I ate lunch out today as I feel the need to eat at Le Panache once a week and there are two reasons that I cannot eat there as usual on Friday night. The first reason is I am going to Andorra for the weekend and leaving on Friday morning so dinner Friday night will be in Andorra. The second reason is that Le Panache is going to be closed on Friday and Saturday nights.

Talking to Enzo at lunch, I asked why they were closing – private party, vacation or other reason. Enzo said that he, Evrim and Laurent are heading to Bilbao, Spain for the finals of the European Rugby Competition. They are doing a boys weekend. He said lots of beer would be consumed. They are somewhat disappointed as Stade Toulousian is out of the competition. They lost in the quarter finals to their arch rivals Bordeaux. Bordeaux is in the finals against Leinster. It sounds like a fun weekend.

Lunch was fantastic! The main course was Gambas (large shrimp) and fennel salad with a citrus dressing. I love fennel and shrimp so it was a great choice for me. I make a fennel, arugula and orange salad when I am at home. I love that salad and now know that I can add grilled shrimp to make it even better. I think it will be a great summer dinner.

I am getting a good dose of Clafoutis. This version was with cherries. It was also made in a larger version and cut as pieces. I am definitely going to have to try making it at home. Enzo said it was not his favorite pastry.

Before lunch, I went grocery shopping. I needed something to fix for dinner and bought a John Dory filet. I made it Meunière style and it was came out well. I had usual vegetables of green beans and a salad.

I, also, had to think ahead as with my trip to Andorra I would not be able to do my usual shopping on Sunday and the markets are closed on Monday. Sunday and Monday are my cook at home days so I had to get food to be prepared. I bought some lamb chops and zucchini as both will stay fresh for the days I am gone. I bought some peaches for breakfast fruit as they are coming into season here in France. I think peaches are one of my three favorite fruits. It is nice to get them early as they do not really come into season until July in the Washington area.

In the afternoon, with the beautiful weather, I sat by the river at one of the riverside cafes and read. It is a great way to spend the afternoon. I had a glass of Limonade as I read.