Circonstances

Lively modern French cuisine

grilled salmon, sesame, sweet spices

Circonstances is a modern French restaurant in central Paris, it is in the popular district of Rue Motmartre and the atmosphere was buzzing when we arrived for dinner. It was awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand for its excellent cooking using top market ingredients. I decided to book this restaurant after seeing high numbers of positive on-line reviews and at only 35 Euro for a 3 course a la carte dinner, with about 6 dishes to choose from each course, it sounds like real value for money. The items on the menu changes on a pretty regular basis. based on the available ingredients from the local market.

truffle croquettes

pressed beef, truffle vinaigrette condiment

roasted prawns, chiffon split peas, truffle jus

Fregola sarda, pig hock, truffle cream

The fresh truffle croquettes starter was slightly underwhelming, the robust, earthy aroma from the truffle was lacking, as the flavour itself was overtaken by the potato. The salted pork "risotto" was a step above, great seasoning and the fregola had an interesting smooth texture and it worked in harmony alongside the truffle cream. My main of Beef cheek was sensational, the rich, moist, melt in your mouth texture has been just a pure treat, the garnish of artichokes was also cooked finely, tender smooth with a touch of sweetness to it. The dessert of rum baba was decent as the clean and fresh taste of the rum really cut through the cake, but the cream was perhaps a touch too much.

beef cheek, artichokes, parsley

rum baba

raspberry cheesecake

cognac

The food at Circonstances was from decent to high quality depending on the dishes, but what makes me really loved the evening was the lively atmosphere in the restaurant, everyone was really enjoying themselves with wine flowing fast and hard. Our waiter also spoke great English and treated us with proper care. Also, I am a big fan of its meat terrine and house pickles that were given to use before our actual course begin, which really added extra value to the overall dining experience. If you are seeking a fun and lively French restaurant at a reasonable price tag, Circonstances would be an excellent choice.


Food 3/5

What I paid: 
£50 per head with a glass of wine and cognac

Average cost without drinks and services:
£30

174 Rue Montmartre, 75002 Paris, France

http://www.circonstances.fr/