Jeff,
Brilliant description/review (as usual for you).  Two additions/corrections. 
 
1) We were also served Ilija’s beef goulash over noodles.  Tender cubes of beef in a spicy, paprika laden sauce over egg noodles.  The sauce made me wish I had more bread to soak it up.  This is certainly not the “goulash” 1960’s moms would make with cheese and elbow macaroni. 
2) The dessert also had a layer of chocolate mousse somewhere between the macaroons.
 
Thanks to everyone who joined us.  You made this a special night for The Contingent and for Ilija.
Jim