For the first time in my LIFE, I ate at a restaurant on Christmas Eve! First, Jan and Les came over for a drink.
We always have such fun with them!
We took a short ride to Palm Springs to Le Vallauris Restaurant. We had reservations on the patio (we were warm and cozy with the patio heaters) where the trees are hung wit huge tumbleweeds sprayed white, and covered with white lights. It is a magical setting. They are EVERYWHERE!
The first courses included Jan's smoked duck with a confit of eggplant and orange marmalade,
Les and Brad's spicy sashimi ahi tartar:
but best of all was my foie gras ravioli in parmesan cream with truffle oil reduction!
For our entrees, Les had a traditional turkey dinner (not pictured), Jan and Brad had roasted duck with sweet potato puree, rhubarb compote and a reduction of black pepper and honey.
I was very pleased with my grilled lamb filet mignon with mint, garlic and olive oil, served with spinach and fingerling potatoes.
Desserts:
Trio of creme brulee (vanilla, berry and espresso):
Tulip of fresh berries:
and my pear and caramel ice cream yule log cake:
We had a wonderful dinner!
Comments (4)
It does sound/look like a wonderful dinner. Your friend, Jan, must like duck. I do too! All the selections look delicious.
Posted by Eden | December 27, 2009 8:46 AM
Posted on December 27, 2009 08:46
Looks wonderful-glad you had such a great evening.
Posted by janie | December 27, 2009 9:32 AM
Posted on December 27, 2009 09:32
It looks like a very festive evening!
Posted by nancyhol | December 27, 2009 9:31 PM
Posted on December 27, 2009 21:31
your outing looks great. We are coming to the Palm Desert area and wanted to know if you could recommned a great Hot Springs resort or spa to get some R&R. We have a busines trip coming up and have done some research but all look like the same.
Thanks for your help.
Posted by cigale utley | December 28, 2009 3:56 AM
Posted on December 28, 2009 03:56