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[Rachel Meyer/The Daily Pennsylvanian]

Tucked in the back of the Sofitel Hotel, Chez Colette provides an intimate dining experience within walking distance of Rittenhouse Square.

The French restaurant, located on 17th Street, is known for its brunch, but the dinner options are equally impressive.

With a palm tree situated at the center of the dining area and classic French posters framed around the walls, Chez Colette reflects a piece of the south of France in the early 1900s in a classy manner.

Chez Colette
120 S. 17th St. (215) 569-8300 Fare: Modern French cuisine Classy, low-key atmosphere to enjoy a fine meal.
My guest and I started with our respective hors d'oeuvres. I chose the goat cheese, lobster and eggplant ravioli ($12). Presented nicely, the three ravioli each provided a unique taste, complemented by the different sauces that accompanied them. My guest enjoyed the grilled vegetable terrine with blue cheese ($13). The dish was a flavorful alternation of the blue cheese in between a variety of vegetables.

In lieu of an entree, my vegetarian companion selected the mixed field greens with a mission fig vinaigrette ($11), along with the butternut squash and morel mushroom velout‹¨« ($7). The mixed greens were a balanced, light choice, while the velout‹¨« had a smooth, creamy taste that left my guest impressed.

Upon the waiter's suggestion, I selected the crisp duck ($25), which was served on a bed of roast potatoes with garlic and fine herbs. The generous portion of duck was a delicious central dish, and the potatoes were of the perfect consistency.

To close the evening, my guest and I opted for uniquely different dessert choices. I chose the malted chocolate fondant cake served with vanilla bean ice cream ($9). The combination of the chocolate cake, which had a liquefied chocolate center, and the premium ice cream contrasted perfectly.

My guest chose the "Drink Your Dessert," ($9) which was a silky smooth white chocolate vodka cocktail served with a pistachio biscotti. The cocktail was so good that my companion lamented the fact that he could not readily order it at a normal bar.

Overall, Chez Colette provides a low-key setting for a meal that does not leave the diner desiring much more.

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