The Parisian dinner party is the ideal of entertaining chic: the style of the host, the quality of the food and wine, and the beauty of the setting. With this creative and invaluable book, Laurent Buttazzoni--renowned French architect, gourmand, and celebrated host of delightful dinner parties in Paris--shares his tried and true elements for Parisian entertaining.Dispelling the myths of expense and complexity that can intimidate hosts, Diner a la Maison is a guide to shopping, cooking, and entertaining the Parisian way. For weeknight gathering, Buttazzoni offers simple seasonal dishes such as Watercress Soup and French Macaroni and Cheese or Rack of Lamb with Pan Juices, Green Tabbouleh, and Lemon Tart. For a more formal dinner party a menu of Belgian Endive Salad with Pears and Blue Cheese, Duck Breast a l'Orange, and Honey Glazed Turnips or Poule au Pot, Poached Vegetables, and a luscious Berry Trifle.