Le Cinq for Christmas lunch?

[topeater]

We are in Paris for Christmas which will be our last day. We were thinking about going to Le Cinq for lunch. It's a fixed menu & pretty expensive. Since they make you send in your credit card information to secure a reservation & they charge your card even if you cancel, I want to make sure we are making a good decision. There have been a few times in the States where holiday set meals do not showcase the ability of the restaurant.

Has anyone been to Le Cinq for Christmas lunch? What do you think?

[Delucacheesemonger]

CC notwithstanding, go for it. Avoid the absurdly priced glasses of champagne offered, but wine list has many stars especially from Chablis and the Loire valley.
They will make you happy.

[topeater]

I am not well versed in French wines. Should I just ask for a pairing or suggestion?

[Delucacheesemonger]

Of course and their sommelier is very well versed to make you happy. My choice is always the Raveneau Butteaux Chablis from the 2005 or 206 vintage, around 85 euros.

[topeater]

Thanks for the info. Will keep in mind.

[jock]

the 206 may be a little over the hill.

[Delucacheesemonger]

OK 2006, they were out of amphoras

[pauliface]

My dinner at Le Cinq was the best meal I've ever had in Paris. And that is saying a LOT.

We ordered wine pairings with their tasting menu, and the pairings were phenomenal. I've never seen anything like it.
I felt like they were diving into their centuries old wine cellar to find just what would go best with our meal. There were glasses of things that were 10, 20, 25 years old, maybe even more, and perfect for what we were eating.

I cannot wait for the day I can return.

[Rio Yeti]

Le Cinq already feels very "christmassy" with all those elves bringing little presents from Santa's kitchen. So Le Cinq on Christmas day would be like an overdose... of happiness...

P.S.: I hate Christmas, but I loved Le Cinq.

[porkpa]

There are very few places where I've enjoyed having lunch as good as le Cinq and none better.

[topeater]

Thanks for the feedback. Almost everything I've read about Le Cinq has been positive.

Maximillien, I was surprised about the cc charge also, but they must be pretty serious about it as the policy is clearly stated on the fax you have to send back to them. The menu looks pretty incredible with lots of truffles, so I guess they want to make sure they don't lose money on this lunch! Oh yes, this policy is only for Christmas.

[Maximilien]

I'm surprised about the credit card thing, usually they will charge you only if you do not show up or do not cancel before a number number of days before the reservation.

But at least they warned you about it.

I would do it.

Max.