Musings: Le Saint-Benoît

Musings: Le Saint Benoît

LETTERS TO THE PROMPT

In reflecting on my favorite restaurant, the question “What is your favorite restaurant?” triggers a journey through the corridors of memory, invoking the attributes of maturity, seasoned with a touch of humor, occasional cynicism, and refined taste. My immediate response transports me back to Le Saint-Benoît, an elegant establishment nestled in the heart of Monte Carlo, along the avenue de la Costa, commanding a breathtaking view of the Port and the majestic Grimaldi Rock. Founded by Marcel Athimond in 1986, it swiftly evolved into a cherished Monegasque institution.

Le Saint-Benoît exuded a welcoming ambiance, tailor-made for intimate gatherings, where patrons reveled in the warmth of its hospitality. Dominique presided over the dining room with a genial charm, while Marcel Athimond’s culinary mastery unfolded in the kitchen. Renowned for its impeccably fresh seafood, prepared with traditional finesse and an unwavering commitment to perfection, each dish was a testament to the art of culinary craftsmanship. And who could forget the exquisite desserts that crowned every meal, accompanied by a panoramic vista of Port Hercule, the Palais Princier, and the boundless expanse of the Mediterranean, painting a picture-perfect scene of indulgence.

Yet, as the adage goes, all good things must come to an end. With a heavy heart, I bid farewell to my beloved Le Saint-Benoît, as it gracefully completed its thirty-year journey, closing its doors to the world a few years ago.

WJJH-14.4.2024

Musings: The question “What is your favorite restaurant?” evokes memories of Le Saint-Benoît in Monte Carlo. This cherished institution, founded in 1986 by Marcel Athimond, offered impeccable seafood dishes and breathtaking views of the Port and Grimaldi Rock. Sadly, after thirty years, it closed its doors, leaving behind a legacy of culinary excellence.