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Evocative of a Parisian bistro Parc is a welcome addition to the Rittenhouse Square neighborhood. It sits directly across from the park. The space is very large, open, and many seats, besides the ones outside, give you a view of the Rittenhouse Square.

Inside it is loud. I love the look of it all.

Prices are not out of line for the location. The bartenders are friendly. A measured glass of wine runs about $9. A pint of Hoegaarden beer was $7. A pitcher of Laboure-Roi white wine was $28.

Casey was our waiter and he was almost excellent. We had half a dozen fresh oysters, the oysters were just okay. Still the best oysters we have had in the city were at Tir Na Nog at 16th and the Parkway.

As entrees, the leg of lamb was edible but nothing to write home about. The Duck Confit was too salty, the calves liver was pedestrian.

For desserts there was a crispy perfect Apple Tarte Tatin that was excellent. The profiteroles, a puff pastry with ice cream inside drizzled with chocolate sauce, was very good and the baked Chocolate Mousse was good.

We had coffee and dessert wine.

Much has been said about PARC being like a Paris bistro. This is not a Paris bistro, but a decent impression. The food was not as good as the bistros we frequent in Paris. The food was not as good as many of the casual restaurants in Philadelphia.

As we were deciding on whether or not to have a cheese tray and some Port or other complimentary wine, our check was brought to the table. Total for the three of us was $190 plus tip.

That would never happen in Paris. Your check would not be presented until it was requested. Needless to say, we took a pass on the cheese tray and wine, and opted to walk along the park and have a nightcap at the Capital Grill.

How Lucky are We