Love songs

Happy Valentine's Day. Here is a cynical article on the history of frankly-don't-be-my-valentine cards. And the incredibly talented, unapologetic romantic Jessie Ware performing live in the KCRW studio. Ah, amour! Amour!

My valentine and I went out for a lovely dinner at a neighborhood restaurant, La Cuisine de Jean. Without any exaggeration, it was hands down the best meal I've had in Toulouse. Jean stepped out of his kitchen to greet us at the door, then described a very seasonal, very original dinner menu. Jean-Baptiste and I both were dazzled by the velouté d'araignée de mer and Coquilles Saint Jacques rôties, presented in the pretty, furry crab shell. The thing about La Cuisine de Jean is that we have driven past it a million times and would probably never have given it a second thought if it weren't for Jean-Baptiste's aunt highly recommending it. There is nothing showy or chic about its exterior, but once your plates arrive, you wonder if you should have opted for a nicer outfit.