Hôtel Costes, a luxurious 5-star hotel and restaurant, sits proudly on the chic Rue Saint-Honoré in Paris. The Costes brothers, Jean-Louis and Gilbert, created this haven of elegance, with renowned architect and interior designer Jacques Garcia adding his signature touch. I’ve enjoyed many evenings in their inviting bar, complete with a cozy fireplace, sipping cocktails with friends. But my first dinner at Hôtel Costes was a recent treat, orchestrated by my friend Jo, who was hosting her brother and cousin for a visit. While we have our go-to Parisian eateries, we always welcome the chance to explore new culinary gems. So, we booked a table at Hôtel Costes.
Parisian Glamour Meets Service Quirks
The restaurant is known for its glamorous, chic atmosphere and the stunning, model-like waitresses. However, some guests criticize the service, calling it overrated and mediocre. I must admit, as a 5-star hotel, I expected a warm welcome, but our arrival was met with a group of high-heeled women seemingly engrossed in a reunion, completely oblivious to our presence. The hostesses appeared bored, and the girl who was supposed to take our coats was the epitome of lackluster – as was the hostess who led us to our table. While their high heels and short, revealing dresses might appeal to some, they did little to compensate for their lack of service.
A Saving Grace: Billy, the Delightful Waiter
Fortunately, our waiter, Billy, restored our smiles with his impeccable service. He spoke perfect English, translating the menu for Jo’s brother and cousin, and offering insightful recommendations. As a duck enthusiast, I immediately gravitated towards the Mandarina Crispy Duck. Before diving into our dishes, we savored a few cocktails. I was in the mood for something refreshing and opted for the Pretty in Pink, a delightful alcohol-free concoction.
A Feast for the Senses: Food and Ambiance
The Mandarina Crispy Duck arrived adorned with fresh parsley and a delectable sauce, a true delight! While the La purée de pommes de terre (mashed potatoes) left me wanting, it was just as underwhelming as the mashed potatoes at their sister restaurant, La Sociéte. The texture was simply too runny. Our table also enjoyed the Tigers Prawns Plancha, grilled to perfection and drizzled with fresh parsley and lime.
The desserts were the grand finale. Our eyes widened when Billy presented us with giant Pavlovas, a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to extravagance. These fluffy meringue masterpieces, piled high with whipped cream and a bounty of red berries, were truly a feast for the eyes and the taste buds. We also indulged in Cracker’s Cheesecake and L’éclair Caramel au Beurre Salé de Lignac, adding a touch of French elegance to our dessert experience.
A Parisian Indulgence
After this memorable dinner, I’ve returned to Hôtel Costes several times, which speaks volumes about my appreciation for the place. Yes, the food is pricey, averaging around 100€ per person (excluding drinks), but the quality and the experience are worth it. Hôtel Costes offers a unique blend of sophisticated ambiance, delicious food, and lively lounge music, creating the perfect setting for a special evening with good friends. For me, it’s a Parisian indulgence I wouldn’t hesitate to repeat.
