In France, ‘Poisson d’Avril’ (April’s Fish) is a one day affair corresponding to our April Fool’s Day. Never believing you can have too much of a good thing, the good folks at Provence Restaurants have extended the finny fun and fine food to encompass a full month during its sixth annual Poisson d’Avril. Through to the end of April, each restaurant will be featuring a different value-priced prix-
Both of these ‘fish forward’ menus offer a ‘school’ of choices – from sturgeon to steelhead, trout to tuna and everything imaginable in the bouillabaisse; there is something to please every fish fanatic. Tartare, poached, grilled, smoked, and in soup are just some of the many ways Provence will prepare the ‘finny fare.’ Not a fish lover? Not to worry – there are plenty of non-fish choices available on the regular menu.
“As an inaugural member of Ocean Wise, many of our dishes feature fish and seafood that has been harvested in a sustainable and responsible manner. Poisson d’Avril is an opportunity to showcase the bounty of our ocean and lakes while welcoming spring with a bit of fun,” says Provence Owner and Executive Chef Jean-Francis Quaglia. “The staff love this event. Many of them participate in making the paper fish that decorate the walls and windows.”
In French tradition, Poisson d’Avril is an ‘excuse’ to 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. During April, some lucky Provence patrons will find a paper fish under their plate or taped to their back. These Poissons come with a prize – perhaps a complimentary appetizer, a cookbook or a gift certificate, are some of the possibilities.
While there is something very fishy happening at Provence Restaurants this April, diners will agree that the Poisson d’Avril is a whale of a good time!
Provence Marinaside is located at 1177 Marinaside Crescent in Yaletown call 604 – 681-4144 for reservations
Mediterranean Grill is located at 4473 West 10th Ave in Point Grey call 604-222-1980 for reservations