Scores of Ritz-Carlton’s Diners Are Biting at Babette’s 19th-Century Feast : HOTELS/TOURISM

It will never replace filet mignon or even a good cheeseburger, but the Dining Room at the Ritz-Carlton is doing a brisk business these days dishing up alligator soup.

For the next few weeks, the posh restaurant will continue to serve “Babette’s Feast,” the luxuriant, seven-course French meal that takes its name from the Oscar-winning Danish film. Since the feasting started last month, 140 patrons have paid $110 (or $75 without wine) to sample Babette’s menu at the Ritz, said Uwe Christiansen, executive assistant manager.

Of course, 100 years have made some difference. “Obviously, we weren’t able to duplicate an 1850 bottle of wine” either, said Linda Adams, a spokeswoman for the Ritz. “We’re as true to the menu as possible. But sometimes we had to adapt.”

And the Ritz’s restaurant is probably the only one around serving alligator soup. Since California law protects sea turtles, chef Christian Rassinoux improvised on the movie’s recipe. “A lot of people used freshwater turtle,” said Rassinoux. “I think I’m the only one using alligator. But the flavor is closer.”

Still, local diners are smacking their lips. “People who saw the movie and read the articles come in very excited about it and go out very happy,” said Henry Schielein, general manager. And very full.