In “John St. John: The Record of the Magical Retirement of G. H. Frater, O∴ M∴” Crowley records a number of delicious beef dishes. Sometimes he’s specific, and sometimes he’s not. On the Fourth Day, he is specific, and tells us:
6.15. Chez Lavenue. Not feeling like revision, will read through this record.
My dinner is to be Bisque d’Ecrevisses, Tournedos Rossini, a Coupe Jack, half a bottle of Meursault, and Coffee. All should now acquit adepts of the charge of not knowing how to do themselves well.
Interestingly, L’Avenue of today is a “celebrity fly trap.” People who want to be seen by the paparazzi — Kim Kardashian, Kanye West, Rihanna, Lana Del Rey, Selena Gomez, Justin Bieber, Beyoncé – are photographed here. Messy Nessy Chic tells us, “L’Avenue is the go-to eaterie for big spenders–and probably one of the blandest restaurants in Paris.” Let’s hope it wasn’t that bad over a century ago.
Bisque D’ecrevisse is a crayfish bisque. Julia Child offers a recipe in Mastering the Art of French Cooking, Volume Two, if you wish for true expertise.
Tournedos Rossini is beef filet rounds in a madeira sauce with truffles.
Coupe Jack is an ice cream dessert, usually with fruit.
Mersault is a location in France famous for white wines made with the Chardonnay grape.
Coffee in Paris is different from coffee in the United States. Whether one is preferable to the other is a matter of opinion. Some like both!
Do you feel inspired to dine like To Mega Therion? Let us know how it goes!
