Chez Mathilde

Description:

• Opulence and first-rate French cuisine make Mathilde a superb choice for special occasions. The restaurant was majorly renovated in 2007; those who expect to see its classically elegant ambience and formal venue will be surprised yet impressed by the two sleek, modern, and artistic new dining venues. As you make your way into the back room, the white piano and tablecloths are softened by the diffused light from enormous gold floor lamps reminiscent of the Statue of Liberty's torch, rattan chairs, and warm beige floor tiles. The green and red of the freshly cut bird-of-paradise arrangements are well represented in the large modern oil paintings that occupy the walls. A classic French Fusion menu is served complete with table-side preparation of salads and crepes. The front dining room has been transformed into Bistro M; a somewhat less opulent but equally elegant dining option. Black tablecloths and colorful suede couches are more vivid than the digital images of paintings by the likes of Renoir and van Gogh that adorn the walls in a continual slide show displayed on gilt-framed flat-panel screens. Two things that have not changed are the outstanding array of wines in the perfectly cooled wine cellar and the outstanding food available in both rooms. Appetizers include Beluga caviar, escargot, and beef carpaccio. The Dover sole, which is sautéed in butter with lemon, baby carrots, grilled zucchini, and almond potato, is filleted at your table. You can also feast on Chateaubriand, rack of lamb, Kobe beef, or ostrich. For dessert, the crème brûlée or soufflé are bested only by the crepes. Finish with an espresso, cappuccino, or a café mathilde (espresso with Kahlúa and a dash of cognac topped with fresh whipped cream and cinnamon) or some homemade chocolates and a cognac.

• © Frommer's 2013

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Very Highly Recommended 2010