Brasserie des Beaux-Arts (La), Toulouse

I had a romantic notion of Toulouse--quite definitely my association with the marvelous film of the 1950s "Moulin Rouge." I traveled to Toulouse primarily to visit Albi and see the Lautrec works there. The moment I arrived at the Hotel des Beaux-Artes I knew that time would not allow. The marvelous woman who checked me in told me to go next door while my room was being prepared. It was noon and the restaurant was just opening for lunch. A complimentary glass of champagne was brought to my table. I had a fantastic fish soup/chowder. My main course was "scorpion fish," rascasse (sounds better in French than in English). The breads served were outstanding. The dessert was equally so. I think back on my experience and know that the miles Itraveled brought me to something I shall never forget.