The Dilemma
In 1870, during the Franco-Prussian War, Paris was entirely surrounded by enemy forces. Their goal: to starve the French into submission. Parisians eventually resorted to eating cats, dogs, rodents, and, before the war was over, about 70,000 horses.
During the Siege of Paris (1870–1871), dogs, cats, and rats were sold at the market.
Credit: INTERFOTO / Alamy Stock Photo
The Chef
In desperation, a zoo in northern Paris called the Jardin d’Acclimatation came to a disconcerting decision—its animals were sold to the kitchen of Chef Alexandre Etienne Choron’s restaurant, Voisin. Choron, the celebrity chef of his time, then treated his patrons to a wild six-course Christmas dinner!
Choron’s menu was so disturbingly offensive, historians think it might have been the legendary chef’s own way of commenting on the ludicrous war—a parody of war on the dinner table.
THE MENU
December 25, 1870
99th Day of the Siege
Appetizers:
Butter, Radishes, Stuffed Donkey Head, Sardines
Soups:
Puréed Red Beans with Croutons
Elephant Stock
Main Course:
Fried Gudgeon—Roasted Camel, English Style
Kangaroo Stew
Bear Chops Roasted with Pepper Sauce
Roasts:
Haunch of Wolf, Venison Sauce
Cat Flanked with Rats
Watercress Salad
Antelope Terrine with Truffles
Porcini Mushrooms Bordeaux Style
Buttered Green Peas
Sweet Course:
Rice Pudding with Preserves
Dessert:
Gruyère Cheese
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