Category: France

Great vegetarian or pescatarian meals found throughout towns and villages in France (not Paris).

The Orangerie, Chenonceau, France

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As promised – The Orangerie at Chenonceau. Another tourist location, but again, well worth a visit. Chenonceau is one of the most beautiful chateaus in the Loire Valley. The entire park surrounding the chateau is breathtaking and deserves a leisurely visit, including lunch!

The Orangerie fits perfectly in this setting. Not only is the restaurant elegant, the food is beautifully presented. We were definitely surprised by the quality of this meal and would recommend it to anyone visiting the chateau, as long as fish is an option in your diet – there are not many vegetarian options. However, we have found that with advanced notice most places will accommodate. Reservations are again encouraged, and be sure to ask for a seat on the terrace!

Vegetarian Options

  • White Asparagus with Goat Cheese Ravioli and Pesto
  • Cheese Plates

Pescatarian Options

  • Caesar Salad
  • Crab with Whipped Cream and Ice Cream of Green Peas, Lime
  • House Cured Smoked Salmon (fantastic!)
  • Mullet with Wheat and Green Pea Risotto
  • Monkfish with Paprika, Artichoke, and Asparagus
  • Fish of the Day

http://www.chenonceau.com/index.php/en/restaurants-a-store/the-orangerie

Cafe Lavinal

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Dining in small towns in Europe has always been the most challenging. European menus in general are not very pescatarian friendly, and the language barrier in small towns is much more pronounced. Because, of that we have learned that research ahead of time, especially when trying to make an appointment, is key. This year, we have a long drive and need to find lunch before a 2:00 appointment at Chateau Mouton Rothschild in Bordeaux. Café Lavinal is located in the small and very unique town of Bages, only a few minutes from our appointment, and it has rave reviews as a place for “foodies”. A traditional style French Bistro with indoor and outdoor seating and wine list to match the reputation of the region. I think both vegetarians and pescatarians could find a great meal.

  • Caesar Salad
  • Salad of Warm Goat Cheese and Honey
  • Smoked salmon, lemon-flavored cream
  • Salmon tartare with dill
  • Fish soup with rouille sauce and croutons
  • Loin of hake with Spanish rice
  • Grilled fillet of sea bream, tomato roasted in olive oil
  • Penne pasta with sautéed vegetables
  • Vegetarian sides offered á la carte
  • Cheese and desserts of course!

Chez Guy

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Chez Guy was recommended to us several years ago before our first trip to Burgundy. We decided not to visit – at the time our diet was even more strict, and we chose to have dinner in Beaune every night so that we wouldn’t need to drive back to the B&B after. Last year, Chez Guy was awarded the “Best of Award of Excellence” by Wine Spectator for their 46 page wine list – and since they are open for lunch I hope we can try it this summer!

The menu is small, but there are two pescatarian options for both appetizers and entrees, and of course cheese, dessert, and wine!

  • Tartare  of scallops  and cod fish with lime, mesclum
  • Perfect poached eggs à la meurette (in Burgundy wine) with buttered croutons
  • Sea bass filet “à la plancha”, roast fennel, black olive tapenade
  • Pollack fish grilled on one side, zucchinis and tomatoes, jus of shellfish

http://www.chez-guy.com