Paris Report: La Cristal Room by Baccarat

If you are a Gossip Girl fan, you would probably remember the double date that Blair and Serena went on in Paris. The restaurant is 'La Cristal Room Baccarat', and it is located within the Baccarat Building on Place des Etats-Unis.

Lou Dillon made an appearance as herself in the same episode.

For this trip, I decided to have lunch there to check out the food, as well as the gallery museum. I was very impressed with the interior design, as well as the excellent service and amazing food. If you are in Paris, you should check out this restaurant.

The restaurant is actually the former dining room of Marie-Laure de Noailles (1902-1970) and sits about 40 pax at each seating. Designed by Philippe Starck, the interior is a modern and daring interpretation of the old French style, elaborately decorated with Baccarat crystals. The restaurant is helmed by Guy Martin, the famous Michelin-rated chef, together with David Angelot.

Starter: Marinated anchovies, guacamole with yuzu zest
I love the beautiful presentation.

Starter: Foie gras and kumquat jelly

Main: Scallops with fregola sarda, and lime butter

Main: Lamb with beetroot and potatoes

Dessert: Chestnut cake with chocolate mousse

Complimentary dessert: Kiwi and mascarpone cheese mousse

After lunch, we visited the Gallery Museum next door (complimentary entry for diners). The gallery is small and is worth visiting only if you are dining at the restaurant or if you are within the vicinity.

Nature has always been a source of inspiration for Baccarat creations and what greeted us at the entrance of the gallery was a magnificent sight of a stuffed imperial stag wandering between two candelabras.

The adjourning main room houses four display cabinets with crystal artifacts from the past to the present.

For more information and online reservation, please visit www.baccarat.com