The Flair
of the Petit Déjeuner
“It's time for lunch” in the style around 1800
I. The Petit Déjeuner:
A fashionable invention of the 19th century
II. A delightful prelude
for polite society
III. The indispensable refreshment
for a long ball night
IV. A discreet note
from our concierge service
I. The Petit Déjeuner:
A fashionable invention of the 19th century
Why do we invite you at the midday hour to a “Petit Déjeuner” or lunch, and no longer, as was the custom in the early 18th century, to an early Dîner? The answer reveals the fascinating transformation in the way of life during the era of Jane Austen: In the Rococo period, the Dîner was still the principal midday meal of the day. With the dawn of the 19th century and modern evening gatherings, however, the festive dinner shifted ever further into the late evening hours.
To delightfully bridge the ever-lengthening span between the morning breakfast and the evening supper of the ball, the English gentry established a light, exceedingly fashionable intermediate meal: The "Déjeuner à la fourchette" or simply the lunch. Accompanied by delicate treats, fine pastries, and initial refreshments, we celebrate this charming custom right in the baroque heart of Eichstätt.
II. A delightful prelude
for polite society
Is there a more beautiful commencement to our grand ball day than this communal, enjoyable rendezvous at the Café Zum Paradeis? In the splendor of society, etiquette dictates that no gentleman shall dance with a lady to whom he has not yet been properly introduced. The Petit Déjeuner affords you the perfect opportunity to informally introduce yourself to the festive society, warmly refresh old acquaintances, and perhaps even secure the first promising entries for the evening's dance card.
III. The indispensable refreshment
for a long ball night
Moreover, this midday gathering is not merely a social pleasure, but quite simply a necessity. Entirely committed to the conventions of Regency balls, we shall not open the grand buffet volant in the Hall of Mirrors of the Residence until an advanced hour of the evening. As the spirited Contredanses will demand a considerable measure of stamina from you, our Petit Déjeuner bestows upon you precisely the lightness and endurance you require to glide buoyantly across the parquet until midnight.
IV. A discreet note
from our concierge service
That you may attend this midday amusement already in your consummate day attire, we highly recommend a special privilege to you: Our exclusive and complimentary concierge service enables you to occupy your room in our partner hotels frequently before the regular check-in time. Thus, you may attire yourself in complete tranquility – whether in an elegant spencer jacket and poke bonnet or a distinguished frock coat and top hat.
We look forward to commencing the ball day with you in the most excellent manner. Eichstätt – that radiant jewel of the Rococo – awaits you with open arms!