Du Cote des Olivades - Paradou

Beautiful and romantic terrace, unfortunately with disturbing music and a host who talks too much. Although the fish of the main course was excellent as a side dish we had two spoons of mashed potatoes and the dessert was disappointing. The price/quality relation was rather bad!

Upon entering the restaurant's lovely terrace we were quite enchanted, though it was to be short lived. Our server came to take our order approximately 4 minutes after we were seated; we requested two minutes to make our choice while we enjoyed our aperitif, exactly 45 seconds later (at 8:15) we were informed we needed to choose now. Luckily considering the menu only included 3 items for each course the choice was quickly made. The wine steward almost listened to what we wanted before making a throwaway suggestion. By this point we were fairly negatively disposed to the restaurant, though it was almost saved by the cuisine. The food was surprisingly good, not exceptional, but solid. The carpaccio of st Jacques was well seasoned, if a bit too warm and the meats were generally well cooked. As a table we all agreed that while the food was generally well executed, if a bit lacking in excitement, none of us would return. In a region with fabulous food and excellent service this restaurant definitely fell short.

The food was outstanding but the service and atmosphere was a bit off. I think It probably had something to do with the fact that we didn't speak French because the restaurant seemed to be full with friends and family of the chef and manager who were having a wonderful time. I was also disappointed that the chef made the effort to visit all tables except ours wich was a real shame and made us feel less important than the other guests, again probably because of our lack of Knowledge with the French language. Although this seems to be expected in France I did expect more from such a top rated restaurant. The sommelier was however friendly and made some good choices, he seemed to really take the time and make an effort.

What should have been a delightful romantic evening turned into a nightmare. Don’t expect to be allowed to enjoy your evening. The proprietor is there to show off his universal knowledge of cooking and ingredients and makes his round of all the tables just to make sure all can have the privilege of his science. I have no need of this kind of invasive know-it-all and when I am in conversation at my table, I expect the Maître to understand and adapt. Prices are nowhere in relation to quality nor quantity served. Please allow me to go elsewhere where I am treated as a guest and not as a cow to be milked of every available euro. Adieu!

Petit repas en famille aux Olivades : accueil chaleureux du belge maître des lieux, petite coupette au salon, puis repas savoureux... Service impeccable, sourire et gentillesse : je recommande !