Vacation in a French city offering remarkable cuisine, vineyards, and luxury accommodations
France's Culinary Gems: A Journey Through Gascony
Nestled in the heart of Gascony, a region in south-west France, lies a collection of culinary treasures that are a must-visit for any food enthusiast. From the Michelin-starred restaurants to the gastro-hotels, these establishments offer an unparalleled dining experience.
La Chapelle Saint Martin
One such gem is La Chapelle Saint Martin, a 19th-century house converted into a hotel and part of the prestigious Relais & Châteaux group. The hotel boasts three restaurants, including Jardin Extraordinaire and Dudognon's Michelin-starred flagship. The gastronomic restaurant at La Chapelle Saint Martin focuses on regional cuisine with flair, offering standout dishes such as foie gras, langoustine with lardo, hake with grapes, and a local veal roast with ceps.
Jardin Extraordinaire
Jardin Extraordinaire, one of La Chapelle Saint Martin's restaurants, offers simple but delicious dishes such as pâté en croute, smoked trout, and beef bourguignon. However, it's not just the food that makes Jardin Extraordinaire special; the restaurant also houses a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers a Surprise Menu.
Etoile Dordogne
Another standout restaurant is Etoile Dordogne, which showcases French gastronomy at its finest. The menu features dishes such as foie gras, river-fresh salmon, Limousin lamb, local cheeses, and a decadent chocolate mousse. A highlight of the dining experience is the standout dish: a perfectly poached lobster with a quenelle of green tomato sorbet and a clear tomato concassé.
Le Vieux Logis
In the village of Trémolat, the Restaurant Gastronomique at Le Vieux Logis offers an unforgettable dining experience. Run by Vincent Arnould, a Meilleur Ouvrier de France and Michelin-starred chef since 2005, the restaurant delivers a balance of richness and lightness. Amuse-bouches stimulate every tastebud, while standout dishes include a lobster salad served three ways and langoustine tartare with oscietra caviar. The desserts are finely tuned, with a blueberry and basil pre-dessert and a hot chocolate and hazelnut creation.
Limoges
Beyond its culinary offerings, Limoges is also renowned for producing high-quality porcelain, considered superior to bone china. The city is famous for its AOP-protected cattle, veal, lamb, and the only AOP-status apple.
Château de la Trayne
Lastly, the Château de la Trayne hotel, while not offering specific information about celebrity visits, is a stunning establishment that adds to the region's allure. The hotel offers 25 bedrooms and is less than a 30-minute drive from Bergerac Airport and Monbazillac.
Each of these establishments offers a unique dining experience, making Gascony a culinary destination not to be missed. Whether you're a food enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable dining experience, these restaurants and hotels provide an unparalleled opportunity to savour the region's flavours and traditions.
