A Holiday Treat La Grenouille

Because of the holidays I thought I'd write about the Times Dining section today on Wednesday (which kind of makes sense because it comes out today). Another new thing is that I'll be writing about a Times restaurant review (something I used to do for that newspaper ) for La Grenouille that famous Manhattan landmark.

The review written by Sam Sifton tells about this 48 year old NYC institution. La Grenouille was right up there at one time with The Russian Tea Room and Elaine's as place to be seen and to enjoy the lush food. It was opened in 1962 by Giselle and Charles Masson, pere, French emigres and now run by their son Charles fils. This is French cusine at its' all time best, meriting a three star rating from The Times. The restaurant is known for its' stocks and sauces that transport everyday meats and vegetables into fare for the gods. There are frogs legs, bien sur, ("La Grenouille means frog)sauteed in garlic, parsley and butter. Another true Parisian dish are the kidneys sauteed in cognac. Dover sole is a must here and La Grenouille's signature dish. It's grilled and then served in a butter sauce. Tableside it's filleted for diners and served with a mustard sauce. This is a meal fit for Monsieur Escoffier.

La Grenouille also has amazing desserts. primarily the souffles. These come in Grand Marnier, chocolate and pear. The restaurant also has the classic tartins as well. There's also a heavenly sounding tarte with warm apples and accompanied by vanilla ice cream. La Grenouille also has Armagnac prune ice cream as well as vanilla and praline. (although after a rich meal , I think dessert would be a simple and soothing cup of Earl Grey tea from the restaurants varied tea chest)

This holiday season treat yourself to dinner at this famed NYC landmark. It's worth the travel time and the cost. This is where France comes to America and brings a gift of heavenly dishes and desserts.