I Tried the Best Restaurant in the World – Guy Savoy

Last weekend I had the opportunity to visit Paris for the “Retromobile” exhibition, an absolute delight for car enthusiasts. The exhibition showcased classic cars, vintage automobiles, and rare vehicles, offering a glimpse into the fascinating history of automotive design and engineering. For example, Schumacher’s personal F355 Ferrari was on sale.

I also visited the recently renovated Notre Dame Cathedral. The restoration efforts have brought out more vibrant colors and intricate decorations than I had ever imagined. It was truly impressive.

For dinner, my husband and I decided to treat ourselves to an unforgettable experience at the world-renowned restaurant, Guy Savoy, which has been recognized as the best restaurant in the world by La Liste and boasts two Michelin stars.

*What Makes Guy Savoy So Special?*

The journey to our table at Guy Savoy was an experience in itself. The restaurant is located at the Monnaie de Paris, an iconic building with a rich history. As we walked through the entrance, we were greeted by magnificent marble pillars, high ceilings, and an ornately decorated roof. A grand staircase adorned with a red carpet led us to an automatic door. It felt like stepping into a Hollywood movie.

To our surprise, the door opened to reveal none other than Chef Guy Savoy himself, warmly welcoming us and shaking our hands. Perhaps we were lucky, but it certainly left a lasting impression. We continued through a long corridor and passed various beautifully decorated rooms until we finally arrived at our table. It was a spacious round table with a pristine white cloth, colorful plates, and crystal objects, including a salt and pepper set and a candle holder. The view from the terrace window overlooked the Seine and the Palais de la Monnaie.

We opted for the full 14-course menu, which included a range of amuse-bouches, pre-desserts, and post-desserts. Each course showcased classic French ingredients presented in a fresh and modern way. From caviar and oysters to lobster, truffle, and foie gras, every dish was accompanied by delicious silky sauces, artistic and colorful presentations, and delicate yet bold flavors. The combination of contrasting textures—crunchy with soft, sweet with savory—added to the excitement.

It was challenging to pick a favorite dish, but the famous soups stood out to me. The chestnut soup and the artichoke soup with black truffle and heavenly buttery brioche (their signature dish) were simply divine. They even offered a second serving from a large pot, but I could only manage one serving as I was already quite full. I savored it slowly to fully appreciate the flavors.

The entire dining experience was enhanced by the attentive staff (and the sight of chefs in their toques working in the kitchen, visible through the windows of the palace – I saw them before entring). It was truly impressive.

However, such an extraordinary experience comes at a price. The full menu costs €680 per person, excluding wine (fortunately, we don’t drink), and the soup alone, if ordered à la carte, is €180.

After our luxurious dinner, as we walked back to our hotel, we encountered a homeless person sleeping in the rain just one block away. I left my gourmet presents, which I had received after paying, near him and couldn’t help but reflect on the stark contrast between our opulent dining experience and his situation. It made me question the morality of luxury.

Nevertheless, Guy Savoy has built a remarkable business, preserving the French culinary tradition and inspiring many young chefs. If you want to experience the pinnacle of French cuisine, this restaurant will not disappoint. It’s more than just a dinner; it’s a complete sensory journey where every detail is meticulously crafted, even the presence of other guests. Seeing the homeless person made us ponder deeply. It was an emotional evening from start to finish.

Chef Guy Savoy visited the tables twice during the evening, and at one point, he caught me literally licking the plate. If you’re seeking an intense experience that represents the zenith of haute cuisine, make sure to visit this restaurant. It’s worth the trip, provided you’re comfortable with luxury.

(Sorry for the low quality photos – I didn’t bring my camera)