La Maison d'a Cote

The set lunch was very reasonably priced, and we left feeling like valued guests in the chef’s home. Christophe Hay himself greeted us, took our order, and came to say goodbye, which made the meal especially memorable. The food was presented with real attention to detail, and the service was outstanding. The interior is quirky too, with oddly shaped, mismatched tableware that somehow all fits together. If you’re in the Loire Valley, don’t miss it.

The courses came at a good pace, with hardly any long waits between them, which was a nice change for a Michelin-starred place. Both the flavours and presentation were marvelous. Best meal of our trip, and well worth going out of the city for.

The gastronomic restaurant was the highlight. We went for the full nine-course tasting menu, and it was a delight for the senses, especially the smell, taste, and presentation. We could see into the kitchen, which was crowded and where everything seemed to be under the clock. Amazing experience. The chef was very approachable, especially considering his standing among the world’s top chefs. There are three different places at the same address. The three-star hotel is okay and convenient if you’re combining Chambord with a gastronomic dinner. There’s also a bistro, which I didn’t try apart from breakfast, and that was just okay.

The tasting menu was delicious, but I still remember the « carpe à la Chambord » best. The wine sauce had such a deep, complex flavour. Service was perfect, and the chef came over to chat with us. He was humble, talented, passionate, friendly, and easy to talk to. We went when it had just one star, and I already thought it would soon get two. Looks like I called it!