Hôtel Costes is a luxurious haven nestled on the chic Rue Saint-Honoré, a street renowned for its high-end boutiques and fashionable charm. This iconic Parisian establishment, the brainchild of the Costes brothers (Jean-Louis and Gilbert Costes), exudes elegance with its interior design masterfully crafted by the esteemed architect and designer Jacques Garcia.
While I’ve enjoyed the cozy allure of their fireplace-lit bar on several occasions, sharing cocktails with friends, my inaugural dinner experience at Hôtel Costes occurred just a few weeks ago. My friend Jo’s brother and cousin were in town for a visit, and we yearned for a unique Parisian dining experience. Although Paris boasts a plethora of exceptional restaurants, we decided to venture into the unknown, reserving a table at this glamorous destination.
Glamour and Service: A Tale of Two Extremes
Hôtel Costes is often described as a blend of glamour and chic, where supermodel-esque waitresses add to the allure. However, the whispers of overrated food and mediocre service from some patrons aren’t entirely unfounded.
As a five-star hotel, I anticipated a warm and welcoming reception. However, our arrival was met with a less-than-enthusiastic greeting. A group of high-heeled hostesses engaged in a lively conversation, seemingly oblivious to our presence. Their bored demeanor and lack of warmth were a stark contrast to the expected five-star hospitality. The hostess tasked with taking our coats was equally indifferent, offering a lukewarm welcome. It seemed their high heels and revealing dresses were more notable than their service.
A Savior in the Form of Billy
Fortunately, our fortunes changed when we encountered our waiter, Billy. He was a breath of fresh air, radiating warmth and professionalism. He effortlessly put us at ease, ensuring a delightful dining experience. His perfect English was a blessing, allowing him to eloquently translate the menu for Jo’s brother and cousin. Billy’s knowledge of the menu was impressive, offering insightful recommendations that enhanced our dining experience.
A Culinary Journey through Parisian Delights
My love for duck led me to the Mandarina Crispy Duck, a delectable choice that met all my expectations. Its crispy skin, topped with fresh parsley and a flavorful sauce, was a testament to culinary excellence. Before diving into our main courses, we indulged in a selection of cocktails. Opting for a non-alcoholic choice, I selected the Pretty in Pink cocktail, a sweet and refreshing treat.
While the Mandarina Crispy Duck was a triumphant culinary experience, the purée de pommes de terre (mashed potatoes) fell short of expectations. Its overly liquid consistency was a far cry from the creamy texture I had enjoyed at their other restaurant, La Société.
Our culinary adventure continued with the Tigers Prawns Plancha, their delicate flavor enhanced by the fresh parsley and lime topping.
Sweet Indulgences and a Final Verdict
The dessert menu at Hôtel Costes is a veritable sweet symphony, and we couldn’t resist indulging in the Pavlova. The arrival of these giant pavlovas was a welcome surprise, their beauty and sheer size captivating our hearts. The Italian meringue, whipped cream, and abundance of red berries created a symphony of flavors that was truly divine.
My first dinner at Hôtel Costes left a lasting impression. Despite the initial service hiccups, the intimate ambiance, lovely décor, and captivating lounge music combined with the delicious food and exceptional service from Billy created an unforgettable dining experience. While the pricey nature of the restaurant (around 100€ for dinner, drinks not included) may not be for everyone, it’s a perfect destination for those seeking a luxurious and unforgettable Parisian experience.
