After completing my reservation for La Réserve de Beaulieu, travel arrangements to La Réserve from Nice were in order. This is where the fun begins and my palate for refinement was teased. I knew this was going to be one of those “experiences of a lifetime” when the transport of choice from the concierge at La Réserve came in the form of: a Rolls Royce Ghost, a Bentley Flying Spur or a Mercedes Benz S Class. Wanting to stay somewhat close to home, I chose the latter and all was right with the world. One must be careful not to have all their dreams come true at once. Although the Ghost and Flying Spur were quite tempting – – next time for sure.
This landmark hotel known for its opulence, luxury, Michelin starred restaurant, amazing view and impeccable staff, turned out to be everything one could possibly hope for in the Côte d’Azur. Having spent my last two stays in the Côte d’Azur at La Chèvre d’Or and Vista Palace, this little slice of heaven on the water was ideal as the next seven days would be spent at sea.
April 14th
Arriving at La Réserve was worth the wait. Greeted with refined formality in the most relaxed atmosphere, the mood was set for what turned out to be one of the most memorable stays I’ve experienced in luxury lodging. Mr. Patrick DEBUIRE – – AWESOME & FLAWLESS, thank you. My three night stay was enhanced by another Michelin starred event, thanks to chef Dimitri Droisneau, whose flawless gastronomic skills require repeat performances, as once is never enough. I must put in writing a very special thank you to Diego and Catherine – – can you two be cloned? Your impeccable service is how I wish to spend every dining experience. Thank you for your well appointed service. What I found to be most enjoyable was what appeared to be my own personal “genie in a bottle”. I never encountered the genie but, whenever I returned to the room it was if I was arriving for the first time over and over again. Everything was perfect and in place. Meticulously clean and refreshing with soft, relaxing and inviting music in the air to accompany the priceless private ocean view. I also had a splendid view of the courtyard which never lacked inspiration and fascination. I shall call it “3rd floor paradise” as nothing seemed to interrupt La Réserve’s natural beauty. This view also included a picturesque partial showing of Cap Ferrat – – lunch at Sloop is why I love sea bass the way I do.
The following photos of this Côte d’Azur jewel has enticed a future visit. I do hope they inspire you to do the same and experience several days and nights wrapped in awe. If it is elegance, opulence and romance you seek, make time for La Réserve de Beaulieu. Be it a long and relaxing stay, an incredible dinner or a cocktail with live jazz in the bar, I promise you’ll never regret the encounter and your desire to live it again and again will linger. Meet me at the bar!!!!!
Now, the two treats that kept on giving – – Gordon Bennett Bar and Restaurant des Rois.
Here’s the divine menu chef Dimitri Droisneau wowed us with. I must apologize for not capturing these dishes digitally. The magic of the anticipated moment got me and I forgot the camera.
Gourmet Escape
“La Réserve’s” Appetizer
Foie Gras from the South West
Marbled terrine with dried red wine grapes,
Zesty cherry and radish, toasted brioche bread
Loctudy Lagoustine,
Roasted, sautéed forest mushrooms, aniseed shellfish foam,
Tartar tartlet with dill mousse
Turbot from our coast,
Steamed with seaweed, abalone and new potatoes,
<<Monsieur Gillardeau>> oysters in sea spray broth
Suckling Veal Noix,
Sautéed and draped in a viennoise of roasted sweetbreads,
Green asparagus from Vaucluse calabrese style, velvety Menton sauce
Mouthful of sweetness
Cuban Trinitario Cocoa bean 75%
Silky heart of Jivara, delicate floral honey nougatine,
Meadowseet ice-cream
Petits Fours
For a more information please click here: La Réserve de Beaulieu to visit the website.
Sagacious Palate 