02/04/2024: Having frequented the establishment almost since its origins, the setting is perfect, in a chalet atmosphere with careful “mountain” decoration. A must-see is the fireplace in which bacon and sausages are smoked (look up a little after entering). When the weather permits, having coffee on the tables in the garden is magical in front of Mont Blanc. The small room at the back is cozy, and if it does not benefit from the view from the room on the garden side, it generally has the advantage of a more cozy atmosphere.
Concerning the cuisine, I find that the last chef hired is quite consistent, with a touch of modernity. A downside in my opinion, but I won't take any stars off for that, is the recurring spicy seasoning in many (too many?) dishes. A little occasionally is fine, but it takes a backseat when one of the guests doesn't take well to it. On our last visit, on the menu there was seasoning or wasabi or chili for the choice of starters. It would have been nice to have one of the two less challenging choices. My partner liked it less than usual because of this.
During another visit, it was the chili on the calf's head that was rather out of place in my opinion, while the sauce is still good, a sprinkling of chili on top seemed too much to me.
That said, the quality of the cuisine is not to be outdone. The fish is cooked perfectly, seared on the outside and tender inside. The icing of the sauces is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the taste buds. The accompaniments are neat and go very well with the whole. As said, the new chef's touch of modernity brings daring and tasty proposals. Make no mistake, we are in the anteroom of the Michelin-starred restaurant at the Albert Premier. If the cuisine here is called country, the quality of the suppliers is undoubtedly up to the standards of a demanding clientele and a leading establishment. And the chef knows how to take remarkable advantage of it.
Finally, the unmissable Vré or dessert buffet has a taste of "chez grandma" (also available for afternoon tea). The flan is particularly successful, we feel that it is generous, creamy, with a soft consistency. Tarts, tartlets, cakes of all kinds, the choice is so plentiful that you will have difficulty not finding what you are looking for. The fruits are not left out to finish on a lighter touch.
And if you don't have a sweet tooth, the cheese cart will be there to provide a successful end to your meal.
Added to the meal is a small plate of “free” appetizers to go with the aperitif, and sweet treats for coffee.
The choice of wines is wide and at a range of budgets allowing you to easily find something to accompany these meals.
A word for the staff, the "new" butler (the old one was rather grumpy in character, but he retired a few years ago, in favor of the current one) is welcoming and ensures his room efficiently. We see him piloting the service, like a conductor in a well-oiled machine.
We find different people in the service "always", which is the sign of a good company, which takes care of its employees.
For seasonal staff, even if we sense less knowledge of the house and the menu, recruitment is always done in favor of friendly waiters/waitresses who listen to customers.
For a tight budget, but with the desire to discover this beautiful address, prefer a weekday lunch to benefit from the lunch menu. If you have the courage, and a huge hunger, try the “all pork menu”!
A complete package is also available for the weekend.
Otherwise the menu presents a varied range of choices for all tastes.
In any case, remember to book, the address is known and popular. It's not uncommon to have the room full quickly, so plan ahead ;)
01/04/2024: Phenomenal dining experience in a really cozy, old style atmosphere. The complementary meat board and desserts after the buffet of desserts was stunning. Highly recommend, best restaurant in the area.
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