A Sophisticated Symphony of Flavour and Hospitality - Maison, Paris.

Priced at €85 per person (with an additional €2 per guest for water), the tasting menu unfolded with the kind of poise and precision that speaks of a confident kitchen and a well-drilled front of house. Upon arrival, we were warmly greeted and seated in a discreet corner offering an expansive view of both the dining room and the open kitchen—an architectural touch enhanced by a glass ceiling that lent the space gentle daylight, though overall the ambiance veered toward the moody and subdued. Service commenced swiftly and smoothly, with allergies noted and still water poured before the first plate arrived: grilled asparagus with taramasalata and bay leaves. The taramasalata—creamy, nuanced, and unmistakably fresh—ranked among the finest I’ve sampled in recent memory. The asparagus, with its tender core and charred exterior, offered a satisfying contrast in texture and a harmonious marriage with the smoky, saline dip. Among a progression of dishes that included a subtle and intriguing white asparagus with sea urchin, it was the meat courses that stood tallest. The guinea fowl, in particular, was an exemplar of expert cookery—succulent and impeccably seasoned, accompanied by mushrooms that lent an earthy counterpoint, exploding with umami and depth. Dessert brought an olive oil ice cream paired with seasonal cherries and berries—a clever and balanced finale, simultaneously sweet and refreshing. This was followed by optional tea and coffee service, with a delightful coda of complimentary crepes and chocolate-coated hazelnuts—an elegant touch. Throughout, service was pitch-perfect: informed, attentive, and never intrusive. Each course was introduced with care, and staff were quick to assist with requests while maintaining a courteous distance. In sum, this was a meal of clear ambition and flawless execution. It is genuinely surprising that this restaurant has not yet been awarded a Michelin star; it not only holds its own among several one-star establishments I’ve visited, but in some respects exceeds even those with two. An exceptional value for the quality on offer—and an experience I would urge any discerning diner to seek out.#travel #couplestrip #thingstodo #myitinerary #localfood #food #paris Address - Maison, 3 Rue Saint-Hubert, 75011 Paris Avg. Price per Person - €90 Rating - 5/5