"Our AirBNB host recommended L'Essentiel as a fine dining experience, and since he knows the town, we went with his recommendation. We didn't have a reservation, but got decidedly lucky, nabbing a table outside in the lovely garden area. The one English-speaking waitress of the evening and an English menu assisted us with the meal. I'm honestly not quite sure how the menu worked in terms of what was included or not, but we both had an amuse-bouche (a small complimentary appetizer from the chef), a real appetizer, entree (chicken, fish), and dessert. And also a pre-dessert (which seems like a fine idea). The pacing was just right - a bit leisurely, but not enough to have us itching with impatience. The patio was fairly quiet but lively, and just right on a warm summer evening. Though I'm mostly a "chocolate only" dessert lover, the trio of desserts featuring raspberries (with some chocolate) was spectacular visually, and the taste, particularly of the spun cotton-candy-like dish, was intense.We hadn't been sure we'd end up here, and in my opinion, we were underdressed for the beauty of the place and the other customers (I was wearing black Italian pants that are fine for travel but still seemed too casual for here). Had I planned ahead, it would have included a dressier top or even a summer dress or skirt. Ties not needed, but this isn't the spot for grunge, that's for sure."
Tarte Au Citron Vert
