Les Enfants Terribles is a real hidden gem in Paris, just off the Champs-Élysées and the Arc de Triomphe.
Paying homage to Jean Cocteau’s 1929 novel, Les Enfants Terribles references the artist, poet and author’s whimsical signature and iconic line drawing. Les Enfants Terribles also boasts a suitably literary address, on the corner of rue Byron and rue Balzac, previously owned by legendary French singer, Johnny Hallyday.
Part of Sibuet hotels & spas, Les Enfants Terribles Paris opened following the success of the original Les Enfants Terribles at Hôtel Mont-Blanc in the chic ski resort, Megève. This was a clever move, as Parisians can relive holiday memories of the mountains when back in the city.
The carved wood Alpine touches have been replaced with a typically Parisian Haussmann look, however the same irreverent sense of fun and drama and open-plan kitchen are there.
I caught up with my Parisian friend Coralie over a typically long dinner at Les Enfants Terribles – we were the last to leave, as usual.
The charming manager of the restaurant offered to make us a tasting menu of our favourite dishes. I loved it that we were able to choose the selection of dishes from the menu, rather than leaving it in the hands of the chef – it was a real treat.
We started with a glass of Champagne and a slate of of pre-dinner nibbles – red tuna, salmon and Black Tiger prawns. I particularly enjoyed the plump prawns with a light and crispy coating and delicious soy and citrus dipping sauce.
Next came an amuse-bouche of thick asparagus soup topped with light crème fraîche. It was fresh, colourful, spring-like and full of taste.
Our first starter was Green asparagus from Provencal gardens with a citrus fruit dressing and garden herb sabayon (€24). The asparagus was incredibly fresh and cooked to perfection. The garden herb sabayon was light and creamy, with a good hint of acidity – a delicious start to the meal.
From the ‘must-haves’, we tried the Risotto Carnaroli with Parmesan Reggiano (€28). The risotto was perfectly al dente, creamy and thick, with a light foam and rocket.
Our next tasting dish was a main course from the ‘Bastide de Marie’ menu – John Dory, roasted skin-side down, ratatouille, confit tomatoes and Piquillo peppers (€38). The fish was meaty and succulent, with rich Provençal-style vegetables and a smoky, creamy foam.
The presentation of the dish was impressive and well-considered yet not too fussy.
The Farm-reared chicken, spit-roasted with Grenaille potatoes (€28) was a real highlight. The juicy, succulent chicken came with crispy, golden skin and soft, roasted Grenaille potatoes. It was finished with a rich jus and a few sprigs of fresh thyme and rosemary.
As if that wasn’t enough, our chicken was accompanied by the most incredibly delicious Potato Purée with Truffles (€18). Laden with butter, garlic and aromatic truffles, the potato purée was dense, smooth and rich. I loved that it came served in its own little cooking pot and could have easily devoured it all, however dessert was still to come.
For dessert, I tried the simply named Chocolate Dark and White (€14). I enjoyed the dark chocolate mousse base, almond crisp chocolate pieces, yuzu swirls and the brandy snap nest, however, there was a little too much fresh cream on top.
Coralie tried the Yuzu and wild strawberry milkshake (€12). The strawberry milkshake, with a layer of strawberry compote, was refreshing and light (apart from the thick layer of cream). It was an interesting and almost child-like alternative to rich, chocolatey desserts.
We finished with some delicious coconut macarons and hazelnut chocolates filled with ice cream.
Les Enfants Terribles is a rare find in the 8e arrondissement. It combines innovative, beautifully presented food with elegant decor, a calm ambiance and friendly, unpretentious service. The warm, attentive staff really looked after us, and everyone in the restaurant, making us feel cared for and very much at home.
Chérie City was a guest of Les Enfants Terribles
Photos by Chérie City (interior images by Les Enfants Terribles – Paris / F. Ducout & DR)
You Might Also Like