Le Vallauris

I had made dinner reservations at this restored historical landmark in Palm Spring, California  as suggested by my college friend Cindy.  She has always wanted to go to this french restaurant in her college days but never got around to it. A close friend of hers lived around the corner. This restaurant has been in existence for over 30 years. I quickly checked my zagat guide book to see how it was rated. A "26" for food, "27" for decor and "26" for service.  Not bad.

Our timing was perfect. Last night was the night they erected the 26ft. Marilyn Monroe statue in Palm Springs. To our surprise, it was on the same block of Le Vallauris. That was a bonus.

We were escorted by Olivier the maitre d'  (who resembled a movie star we all know; I'll leave it up to you to figure it out) to an outside patio that was enchanting.  The temperature outside was in the high 90's but it was quite pleasant since they had air condition outside.

Cindy and I decided to go for the prix fixe menu. The price was a very reasonable $58 per person. Our server, James should give a course on how to be a server at fine dining establishments.  He was the best.

For mise en bouche: we had ahi tuna tartar in a cone, pate maison: both very good and chilled carrot and curry soup which was deeelicious.
We had a choice of appetizers and we both ordered the cauliflower salad with chilled bay scallops. It was so simple and refreshing. Nothing overpowered the scallops.

I ordered the pan seared beef filet with stuffed portobello. I was hoping Cindy would order the sauteed prawns with lobster sauce so I can try it but she was also in the mood for beef.  The steaks were cooked to perfection with just the right amount of sauce.

While we were having our dinner, Olivier kept checking on us to make sure everything was to our satisfaction. Later on, another gentleman approached our table to say hello who was the owner's brother.  We both told him how very pleased we were with everything.

Dessert was an easy decision. We both settled for the chocolate volcano with pistachio ice cream. I thought for sure this would be their downfall. How can everything be very good?  I am pleased to say this volcano lived up to its name. It erupted in our mouths like no other volcano. For chocolate lovers, this is it!

The next time I am anywhere near Palm Springs, I promise the gods I will stop by Le Vallauris to have dinner.