Le Cou de la Girafe

Le Cou de la Girafe is a hot restaurant on the Paris dining scene – elegantly buzzing at lunchtime, romantic with softened edges in the evenings. The witty name means ‘the giraffe’s neck and the theme is projected inside with a chic, modern interior by Pierre Yves Rochon (who made the Joel Robuchon restaurant in London such an elegant space) in tones of earth, sand dunes and wood with faux animal details. The unpretentious menu offers both traditional dishes and exotic creations under the direction of stellar chef Gregory Coutanceau. Try traditional roast beef with foie gras sauce, shrimp soup with coconut milk, scallop risotto, pear crumble with pear sorbet, just to bring the point home. Special lunch menus for ‘Working Girls’ and ‘Golden Boys’ are a steal, and the terrace tables are fine for sunny days. A private room is the choice for special events, business or pleasure, with menus adapted to your own group, including vegetarian choices. Definitely worth a detour off the Champs-Elysées.