Wonderful food in a glorious position by the lake

Word to the wise: To work up an appetite, take a pre-dinner stroll in Mon Repos Park with its centuries-old trees and open green spaces.

Flower-draped terrace. Check. Candle-lit interior. Check. Stunning views over the lake. Check. La Perle du Lac appears to have it all. It is one of the most charming and elegant restaurants in the city and stands on the shores of the lake in Mon Repos Park.

The setting is not the only factor that allures diners as the talented French chef has created a siren song of a menu that includes such specialties as fillet of sea bass roasted with mango vinaigrette, lamb fillet in almond crust and lobster with citrus fruits.