Walking through the doors of Le Grand Véfour is like stepping back in time – but to a time when everything glittered and was good. The opulence here is breathtaking, from the delicate carved panelling to the roses and stucco garlands on the ceilings. Not to mention the glimmer of gold as far as the eye can see. But as luxurious as the present incarnation is, Le Grand Véfour has a history just as lauded, with the building itself being built in the 17th century. Many of the Parisian elite, from the circles of literature, politics and art have supped and socialised here over the years.

We could go on, after all, it’s a beautiful space. But that would be to miss the crux of any visit to Le Grand Véfour – the food. This is creative French haute cuisine, with a price tag to match. There are dishes like duck liver ravioli with truffle emulsion cream, and langoustines in pumpkin broth. Crispy sweetbreads with héliantis and sénevé seeds, and Dijon mustard. And a Manjari chocolate cube with guava and marshmallow, lemon sherbet, caramelized peanuts, and cookies. There are well-sourced French farm cheeses, and curated wines. All told, dining here is heady and hedonistic and historic; a triple threat by any reckoning.