Ahhhh Au Jardin, the name you find at the top of many…many food guides. Located in a somewhat dreamy botanical gardens ( if you have a thing for leafy tropical settings ) and great french fare, then its not hard to see why.

It has always been my dream to dine at Au Jardin, always at the back of my mind, wondering when prince charming will come galloping on his majestic stallion, whip me off my feet and dine me silly…. An indulgent hope I kept close..very close to my heart.
That day came on my first year anniversary, the boyfriend had reserved a table one good month in advance (plus points given for unraveling my yearnings). I mean, I knew I was in for some pampering but I never mentioned this little secret desire to anyone (I know! I’m not too good with hints!). It was a day I remembered why I fell in love with him.

The path to the restaurant was dimly lit, quiet and surreal. I found it exotically romantic. I soon became lost in my own fantasy, daintily trodding forward, soaking up the experience I’d likely remember for a long time to come. A short walk along a fern-lined walkway led us to a quaint, charming colonial house. Welcomed by smiling staff, we were led up the red carpeted stairway to a table coyly set on a balcony surrounded by one of the most amazing tropical settings ever. Lush ferns adorned the outdoors and magnificent rain trees illuminated by well placed ambient lights. It was romantic and I, swept of my feet.

Au Jardin offers an 8 course degustation menu, labeled ‘taster’ and a traditional 4 course menu you put together. I never had a thing for degustation menus, their servings being too small, too ungratifying.. The Au Jardin waiters really know their stuff, capable of detailing every single dish if you’re up for it… impressive and useful if you don't really want to think so much. We ended up going for the latter 4 course selection, picking the much talked about wagyu beef cheek marbled with fat, braised tender and sauced with seductive red wine. mYuuuum!

It was good, no… it was great… the wagyu chunk I left on my tongue impressed with an intense beefy flavour enhanced by the marbled fat and melted…MELTED on my tongue. It overwhelmed me and I turned red, my eyes welled up. I loved it. I didn’t know what to say…. I thought I was in heaven.

I thoroughly recommend Au Jardin for any special occasion but don’t forget to make a reservation way in advance.