Le Petit Paris

Le Petit Paris delivers an opulent French dining experience with a grand ambiance, featuring tableside preparations and classic dishes that add a touch of drama

When it came time to choose a spot to meet my cousin Vale for dinner, I was eager to try something new. So, when Vale suggested Le Petit Paris, I eagerly browsed the menu and was immediately intrigued. The promise of French cuisine with a touch of drama sounded like the perfect recipe for an outstanding evening.

The restaurant’s dramatic ambiance was exactly the kind of vibe I appreciate, setting the stage for what I hoped would be an exceptional night.

We started our meal with the PROSCIUTTO PIZZA (tomato sauce, olive oil, mozzarella, basil, prosciutto). Paired with ESPRESSO MARTINIS, it felt like a promising beginning. The flavors were solid, and the atmosphere was undeniably grand.

Inspired by the theatrical presentation we witnessed at another table, we decided to order the COGNAC FLAMBEED TRUFFLE PASTA, prepared tableside in a wheel of Parmesan cheese. The anticipation built as the cart was wheeled over to us, and I was ready to be wowed.

Unfortunately, the experience took an unexpected turn. As our server prepared the dish, some of the flamed liquid splashed onto me. Her response? A half-hearted “sorry” before she continued swirling the pasta in the melting cheese and plating our dishes.

For the price we were paying—both for the meal and the valet service—I expected a higher level of attentiveness and care. It was a stark reminder of how much a server can influence the overall dining experience. The food itself was good, but the lack of genuine hospitality left a sour taste.

By the time we settled the check, both Vale and I were feeling decidedly “meh” about the whole experience. The dramatics were there, sure, but the service fell flat, and it dampened what could have been a truly special evening.

In fact, years later, when a friend suggested meeting at Le Petit Paris for dinner, I politely declined. That one experience was enough to leave a lasting impression. It’s a testament to the fact that who you hire matters just as much as the food you serve. Just like a Great White on Melrose, great dishes can only take you so far. Customer service is still key.

So, while Le Petit Paris had its moments, I left feeling conflicted about whether it was truly worth it. The lesson? A memorable dining experience isn’t just about the food or the ambiance—it’s about the people who bring it all together.

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