Madam, would you like a camel with your G&T?
Marilyn February 12th, 2007
From time to time people have said ‘you should write a book’. What … another recipe book (to promote the restaurant)? I’ve never seriously considered it because I couldn’t get a handle of what direction it should take. Neither Francis nor I are chefs, so the style of food at Baguette has evolved and changed with the chefs we employed … messy … so what else to say? Jan Power (Brisbane foodie extraordinaire, writer, after dinner speaker and farmers market organiser) came up with one idea. Write the stories: the sad, the funny, the absurd and the downright grotesque. So here’s one.
The family of a well-known Ascot artist (and wife of a colourful QC) were throwing her a surprise 60th. Friends and foes were gathered at a local historic hall for a Murder Mystery evening. But beforehand a few drinks at home were in order. Suitably surprised our heroine was led to the front garden where 2 camels awaited. Transport to the evening’s venue. So, donning her mink and with her son in tow she set off for Racecourse Road, a short haul from the family home.
Meanwhile at Baguette, customers were enjoying an early evening drink at tables on the pavement, when ’round the corner came 2 camels with evening dressed occupants on board. Mouths dropped, everyone swivled and a stunned silence descended. The artist, never one to let a good opportunity pass, suddenly ordered a halt. “I think I need a gin & tonic” she declared. So the camels did that thing they do with their legs when they sink to the ground, and the two passengers calmly sat down at a table to have their drinks — before re-mounting and loping off to their destination.
There are many more stories of course, some very messy and inappropriate to relay whilst the protagonists are still alive. But if we hang in there long enough, libel wont be an issue and you may see that book afterall …
Welcome back….Great story. Like the new look as well.
That’s quite a story. I can’t picture where they would have ‘parked’ – street and pavement space are prime real estate in Ascot.