And finally, your first installment.....

Our first day began with a picnic of breakfast foods, and ended with Hidden Kitchen. I had been dying to try this since the moment we planned our trip. As you may recall, I snagged the last two seats way back in March! One week prior to our arrival we were sent directions to the stylish Paris apartment where our chef hosts were to treat us to a multi-course gourmet feast. As we arrived at the apartment, we entered the code and went up the elevator, the building was what I had imagined, the perfect dream of a Paris apartment. The door opened and we were greeted by Laura one of our hosts. The candlelight flickered around the room as she served us an aperitif made with leeche syrup, leeche vodka and sparkling wine, delicious. We entered the dining space and were introduced to the other  guests. We met a great couple currently living in Beaufort, SC, but headed home to New Orleans and had a great time celebrating our first nights in the city.We bonded over our love of food and blogging. Check out her blog Im a Nola Girl.

Finally, the menu was out on the table and I couldn't resist sneaking a peak of what we were going to enjoy. And here it is...

We started with a watercress salad served with a poached quail egg, beautiful...

This was followed by linguine with radishes and pesto.

Up next, Salmon in a hibiscus bay leaf sauce over fingerling potatoes. The sauce was lightly sweet and a perfect complement to this flavorful fish. We then had a palate cleanser. I am not a fan of the drink, but the Mint Julep Cleanser was amazing. Served in a small cup with bourbon like jello and a mint lime foam. This was the perfect way to break up the meal. This was a great example of the creativity of this team! See more about it on their web site.

The next course was a chicken liver and artichoke ravioli. I am not a big fan of chicken liver, but the flavor of the artichoke balanced this dish so well. The added fennel and preserved lemon added the right amount of tart contrast to these strong flavors.

Up next cumin encrusted flank steak served over a polenta cake. I always love red meat, and this was a great combination of salt and texture.

Our salad course featured white beans with roasted beets and dill.

Finally we ended the night with a dessert of strawberry shiso sorbet on top of a puff pastry and slices or rhubarb. After dessert we were treated to homemade doughnuts and great rich french coffee.

This was an evening to remember. Laura and Braden were such gracious hosts. Laura served us wine paired with each course and Braden took the time to explain each dish and answer questions about his cooking and his ideas in the kitchen. They welcomed us into thier home and made each guest feel welcome and well cared for. Here are some photos that put mine to shame. I can't wait to return to Paris and to Hidden Kitchen. Thank you guys for a great night!