Castle of the Prince de Condé, late April 1671 - François Vatel is the faithful devoted steward of the proud albeit ruined, aging Prince de Condé who wants to regain the favor of King Louis the Fourteenth. For the occasion, Condé entrusts the fate of his House to Vatel, ordering him to prepare a reception for the entire Court of Versailles. The festivities are to last three days and three nights and must be dazzling.