Snagging a table in Paris often isn’t a last minute event, especially if you’re shooting for the Michelin stars. People clamor for admission into the doors of some restaurants as if they were the gates to heaven. It doesn’t hurt if you’re staying at a hotel where the concierge has clout. But don’t expect him or her to perform miracles if you decide your heart is set on eating at a specific restaurant that night.
But there’s no need to leave the States — unless you want to. You can always head to Las Vegas and come away with a taste of the City of Light.
The same culture and history is lacking but hey, there’s a time and a place for everything. There’s no mandate you’re required to hop on a transatlantic flight. Plus, you may not have the time.
Some of France’s leading chefs have set up satellite restaurants in the desert where, “What happens here stays here.” Among them are Joel Robuchon, Alain Ducasse, Guy Savoy and Jean-Georges Vongerichten.
People are required to reserve in Vegas as if they were dining in Paris. But don’t expect these restaurants’ meals to be cheap. Even with the weak dollar, a meal in Las Vegas is going to set you back a minimum of $100 per person.
Come to think of it, you might not want to keep your culinary forays in Vegas a secret.
Karen Fawcett is the president of Bonjour Paris
