Would you agree life basically consists of roads that twist, turn, wind, bump and surprise ?
Over this past year or so, I have experienced some major changes in my life that has taken time to adjust and accept the new challenges and opportunities that life presents at a given moment. I like to think of these changes or challenges as growth that is needed within myself and/or in those lives around me. My “at home” kitchen experiences have slowed down a little (ok…maybe quite a bit) while adjusting to change and new direction. My newest way of life has put me tableside at some very nice restaurants. This has been such a new and lovely experience. As a foodie, I crave all kinds of tastes, food pairings and presentations. To experience chefs talents helps add to my creative process in my kitchen.
I have always envisioned a part of Kitchen Moments to highlight local restaurants and happenings “Around Town”. As life happens and I learn to go with the flow, this is where I’m at…. “Around Town”. To share in others’ passions, knowledge, stories, food and drink creations brings an enthusiastic atmosphere that is contagious and inspiring to me.
Last Fall, I was escorted to a red faded riverfront building that sets on the Vermillion River in downtown Vermillion, Ohio. I guess one could say a traditional riverfront building. The building housed an upstairs café for a more casual dining experience. On the lower level, an inviting staircase decorated for the season, lead to the doors that opened to the majestic Chez Francois dining experience. The romantic, charming, old world atmosphere set the tone to highlight the extraordinary French food. Our waitress was pleasant, knowledgeable, helpful and shared an inviting smile that was comforting. I wanted to try everything of course!
My food dream began with the appetizers. The elegant white modern appetizer dishes set the tone for what I would be tasting (I have a thing for dishes)! To see scrambled eggs in a shell, that was perfectly cracked, and filled with a mind blowing creation filled me with even more excitement. The subtle earthy garnish of the exquisite black “Burgundy” truffle, white truffle oil and truffle butter added a smoothness and depth when paired with some simple ingredients such as scrambled eggs . You don’t eat scrambled eggs like that everyday!
The Truffle Cappuccino (a puree of fall wild mushrooms , black “burgundy” truffles and truffle butter, then topped off with steam cream) captivated my taste buds as if watching an enthusiastic choir sing in all their glory. A simple pause after every bite was needed to savor the taste.
The dinner menu had endless choices of the finest French cuisine. I chose one of the evening specials. An array of fresh seafood smothered in a delicate cream sauce. The lobster tail was taken out of its shell and presented with ease for my devouring 🙂 The scallops and shrimp were seared and cooked to perfection!
What’s crazy is that I didn’t experience any dessert! That’s almost disastrous in my world! I was soooooo full from the drinks and food. I’m thinking another visit to Chez Francois is needed to taste the dessert next!
Thank you Chez Francois [1]for such a lovely and delicious experience.