In the west of France, Prince de Conde has a scheme to save his bankrupt province; he'll regain the favor of King Louis XIV with a weekend of spectacle and merriment. The plan's success rests with Vatel, the one man who can deliver the sumptuous food, elaborate amusements and all-out decadence fit for this king! But in the midst of it all, Vatel catches the eye of the beautiful Anne...and places himself in direct competition with the king!