15, Rue Petits Champs
Paris, France
+33.1.42.96.37.86
www.maceorestaurant.com
It's no longer too tough to find a vegetarian menu in Paris - think Guy Savoy, Pierre Gagnaire, Alain Passard. What can be a little more difficult to find is a vegetarian menu that will get two people out the door for less than 500 euros. Maceo, from the owners of Willie's Wine Bar next door, is a hit with vegetarians in Paris for precisely that reason. While there are a la carte offerings and seasonal menus for omnivores, the "Menu Au Vert" is not only the best value, but often has the most interesting offerings. It's so appealing, my meat-eating friends often go with the green selections.
A winter menu offered preserved baby vegetables with goat cheese and parsley with a creamy veloute of chesnuts with truffle juice. The was followed by wild mushrooms and polenta with pear and fourme d'Ambert served with winter vegetables in curry sauce (above photo). A choice of cheese of dessert concludes the meal. And all for 32 euros.
The upstairs dining room at Maceo is a historical monument. The ceilings are 12' high and have beautiful moulded plasterwork. Tables are well spaced for intimate conversations. Maceo is definitely worth a visit.
