Le Calife – A restaurant cruising the Seine

Last night, we had an unusual and delightful dining and sightseeing experience. Jessica and I joined Erica, Martha and Peter for a great meal on the river. We boarded our riverboat docked across from the Louvre at 8:00 PM in a light rain. After settling in at our table, we ordered our food and drink, and began a great evening. Soon we were on our way upstream toward Notre Dame.

There is nothing quite like moving along a river, relaxing with food, drink, and friends, taking in the experience. After passing Notre Dame, we noticed an unusually lit large room atop a building on the left bank. This was was La tour d’Argent, literally translated the Silver Tower, but a great play on words since Argent also translates to “money” and La Tour d’Argent is perhaps the most expensive restaurant in Paris.

Just beyond that point, we turned around and began heading downstream. We again passed Notre Dame on the other side. (Notre Dame is on the island Île de la Cité which is located in the middle of the Seine.) 

We passed the Louvre the enormity of which is well appreciated from the river. All the while, we ate and drank none too wisely but well.

We passed the Eiffel Tower at 10:00 PM, well timed to see the display of lights (see below) which are turned on for a few minutes at the top of the hour. 

On the hour, thousands of lights flash on the Eiffel Tower, making it one of the most spectacular sights in the city. 

We saw a miniature version of the statue of liberty located on an island in the middle of the river.

Each bridge is a work of art. Amazing sculptures are present on most of the bridges, to be seen only by the river traffic.

It was a great experience and we recommend it. You can get more information here.