Le Cirque, Lyon, France

Le Cirque, Lyon, France
Friday 27 July, 2001

Entering Le Cirque is like entering a circus tent - the walls are covered in circus memorabilia, the tables are painted with images ringmasters and animals and the plates are also themed. It is a light hearted, fun place and not surprisingly it draws in families and groups.

I liked the atmosphere from the moment I arrived - it brings out the child in you. The staff are brightly dressed and are loyal to the theme with their humour.

I enjoyed a variation on gazpacho for entree that was delicious and devoured a Moroccan chicken dish for main that came with a cous cous stuffed capsicum. The dessert was by far the main attraction - gelato with a massive stick of fairy floss and a side bowl of lollies - every kids dream!

It was very reasonable for the servings offered and it's great fun. If you are looking for something a little different, Le Cirque should be at the top of your list.

Pierre Orsi, Lyon, France

Pierre Orsi, Lyon, France
Thursday 26 July, 2001

How can you visit France and not dine at a Michelin star restaurant? Pierre Orsi has two Michelin stars and is largely viewed as the only restaurant worth visiting in Lyon.

I was very excited about this experience and it lived up to every expectation. Upon arrival you are treated like a star as the staff attend to your every need and guide you through the fabulous restaurant - glass cabinets, gold mirrors and rich drapes - it is warm and inviting.

The food was amazing - I started with their speciality ravioli with truffles and it was spectacular. For main I enjoyed the beef fillet that was cooked to my specifications - medium rare.

The wine was also magnificent - I splashed out on a bottle of Saint Joseph 1999 J. Vidal Fluery - very, very good.

To finish I ordered off the cheese board and took the suggestions of the pleasant staff - I could hardly fault any aspect of this restaurant - it was superb.

http://www.pierreorsi.com/#

Savours et Salon, Paris, France

Savours et Salon, Paris, France
Tuesday 24 & Wednesday 25 July, 2001

I loved this place - it was across the road from my fabulous boutique hotel, Le Tronchet & I went there my first night by recommendation. After a wonderful experience on the first night I decided to return the next night.

The atmosphere at Savours et Salon was relaxed even though the decor was quite formal. The staff were pleasant and the menu was inviting, even though I ended up ordering the same thing two nights in a row:

- Gazpacho
- Fillet mignon
- Creme brulee

Why did I enjoy this place so much? When you are travelling on your own - the dining experience can be daunting. What a relief to find a restaurant that seemed to cater to single travellers/ business people. All of the tables in the front dining room were filled with single diners - there was no issue with it & the staff were professional and respectful.

The food was delicious and if I had stayed any longer, I would probably have returned for a third night.