L'enfariné sur Kientzheim

11/07/2025: Ah, Olivier Nasti — a name spoken in hushed tones by Michelin pilgrims and gastronomic gatekeepers alike. Set in picturesque Kaysersberg, this two-starred temple promised a decadent journey through Alsace and beyond. What it delivered, however, was more polished performance than emotional punch. Let’s start with the venue:Undeniably beautiful. The space is a sophisticated blend of organic warmth and contemporary restraint — wooden elements from the surrounding Vosges forests set against minimalist furnishings that whisper discretion and taste. The setting evokes quiet luxury without overstating itself. Then came the service — clinically perfect, timed to the second, and choreographed with the precision of a Swiss watch commercial. But warm? No. Charming? Not quite. It felt more like being guided through a culinary museum than being welcomed to someone’s (very expensive) table. And for €500 per person, I would have appreciated a sparkle in the sommelier’s eye and perhaps a story or two about the cheese. Now, a small but glaring detail: water stains on the wine glasses. In any restaurant this would be a slip; at this level, it's a sin. At €1,000 per couple, I expect my stemware to glisten like the crystal dreams of a Reims heiress. As for the food — solid. Sometimes delightful. But rarely transcendent. The hors d’oeuvre were the undeniable stars: a clever, charming ode to Alsace with escargots, flammkueche, and miniature miracles of regional flair. If the rest of the menu had followed suit, I’d be raving. The eel? Silky and nuanced. The asparagus and fish? Both executed with poise. And the venison tartar was, frankly, divine — robust yet refined, the kind of dish that makes you forget you’re halfway through a 12-course marathon. But then the cracks began to show. The chicken dish arrived and tasted like something you'd find in a respectable countryside inn — not a culinary destination with global ambitions. And the strawberry dessert? Pleasant but uninspired, the sort of finale that says, “You've had enough magic — now here’s some fruit.” FINAL VERDICT:La Table d'Olivier Nasti is a well-oiled machine of regional grace and gastronomic technique. But soul? Surprise? Joy? They were missing. A beautiful evening, yes — but not a memorable one. And certainly not one that justifies €1,000 for two. Would I return? Perhaps. But not on my dime. And not with romantic illusions of Michelin fireworks. 🐻🍷🍓💸

09/07/2025: Exceptional experience at all levels: to do at least once!...