We made a reservation for a large group (11 people including 3 pre-teens). The team worked to…read moreaccommodate some uncertainties around the date for our lunch (COVID pandemic!) which was great.
Only for COVID time: The staff is extremely well-trained and invites you to sanitize your hands as you walk-in. Sanitizing stations are across different locations in the restaurant. All staff was wearing masks and guests were wearing masks when not at the table (going to restrooms or going out). We also have our meals outdoor on the terrasse which was even more re-assuring and the view of the Cher was beautiful.
The Restaurant: The building offers everything you can think of for the Loire Valley. Ardoise roof, beautiful stones walls, troglodyte caves, etc...
The menus: Having different options based on season availabilities or what the Chef is in the mood for is awesome. So many options...
The wines: A great selection of Loire Valley wines and suggesting pairing in a beautiful way to please the most difficult palates. We had a Chinon on the recommendation of our waiter and it was perfect for such a large table with many dishes.
The food: now this is the experience. From the presentation to the texture to the taste, everything brought me back to my childhood memories (I grew up there until I was 7 and came back later for few years). The mushrooms, the vegetables, the cheese, everything that was put on our table was impeccable and only tempting to figure out how to get a taste of everything. Always well-balanced, the full menu allowed us to feel satisfied, yet not like we did any excesses.
The staff: Impeccable attention to everyone even in difficult conditions around the pandemic, perfect delivery of all dishes at our table in a timely manner, not rushing us, not pushing us, patiently advising us and best of all, having a lovely conversation with Chef Frederic Arnault for a trip down memory lane.
This restaurant made the top 5 list of recommendations from 2 French Master Chefs. They know their craft and I trusted them. They were absolutely right. Make the stop, enjoy the view of the Cher while having a great experience tourangelle.
