A Wren Says

If you happen to stay at the Eliza Jane, you are likely to need food at some point. Perhaps your easiest meal option is the one that is basically right below your room, Couvant. I went to this hotel restaurant for breakfast and dinner. Here is my experience.

I ordered Shrimp and Grits. It looked better than it tasted. My breakfast was cold. How did it come fresh from the kitchen and yet be cold? The shrimp was fresh and well-seasoned, but they were no match for the disappointing grains and eggs. Flavor can only do so much if it isn’t served at the right temperature.

Given my breakfast experience, I had very low expectations for diner. Everyone in my party ordered a drink, I ordered a mocktail. Because of my indifference and indecision, the server suggested that they just surprise me. I was indeed surprised. It was delicious. It was some kind of cucumber mint concoction. I thoroughly enjoyed it. As appetizers, we got Tête du cochon- delicious, and panisse (chickpea fries) also delicious. For my actual meal, the server suggested the duck. For my actual meal, the server suggested the duck.

This is the dish I should have taken a picture of. The skin on the duck breast was deliciously crisp. The duck thigh crepe on the side was life changing. The only problem is that I am uncultured and was not sure if it were safe to eat duck served rare, so I couldn’t enjoy it fully as I considered potential food poisoning. But apparently it is okay.

I have no idea how there was such a big difference between the dinner and the breakfast staff. I would go back there for dinner in a heartbeat, but only back for breakfast if desperate. I am also now going look up a recipe for panisse, because I need more of that in my life.

If you are staying at the Eliza Jane, or just happen to be in the area, I highly suggest you give Couvant a try, just maybe not for breakfast.