When you think of Burgundy, the first thing that will come to mind is the taste of sumptuous red wines, rich with flavour. Although the wine industry is the most famous part of the region, the cuisine of Burgundy is just as delicious. Having influenced each other for centuries, the marriage of food and wine here is perhaps the most harmonious in France. Pairing perfectly, beef is often braised in a red wine jus, and the velvet nature of the reds compliments any stew deliciously. Enjoy these flavours in some of the best restaurants in Burgundy. Thanks to a long history of ducal wealth and royal attention, the cuisine here is made to appease a king’s taste.
Named after one of the most important cities in the region, Dijon mustard is an internationally loved condiment. Used to add a je ne sais quoi to dishes, this condiment showcases just how flavoursome the cuisine of Burgundy is. You’ll also find cassis, a liquor made from blackcurrants and enjoyed as a digestif or as an aperitif in the form of a Kir Royale. Elegant and bursting with flavour, the food and drink of Burgundy are one of our favourite things about cycling here.
Burgundy is also home to the only poultry with a protected AOC status; chicken from Bresse is famous for its quality. This is a result of the wonderfully free nature of their farms, with each bird fed on organic corn and enjoying at least ten metres of open space each. You’ll find that restaurants will go out of their way to use local ingredients and produce. This highlights just how much care and attention the Burgundians put into the quality of their cuisine. With so many great places to eat, it can be hard to choose. Read on to discover the best restaurants in Burgundy.
Loiseau des Ducs, Dijon
Loiseau des Ducs is one of the most prestigious dining establishments in the region. Boasting a Michelin star, the food here meets the high standards associated with this. Loiseau claims their food is fit for the dukes of Burgundy old, and they may be right. Elegance and refinery are found all over the menu, from delicate starters to inventive desserts. Set in a historic hotel, the experience is one of a kind at one of the best restaurants in Burgundy.
The menu here has been specially curated by the chef, Jean-Bruno Gosse, and is filled with regional specialities. He describes the food as ‘frank tastes, beautiful sauces, and respect for the product’; a sentiment shared across Burgundy. Enjoy local beef fillet, with smoked potatoes and an olive tartare. The dish is described as being ‘frosted’ with fresh herbs, highlighting the elegance of the restaurant. Many a guest have also raved about the heavenly cheese selection, so a cheese board as the dessert is very much recommended.
L’essentiel à Beaune, Beaune
Thought to be a hidden gem, L’essentiel à Beaune is the worst kept secret in Burgundy. All the dishes are made on the day, meaning the menu is constantly changing and limited to what the chef knows is best. As such, anything you order is sure to be delicious, brought by friendly waiters in a warm atmosphere. This has the added effect of taking the stress out of ordering; you know whatever comes out is recommended.
The menu is delightfully vague, often only telling you what the meat on the plate will be. So when you order ‘chicken with sauce and vegetables’, what you’ll enjoy is a delicious dish which will delight your taste buds. The chosen garnish and flavours will often change, depending on the season, so what you order is always a pleasant surprise. A showstopper here is their black bun burger, adding a touch of sophistication to the international, classic dish. You’ll have the chance to visit here on day two of our Route des Grand Crus cycling tour; a great place for lunch, rest and recharge before making your way onwards.
Restaurant Le Vendangerot, Rully
With an ideal location and a terrace facing the park in the centre of Rully, Restaurant Le Vendangerot is one of the best restaurants in Burgundy. With a cosy environment and warm service, you’ll leave here with fond memories of the delicious flavours you’ll taste. The food is just as wonderful as the ambience, with a beef fillet that will make all other steaks taste bland by comparison. Such are the claims made by Restaurant Le Vendangerot, and you’ll struggle to disagree.
The menu is classically French, serving all the favourites of the region, including succulent chicken paired with delicious local wine. Once again, the pairing of wine and food can’t be beaten. The vineyards that surround the villages are what make dining in the region so special; there’s always a perfect painting with wine. With a wonderful gourmet selection on the menu, it’s no wonder this is one of the best restaurants in Burgundy.
La Cabane, Puligny-Montrachet
If you’re looking for a unique restaurant that stands out from the rest, then La Cabane is worth taking note of. Boasting a rustic atmosphere, the food is delightful. Found in Puligny-Montrachet, the building mimics the look and atmosphere of a modern log cabin, perfect for lunch. The restaurant is situated on the road to Beaune, making the location ideal.
Enjoy Charcuterie boards filled with local produce, as well as light and fluffy cakes. Hopping off the bike, this kind of lunch is perfect, giving you all the energy you need to carry on the adventure. For something heartier, their smoky pork ribs with frites are a real crowd pleaser. Variety such as this is what makes La Cabane one of the best restaurants in Burgundy.
For more recommendations on the best restaurants in Burgundy, give us a call on 020 7471 7760.