We were accosted by an Aussie who heard our accents while browsing in a book store, she is here in Lyon visiting her God daughter and was very excited to find us, her name was Nicki.
We headed to my favourite bouchon, La Mere Cottivet, for Fran's farewell dinner. The dining-room was cosy and welcoming and it was not long before it was filled with happy diners, us included. The French onion soup was silky and golden, topped with bread and bubbling cheese. The sweetness of the onions had developed beautifully and the pieces of onion which swam in the liquid were tender and lovely.
I introduced Fran to the Lyonnais specialty of quenelles in nantua sauce, she agreed they were a delight. Alex loved them so much he finished mine as well as his own. My wine, again from Macon, was gently sweet, Alex was introduced to limonade with grenadine which he loved, (so did I).
Alex just could not pass up the praline tarte for dessert. The last time I had eaten at La Mere, I had quietly decided that there Creme Brulee was the best I have ever experienced. A big statement because previous to La Mere's my heart belonged to a little Parisian Bistro when it came to this favourite. Tonight confirmed that La Mere has taken the prize and is officially number one in the Creme Brulee stakes. Take a bow chef Yannick. Fran concurred.
We walked most of the way home until we had crossed Pont Guillotiere for the last time with Fran, we were all arm in arm remembering the fun we have shared. It was a gorgeous night. Our trusty velovs drove us home once again. Thanks for the memories Fran X.
