Michelin Star Restaurants Paris – Le Pergolese
Mon 2 Apr 2018
Kobayashi
Michelin starred Le Pergolese is located in the posh 16th arrondisement just off of Avenue Foch. Many of its clientele live in the neighborhood and hold standing weekly reservations, so do book ahead. The dining room features a private room in the rear and works by contemporary artists.
photo by GourmetBangkok.com
The charming Lyonnais chef Stephane Gaborieau greeted us and visited each table over the course of the evening. While his childhood favorite is macaroni cheese with ham, he holds the prestigious title of MOF. Meilleur Ouvrier de France translates to Best Craftsman of France and is awarded for life- only to the very best chefs, sommeliers, jewelers, architects, from over 200 metiers who have passed rigorous exams.
The multi-course degustation dinner began with pink Champagne and an amuse-bouche of a savory crustacean emulsion hiding the salted cod flan below. Next came the trout gravlax on a bed of lemon cream. The aromas, textures and flavor combinations tantalized us all evening.
Our favorite was the perfectly seared, succulent scallops on a bed of creamy aioli and spinach vermicelli spiced up with black pepper. We marveled at how simple vermicelli could be so rich and satisfying. The white Aligote was served perfectly chilled.
The cod arrived in a cloud of saffron foam and shellfish garnished with zingy baby shiso leaves. Chef Gaborieau must’ve encountered the Japanese herb during one of his calm-seeking trips in Asia.
After refreshing our palates with pink grapefruit granite came another winner, tender pigeon breast served with sauce bordelaise made from port. The 2015 Chateau Pierrail the sommelier chose for us was the perfect match. The boeuf parmentier was also exceptional and paired beautifully with the red Bordeaux.
Two desserts, a pineapple confection followed by a delightful lemon tart.
The staff made us feel at home from the minute we walked in. They were professional, knowledgeable about the wine, cuisine, and spoke English.
Info: Prices run from 50E for lunch and from 85E for dinner. One of the few Michelin starred restaurants open Mondays. Valet service.
40 rue Pergolese
75116, Paris