Located in Strasbourg, France, La Rivière is notably one of the best meals I’ve had in my life. Although I’m only a teenager, I have been privileged to travel the world and eat at world class restaurants. Walking into the small restaurant that is La Rivière, one will find countless books, toys and other knick knacks stacked throughout the restaurant. The owner, elegantly presented my family, friends and I with two courses.
Amuse Bouche: Served on a stick, the dish appeared as a spiky globe of crab. Intended to awaken ones taste buds, the unusual treat was packed with flavor. The amuse bouche was accompanied by a tisan (tea). The tisan was a subtle yet refreshing mixture.
Appetizers: While deciding which appetizers to order, the owner offered to create a special course just for us. Consisting of six plates, the second course separated La Revière from a good restaurant to a great one! Two types of dumplings were served, one fish and one lamb. The dumplings exploded with fantastic flavor. Similarly, lamb potstickers were served as well along with what is best described as a crab wonton. The crab was electric and noticeably fresh. Also plated was beef carpaccio and salmon sashimi. The carpaccio was dressed in a vibrant sauce.
Entree: Soft Shell Crab. The delicious crab was served along side three bowls, holding: a cucumber salad, yellow and white rice topped with currants, and sweet and sour soup with hibiscus flower. It is insisted by the owner that one begins their main course in this order. The salad was a burst a freshness and the rice bowl was a flavorful mixture. Of all three bowls, the sweet and sour soup was by far the most memorable. The soups powerful flavor and contrast would have left me content if my meal ended there, but no, the soft shell crab was still to come. The crab was perfectly cooked, allowing for a great crunchy texture. A catfish dipping sauce added a burst of flavor to the already mind blowing dish.
La Revière is without a doubt one of the best restaurants I have visited in my lifetime. A mixture between fine dining and casual, the overall experience is one everybody should be exposed to in their lifetime. If ever traveling in Strasbourg, I highly recommend visiting La Revière. You won’t be disappointed.
Chirp