Estanco sur Bargemon

21/10/2025: A tiny jewel in a small village. There were 6 total tables, maybe room to squeeze a 7th. Be ready for a place that oozes charm: ancient wood-beamed ceiling; a large fireplace/oven; a hand-written menu du jour that arrives at your table. My salmon carpaccio appetizer melted on the way down, the large Daurade (sea bream) was perfectly seared outside from the wood fire while soft and savory inside, perfectly accompanied by seared carrots and persimmon (now that's a delight if you've never had one), and rice. OK, I'm not used to the head-on-fish presentation, but, hey, it's France in the countryside. I laughed at some of the negative reviews, like someone who was put off for not accommodating his party of 11. In a 6-table restaurant? Really? Several reviewers found chef-owner Christophe curmudgeonly? As most French, they're reserved until you actually talk with them. I ended up staying well after closing and partying with the chef (trained for 3 years in the US) and a French couple who are also restaurant owners. Now that's a serious recommendation. GO. You'll love it. Pricey? Would you rather eat a forgettable $50 meal or a dreamy $70 meal (appetizer, glass of wine, main, and dessert)?

15/10/2025: Really good French food - with a twist. Nico himself stands in front of the large charcoal oven and prepares fantastic meat dishes etc. It tastes like something! The atmosphere is wonderful and the music is good!