonnay to start. Last time I had the magnificent Tartare de Veau Basque (Veal Tartare Basque style) which both Will and Francis chose. I would have but the seeded crackers would not be friends with my diverticulitis! Christine chose L'Oeuf to start and Lilion said I must have the Rilettes de Canard au piment d'Espalette which was a huge portion (must have been 2/3 pound) which I eagerly shared with everyone on the superb thick crusty bread.
After a nice break and some tales of our recent travels we went on to a Maranges 1er Cru "La fussiere" 2022 from Bachelet-Monnot. I knew this was a nice, medium-bodied Bourgogne Pinot Noir but had never heard of Maranges and was thrilled that Lilion suggested it. It was amazing with my Pintade fermiere rotie sauce forestiere (Free range guinea-fowl with mushroom sauce) that was cooked perfectly and indeed a portion that would have fed two. Will and Francis again had the same Entrecote de Boeuf Holstein affinee 21 jours, or basically the 21-day ages Steak-frites. They said the edges were chewy, but the center superb and tender. Christine got the monster sized portion of Poulpe grille (grilled octopus) which was a tad chewy but very tasty.
There was no way we could eat dessert after these huge portions, so we chatted more and waddled off to our respective hotels, hoping that we would see our newfound friends again in the near future..somewhere.
