A lavish lobster dinner for King Charles III’s recent visit to France incurred a staggering cost of €475,000 (£400,000), according to the French audit office. This extravagant meal was organized by President Emmanuel Macron during the monarch’s visit in September, featuring delicacies such as blue lobster, crab, and a wide variety of cheeses.
The Cour des Comptes, in its annual report, highlighted the analysis of state finances and revealed that increased spending on state receptions significantly impacted the presidency’s budget, leaving it €8.3 million in deficit. The report emphasized the need for the Elysée Palace to undertake significant measures to restore financial stability.
The breakdown of the dinner’s expenses shows that over €165,000 was allocated to catering services and another €40,000 for beverages. The high-profile guest list included well-known personalities such as actor Hugh Grant, football manager Arsene Wenger, and Rolling Stone Mick Jagger, who enjoyed a menu that began with blue lobster and crab, followed by Bresse poultry and mushroom gratin. The guests also indulged in a selection of fine cheeses, including French Comté and British Stichelton blue, concluding with a rose macaroon cookie dessert filled with rose petal cream, raspberries, and lychees.
This sumptuous banquet, held at the historic Palace of Versailles, was intended to strengthen the important alliance between France and the United Kingdom during King Charles’ three-day state visit. Initially slated for March, the visit was postponed amid widespread protests over pension reforms nationwide.
In addition to the King’s reception, the report also referenced a July 2023 banquet for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which amassed costs of €412,000 at the Louvre. The audit office noted that overall expenditures surged by 14% compared to the previous year, while revenue growth only reached 6.5%, underscoring the need for careful fiscal management at the presidential level.
