since the exciting news earlier this year that philippe mouchel was back, i've been waiting for the perfect occasion to dine at philippe and tonight was the night. as you walk down the stairs into the restaurant, you are greeted by the sight of the rotisserie and meats - indeed, the decor and atmosphere is classic and quintessentially français.
i was absolutely impressed by the knowledge, attention to detail, skill and most importantly passion of all the staff - from the person greeting us at the door, to our waiters for the night and of course monsieur mouchel himself. despite a busy friday night, he took the time to greet and talk to every single diner at every table throughout the night - it may seem like a little thing but it certainly added a great deal to what was already an exquisite evening. it was lovely to also see him looking over everything to come out of the kitchen and add a little touch of finesse here and there, as well as serving guests too! as for the food - divine as usual! the beetroot cured king salmon was a particular jewel of the menu, as was the chocolate fondant! every dish was perfectly put together - not only a delicious meal, but a piece of art as well. i cannot speak highly enough of philippe - surely one of the gems in melbourne's ever-growing dining scene.