Dans Le Noir

I went there last night (21/8/07) and had what can only be described as one of the most exciting dining experiences I have ever had. It's one of those Marmite places, some will love it, others will hate it but you just have to try.

We arrived shortly before the time of our booking (best all to arrive at the same time because they can only seat you all in one go) and were greeted by a slightly cheesy but polite, enthusiastic and charming Frenchman. He explained procedures, dos and don'ts, offered us a drink at the bar whilst we waited for our waiter, took our order and sent us on our way. The Surprise Menu is divided into 4. White (anything), Red (No Fish), Blue (No Meat), Green (Vegetarian). So you make your choice of food and drink before entering the room.

You walk into the Dark Room led by a blind or partially sighted waiter in a single file with your right hand over the right shoulder of the person in front until you reach your table, you are seated and then he explains protocol. Don't move, don't get up and walk around, if you need something ask etc

So there we were, just seated, feeling around trying to familiarise ourselves with our new surroundings and co-diners (Did I mention I only knew 1 person out of the 6 others). Talk about a blind date! there's no better way to find out about someone

The experience is great, there's a fair amount of touchy feely going on because you have to feel your neighbour's hand before you pass her a bottle of wine or some bread etc. You suddenly become much more intimate with the person sitting next to you than you would if you were in a lit room (make sure you sit next to someone you have no problem touching).

The conversation at dinner was also completely different. A lot more comments about the food, what are we eating? Who's nicked my wine? (btw Melanie that was me:)) where's the water? No not that one, the still wateretc. I wonder what we would have done if someone had asked for the salt? You have to put in a lot more effort in HOW you say things, normally a lot is said just by a smile or a deep look, there you have to use your voice in a very different way, it's fascinating.

I would have liked to stay there a little longer and just sit and chat but we felt that they needed the space for other customers and felt, although very politely and discreetly, slightly pressured into leaving.

The only down side to this restaurant is the food. This place having very strong French roots you would expect the food to be tastier. Don't get me wrong, it wasn't bad, just nothing to write home about. The price is around 50 a head (service not included) which in itself is acceptable considering we had aperitifs and wine and a great experience.

I definitely recommend the place and if you can't find friends to go with you, call me, I'd love to go again.