Langosteria is situated at The Cheval Blanc Paris. I only went in to get my hair done and needed somewhere to eat afterwards. That’s how I ended up having lunch here. This wouldn’t normally be the type of restaurant I’d book, but since I was here, I thought I’d give it a shot. Don’t expect much… Expect unreasonable prices for not a lot in return. The setting is nice though—being on the rooftop, with the Eiffel Tower in the distance, seated at an intimate table perfectly positioned for me to gaze out over the views of Paris. Everyone was taking photographs, standing right up to the glass to get those all-important shots. Yes, it feels touristy.
I didn’t particularly want to spend a lot of time here; I swiftly ordered a starter and main course and thought I’d be done with it. The prawn tartare had cheese on the dish— “I wonder whose idea that was,” I said to myself. I’m not sure how that works with those beautiful prawns. The plate did have the right amount of acidity, allowing them to shine. But the cheese, with a tartare? Why?
I chose the turbot, regretting it afterwards as it was expensive and nothing special. There were hints of saffron coming through, with some flavours inspired by risotto Milanese. The fish was cooked well, asparagus was sparse—one spear only, looking rather sad on top of the fish—yet it wasn’t bad for a quick lunch. However, ‘not bad’ does not justify the price. The breadcrumbs felt disconnected; I didn’t see the benefit of them. A bit of crunch? Texture? They were quite ordinary. Turbot doesn’t need a peasant crumb topping; it thrives alone, able to carry itself, it’s the king of the waters. You have just brought dishonour to it.
Langosteria is suited to lunchtime, but not for dinner—you won’t find me here in the evening. Merely a convenience, this meal is more about showing off and being seen, and being able to say you’ve been here, while taking selfies to the max—which is not my mentality whatsoever. I don’t see this as a serious place for food and it’s always about that first. Langosteria filled the gap when I needed it, but I’m not interested in eating here again. Been there, done that, got the T-shirt.
