From April 1st through 30th, join Provence Marinaside in Yaletown for some finny fun and fine food at its second annual Poisson d’Avril. In France, ‘Poisson d’Avril’ (April’s Fish) is a one day affair corresponding to our April Fool’s Day. The good folks at Provence Marinaside believe you can never have too much of a good thing and have extended the fun to encompass a month-long celebration of all things fishy.
The celebration comes with its own ‘fish forward’ three-course menu offering a ‘school’ of choices for only $45. On it you’ll find fish of every description prepared in a myriad of ways. From sardines to salmon, confit to bouillabaisse there is something to please every fish lover on the extensive menu. For an additional $5 you can also order the Whole Fish of the Day, accompanied by seasonal vegetables and seven-grain rice. Then end on a sweet note with a choice of something decadent from Provence’s regular menu of hand-crafted desserts. Can you say ‘French lemon tarte?’
“As an inaugural member of Ocean Wise, we serve only fish that have been harvested in a sustainable and responsible manner. That still gives us plenty of choice,” states Provence’s Executive Chef and Owner, Jean-Francis Quaglia. “Poisson d’Avril is an opportunity to welcome spring with a bit of fun.” Everyone gets involved, including the children of staff who have created the hand-drawn fish what whimsically adorn the restaurant and menus during the promotion.
In France, Poisson d’Avril is an ‘excuse’ to poke a little fun and play a practical joke or two. People attach fish (usually paper cut-outs) to the back of their friends and family, who, unaware of the addition to their wardrobe, continue about the day with the new accessory until someone shouts ‘Poisson d’Avril!’ and the jinx is up. Patissiers and chocolatiers create special fish-shaped treats while at some restaurants, little chocolate fish are presented following the meal.
During April, some Provence patrons will find a lucky Poisson under their plate or pinned to their coat. These Poissons come with a prize – perhaps a complimentary appetizer, dessert or meal discount or a copy of New World Provence or even a chance to win a personal cooking demonstration class in their home with Chefs Alessandra and Jean-Francis Quaglia.
The restaurant will also offer a daily rosé feature by the glass, half litre or bottle.
While there is something very fishy happening at Provence Marinaside in April, diners will agree that the Poisson d’Avril menu is no joke!
Provence Marinaside: 1177 Marinaside Crescent (Yaletown), Vancouver 604-681-4144
Information/Reservations: www.provencevancouver.com
Poisson d’Avril 2010
April 1 – 30, 2010
Menu
Duo of Smoked Fish
albacore tuna and salmon
pearl onions, gherkins, mixed greens
or
Mackerel Façon Bouillabaisse
poached in fish soup
saffron rouille, gruyère cheese
or
Halibut Cheek Confit
snow pea sprouts, piquillo peppers, tapenade crostini
~
Citrus Dusted Salmon
asparagus, hollandaise, fingerling potatoes
or
Baked Sardine Fillets
Mediterranean vinaigrette, farro, arugula, spinach
or
Halibut
marinated oven dried plum tomato vinaigrette
legumes vert, saffron new potatoes
or Daily Whole Fish
seasonal vegetables, seven grain rice
(please add $5 for this dish)
or
Sable Fish
snow pea sprouts, piquillo peppers
fennel, orange, black olive essence
~
Dessert
choice from our menu
$45 per person
