The Best Restaurants In The Loire Valley

Wine enthusiasts and culinary connoisseurs alike are drawn to the captivating Loire Valley in France, a region steeped in both viticultural heritage and gastronomic delights. Amidst the lush vineyards and majestic châteaux, the Loire Valley boasts a culinary scene that’s as rich as its wines. Join us on a journey to explore the top 10 restaurants that should be on your list when visiting this exquisite pocket of France.
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Au Rendez-vous des Pêcheurs

This charming and welcoming restaurant in the cobblestoned town of Blois is housed in a former grocery store and the simple setting belies the innovative and tasty food. Don’t miss the baby pigeon served on a bed of cabbage after an afternoon spent visiting the Château de Blois.

Les Années Trente

Le Lift

For a fresh and unique experience, head to Le Lift in Orléans, which offers a view through the windows of a neighboring park and also offers a terrace with a view of the Loire River. Take in the ambiance as you sample chef Philippe Bardeau’s creative dishes made with local ingredients.

Auberge du XIIe Siècle

Just down the road from the Musée Balzac, in the town of Saché near Azay-le-Rideau, this lovely, historic spot serves up traditional French food in an equally traditional setting. From the amuse-bouche to the last bite of dessert, this meal is a delectable taste of France.

Le Petit Patrimoine

Located on Rue Colbert in delightful Vieux Tours, this reservation-only restaurant is a favorite with locals, who swear by its regional classics. Don’t miss the Rillons de Tours, a delicacy of glazed pork, to which Balzac was partial.

Restaurant L’Odeon

For a more contemporary experience, head across town to this Art Deco dining room near the Tours train station. L’Odeon specializes in fresh and local products, including Loire Valley wines and an assortment of fine cheeses. Try the fixed price three-course dinner, which consists of a seafood starter, main dish of duck and a tasty dessert.

La Licorne

It’s hard to miss this picturesque historic townhouse, which— as the name suggests— is marked with an old-fashioned hanging sign with a painting of a unicorn. Take a seat on the terrace, amidst a verdant floral garden, and tuck into a plate of decadent Triple Sec soufflé.

L’Aigle d’Or

Opt for the prix-fixe menu at this Azay-le-Rideau venue, where chef Jean Luc Fèvre produces interesting and tantalizing takes on Francophone specialties. Of particular note is the dessert of peaches, roasted and served with pistachio ice cream.

Auberge du Cheval Rouge

Innovation is the name of the game when it comes to chef Jacques Guillamat’s creations at this reasonably-priced and modern Chisseaux restaurant. Where else can one order a dish like foie gras flan with a Port gelée?

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