And a very happy New Year to you, your family and friends.

I wish you all a very prosperous 2008, heath, happiness and peace on earth!

Looking back to 2007, it was not such a bad year after all; we managed a couple of breaks in France, went to Venice for a few days, and toured the north of Scotland. I think this is the first time that we were allowed so many days away from La Garrigue. This may very well have something to do with Julie and Hubert taking more and more responsibilities and enjoying running the show for me. (And without me!!)

La Garrigue won a few more awards, the latest is a recommendation from ”Slow Food “, and I am very pleased with the fact that so many people keep coming back, in spite of Edinburgh having so many good quality establishments. In such a competitive industry it is reassuring to have such a faithful clientele, thank you.

I have decided to close for a few days  from the 5th of January; and while the rest of the team enjoy a well deserved break, I will give the restaurant a much needed coat of paint, and re-organize a few things in the kitchen and the cellar, before re-opening the doors on Monday the 14th.
We have a few surprises in store of course such as special food events with a couple of wine suppliers, a brand new menu with some old favorites making a come back, new crockery, and if everything goes to plan a “La Garrigue cookery book” or at least a selection of our best recipes…but if you want to know more you will have to come and see us.

By the way, remember the important up coming dates such as the first rugby international on the 3rd of February between Scotland and France, we will open that week-end, and we still have some spaces for Saturday the 2nd for lunch and Sunday the 3rd lunch and dinner, sorry Saturday the 3rd dinner is already fully booked!

There is also St Valentines on the 14th of February and in between, a dinner with Catherine Roques, my Friend and Wine maker extraordinaire. We are in the process of finalizing the details and the date and I will let you know as soon as possible.

As you can see; plenty of things to plan and do the next few weeks so from the 14th, if you happen to be in the neighborhood pop in to say hello and have a plate of soup and a glass of wine.

See you soon,
J-Michel