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It was ironic that I was forced to choose “the best meal I’ve ever had” for a TV show (long story), mere moments before unknowingly enjoying the best meal I’ve ever had. It was in Europe, in the south of France. I mean, end of story, right?! Every single flat peach, lemon tart and prawn cocktail flavoured potato chip that I ate over there was unbelievably delicious. Maybe it was the fact that I was on vacation, or maybe it’s what they aren’t putting in the water in Europe, but whatever it was, I hope it never changes. Because the best way to explore a new corner of the world and to get to know a culture, is through food. Though, having my fiancées Grand-mére take us around and spoil us certainly helped. I’ve always been a budget-friendly traveller, so the extent of my hotel restaurant experience has been a sub-par continental breakfast. So, as the three of us headed off to a nearby hotel for lunch, I had no idea what I was in for. We arrived at La Reserve de Beaulieu, and after crossing a well-manicured courtyard garden, we reached a pair of doors that opened up to Le Vent Debout - one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen. Tables filled a luxurious terrace that wrapped around the hotel pool overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Crisp white beach umbrellas contrasted the deep blue sea, framed by mountains on either side. With the wait staff all dressed in matching white polo shirts and tan pants, I felt like I had stepped into a movie set of a rom-com where the village girl somehow snags the dashing prince finding herself in the lap of Champagne and caviar. I suddenly became aware of my gaping mouth as we took our seats and I prayed silently that my table manners wouldn’t let me down. We started with a glass of Champagne and enjoyed a tomato tapenade that accompanied a variety of house-made flatbreads and, of course, baguette. I took each bite and sip so slowly, savouring everything I could, hoping that it might also slow the passing of time. The menu was reassuringly small and we all ordered the plat du jour. A beautifully displayed arrangement of alternating tomato, zucchini and eggplant in a spiral fashion, bordered on one side by a decorative swipe of olive tapenade. On top, sat a generous portion of perfectly cooked salmon with crisp skin. Though, my absolute favourite part of the dish came as a surprise. The salmon fillet was garnished with the most deliciously tender garlic mussels, offering an unforgettable burst of flavour. For dessert, a raspberry sorbet complete with fresh raspberries and a lychee sauce drizzled overtop. If I could have spent the rest of my life in that moment, I would have. The view, the cool sea breeze, the food, and of course, the company, made the meal so special that we ended up sitting at the table for over three hours. The wait staff were wondering if they’d ever be able to start to prepare for the dinner service. But that’s the French Riviera for you, good food, prepared simply and in good company. So, if you find yourself anywhere near the south of France, you absolutely must go to La Reserve de Beaulieu and check out Le Vent Debout restaurant. You can tell them I sent you, it probably won't get you anything, but it's the least I can do!