What do we know generally about the french? A certain style in clothing? exquisite cooking and flair for all things cultured? We arrived at the pretty little courtyard via the back door as it wasn't clear where the entrance was. The charming young french waitress escorted us to our wrought iron chairs and table. Stereotypically 'quirky' and far from ideal for relaxing over a long romantic dinner. But it was fairly comfortable somehow, and soon our attentions began to appreciate the details that the french are so often famed for in the media. White embroidered table cloths serving as the backdrop to vintage silver cutlery and mis matched bone china plates illustrated with delicate flowers and embossed heraldic inspired motifs surrounding the diameter.
The summer air was filled with the aroma of Gallic musk which wafted curiously over the chitter chatter of french diners enjoying the romantic lantern-lit terrasse.
Regards the famed french cooking, A petite menu on one sheet of A4 was just right, changing daily and like the revolution in Paris, broke with tradition and offered us a few alternatives from the classics.
Thai salad, (off with their heads I hear you cry) delicious though, spicey, fruity with coriander, mint, delicate hints of soy sauce and chilli. France however isn't completely disregarded, my main course was classic, provincial Provencal cooking, white fish with mashed potatoes, cherry tomatoes, garlicky Aioli and Fennel, perfectly simple. To finish a chocolate macaroon to eat in the hand. My partner had egg plants with homemade Jam smothered over the top which was brought together like an early Picasso, strange at first, yet balanced.
Drinks, no Champagne to be had here which was disappointing but their Cava had decent body and length and is good value. The small wine list just got past the acceptable level of entries for price range and styles and I typically chose one of their least interesting spanish wines. The only blip on our evening. It was refreshing to be in the company of only french people at Les Terrasses and the cooking was among our 2 favourites dining experiences in our 10 day trip to the mostly mediocre cooking landscape that is Ibiza.