Nestled between a sub shop and a candy store on Park Ave is a small, elegant and fine
French cuisine restaurant called Cafe de France. The oldest single owned
restaurant on Park Ave. I had the pleasure to enjoy a decadent meal fit for a
king.
When I first walked in I noticed there was not much lighting
except for candles on every table which made the room very romantic, with jazz
playing in the background and pictures of France all over the walls. My server
knew so much about the menu, telling me the origins of some of the platters,
how they were made and the ingredients are always fresh because they are
delivered daily. He used such great
detail, I could picture every plate in my head as my mouth watered from each
description.
I started out with a French Martini and a creamy P.E.I. Mussels
Mariniere, next I enjoyed the Steak
Tartare and a Romain BLT Salad. Each platter looked as if it was a work of art.
The portions were perfect and I left completely full and satisfied.
I was honored to sit and talk to the owner, German Gutierrez.
He told me, he and his wife Dominique, have owned the cafe since 1982 and have
worked as a balanced team since. Her handling food orders while working lunch
and him beverage orders and dinner times. They change the menu at least twice a
year and are open Tuesdays through Saturdays for lunch, then close and reopen
for dinner. They also are available for private parties and may I say it would
be a lovely event space.
Cafe de France is hands down the best French cuisine I have had
since I visited France many, many, years ago. With a knowledgeable, friendly
staff and an even greater choice of food and wine, German and Dominique have
done it correctly. I encourage everyone to enjoy the ambience, the food, and
the charm of Cafe de France.
Nicholas Del Orbe
for About Town With Shel
