The tradition of giving guests individual menus only started in the 19th century, when it became popular for kings, princes and other members of royal families to dine in restaurants such as Cafe Hardy, Cafe de Foy, Magny, Laperouse and the Cafe Anglais. By 1850 it was considered essential that important guests be given their own menus. The most famous of these is probably from the meal served on June 7, 1867 at the Cafe Anglais. The diners were Czar Aledxander II, the future Czar Alexander III and the King of Prussia and the meal has come to be known as "The Dinner of the Three Emperors".
Soups Imperatrice Frontanges
Intermediate Courses Souffle a la Reine Sole fillets a la Venitienne Turbot Steaks au Gratin Saddle of Mutton with Breton Puree
Entrees Chickens a la Portugaise Hot quail Pate Lobster a la Parisienne Champagne Sorbet
Roasts Duck a la Rouennaise Canapes of Young Wild Birds
Final Courses Eggplant a l'Espagnole Asparagus Cassolettes Princesse Bombe Glacee
The wines served were Madeira, Return from India, 1846; Sherry, 1821; Chateau Yquem 1847; Chambertin 1846; Chateau Margaux, 1847; Chateau-Latour
1847; and Chateau Lafite, 1848. The bill for the meal came to 1,200 Francs. In today's terms that would be $12,950 for dinner for three.