Brantome is a small, charming town. About 2 hours from Bordeaux. We were here in late May right…read morebefore the start of the vacation peak.
This is the Hotel Charbonnel's restaurant and we ended up here for dinner two nights in a row.
The dining area is understated and nothing fancy. They do have a nice outdoor seating area with a great view of the La Dronne river and surrounding scenery. We were inside for both meals as still slightly chilly in the evenings.
We started with some fish mousse. Savory, light and delicious! Champagne to pair with our starters.
We ordered a couple of the Foie Gras for sharing which was excellent! The Omelette was billed as an entree but We ordered it for sharing. Never had it as a starter and the Truffles took it over the top.
For main, I ordered the Filet with Truffle sauce topped with Foie Gras (Rosinini style) and potatoes. Filet was so tender and cooked a perfect medium rare. Foie Gras topping takes it to the moon! One of those meals you don't want to end.
The second visit we decided on last minute as it was around 8. We thought they might be booked but they had a table for us. Has to be because we are at the end of off peak season.
For starter, it was the Artichoke dish. Amazing flavors coming from the Chèvre, Jambon crisps and fresh artichokes. I wanted to order the Filet again but was convinced to order/share the 2 person Beef Wellington (great decision!.). Don't know how they prepared it without a pre-order but this is France & no matter. The Wellington was brought out whole and cut in front of us in half. The steam/Truffle aroma was sublime. Puff pastry was perfect and the mashed potatoes behind the steak were a surprise. Don't know how they cooked the steak so perfectly and the Truffle sauce-Wow! Although billed for two, we couldn't finish a good amount of the potatoes and puff pastry shell.
Other dishes that were ordered and enjoyed and all excellent: Asparagus and Escargot starter, Lamb, Shrimp Entrees. Had the 3 Chocolate dessert and it was light and a chocolate lover's delight. Prix fixe for 58 Euros which is such a bargain!
We also had a bottle of Château De Tigrand (local/small batch) and finished with the Broderie XO Cognac.
Two unexpected and amazing dinners In a row at a Hotel restaurant. How lucky can a guy get?!
Service was exceptional! Courses were timed perfectly. If you are anywhere near Brantome, make this culinary adventure stop. I can't recommend enough!