The French like to sleep in and stay out late. I was downstairs at Paul for coffee at 705 am and they were closed! So, at a brisk 9 C, I took a walk along what we have dubbed as “train street.” Officially called Rue Fondaudege, it was eerily empty.

Finally, I locate La Maison Du Cafe and order up a cafe latte and a croissant. I have never understood the love for croissants. Bland, dry and not worth the carbs. Croissants are different in France! So very different. It was light, buttery.. It melted in my mouth much like a Krispy Kreme.. (Oh so American..)

I stopped again at the marche to get some snacks. I wandered the aisles this time to soak up the differences. Crazy the differense. The cabbage looks fake. The eggs are at room temperature. The selection (and price) of prosucitto was earth shattering. There was an entire aisle of thinly shaved meats and the prices were 1/4 of the US.

One of the must sees of Bordeaux is the Water Mirror. Everything is within walking distrance! We were disappointed with this, but I believe in winter it is not displayed. We walked aimlessly looking for dinner. We saw Tante Charlotte and I remembered reading rave reviews. We stood outside trying to figure out where the door was. .  We called, but no answer. We were going to leave… But, Kyle saw the potential.. We could see the guests, but the door handle was hidden. Finally, he sees it and we are in. No reservations, but we are seated promptly in the most romantic quiest corner of the restaurant. Candles burning everywhere and music softly in the background.

We order the fixed menu and decide on Oeuf parfait and Camembert cheese. Then, the duck and veal for main courses. The Oeuf (egg) parfait is delicious! When the yolk breaks it adds a creaminess that is divine. The Camembert cheese is so smooth and creamy, but I have already had my fill of cheese.

 

Main course is outstanding! I venture to say that the duck is the best meal ever. It is perfectly cooked, tender, with the fat on top crispy. Out of this world. The veal was mediocre. But, the duck was so good, how could anything compare…

No room for dessert and we were content walking down this vacant street to our hotel with our bellies full from a delicious meal. Only Day 3 and so many more memories!!