victory

My spouse is taking me to Paris (our first time) for my 50th birthday- the end of October. We would like an over the top great French meal- on the actual birthday. Prefer a lunch with courses, wine, view. Then that night, a trip on the Seine perhaps with a drink and light food. Any ideas? We are staying in the Latin Quarter

janisj

What is your budget for this "over the top" meal?

Scootoir

Victory,

How wonderful! I might be able to help with a restaurant suggestion but haven't actually been to this restaurant. My sister is planning her 50th in Paris next year and is leaning toward dinner at Le Train Bleu (www.le-train-bleu.com). It looks amazing, certainly over the top in appearance but perhaps not the view. It's in the Gare de Lyon.
I hope you don't mind but I'll be watching the responses and sharing with my sister.

victory

I think 70-100 Euro per person would be ideal.. but we could go higher.. it is a special birthday and a very special dining experience

teacherlady

Hi Victory, I'm turning 50 next summer and I'm leaning toward a Cityrama tour that includes dinner at the Altitude 95 Restaurant at the Eiffel Tower followed by a nighttime cruise on the Seine. I have been to Paris 4 times so I'm looking for something a bit different to do. I'd like to ask other Fodorites what they think of this plan. I hope you have a very happy birthday and I hope you enjoy the next 50 years.

phoenix79

Congratulations! And what a nice spouse you have...

If I could I'd go to Taillevent. I was planning on going last year but sadly could not in the end. There is no view, but from what I understand the owner and staff really do care about your dining experience. Also the owner, M. Vrinat, replies to all reservation requests and takes a personal interest in what you write.
http://www.taillevent.com/

luvparee

A group of friends and I enjoyed 60th birthday celebrations with a trip to Provence in Paris in late June/early July this year. Our last "blow out" was lunch at Jules Verne. The view, of course, is over the top and the multi-course lunch was spectacular. I believe my lunch (chosen from prix fixe menu at $57E, I believe) with a Kir Royale (or 2!) and coffee was 87E. However, it was a most memorable experience. You go to the restaurant entrance under the Tower, are whisked up in their private elevator, and walk out with your breath taken away. What a birthday celebration!

Enjoy!

joy/luvparee

starrsville

Ditto lunch at Jules Verne.
Call to make reservations NOW.

victory

Thanks for all the great ideas. Since we are changing hotels the morning of my 'special day' we decided to do an evening thing. After much deliberation decided to do a Seine Dinner Cruise with BATEAUX PARISIENS. They have some vegetarian food.. a plus for us. Bonus access for my wheelchair. Even if it is 'touristy' - sounds wildly romantic and beautiful- a way to see the lights of the Seine. For our more gourmet meals we did book lunches at Jules Verne and LE PROCOPE. Will report back when we return.. This issue of my wheelchair is going to be interesting. I can walk a few steps, but not for long, and no steps. Spouse does lift and carry as needed as we did in UK. So we shall see! Thanks for the ideas!