Let me tell you, I'm not the kind of girl who's on the look-out for the lastest trendy spot to open in town, but one day, a friend of mine asked me if I wanted to go with her to the grand opening of a new restaurant-bar. The lure of free drinks and novelty got me, and I said yes. Dressing up was not the easiest part - hey, it was their opening, I had to make an effort! And who knows who was going to be there?
When we got to the place, the tone was already set - a beautiful turn-of-the-century maison de maitre. We were escorted by a lady dressed in strict and sleek black outfit with a telephonist's earpiece. I got the point. it was a concept. When we got in, I was submerged by the outpouring of dark red velvet and purple accents. I didn't know what to think. I used to like extravaganza when I was 8, but for old time's sake, I decided that it was quite beautiful in its own way. The waitresses where all dressed in a tight black sweater and miniskirt - and the headpiece again! I still think it’s off-putting.
But I hadn't seen the little intimate room facing the street, a very rococo area! A sky-painted ceiling, heavy draperies everywhere, candle light . . . romantic indeed.
The food? It's fusion. I only had a cocktail, but took a look at the menu: you can find Belgian-French fare mixed with Asian and Middle Eastern dishes or ingredients. It sounded yummy, but the price wasn't.
Verdict: For those who like this kind of place, you'll love it. I must admit that I kind of liked the separate room. Would I go back if it was up to me? Not sure . . .