Hotel Saint Sernin

There’s a lovely view of the saint sernin basilique cathédrale, and the service was fast, welcoming, and very good. The music gives me so much energy. I prefer sitting inside, though I imagine outside would be super nice in spring.

At 11:45, my mother and I needed a rest and a drink. She was tired from walking with her cane. We picked a table that hadn’t been set for lunch, as other people were having coffee and water, but they kicked us off the terrace even though it was 80% empty because it was “lunch time.” I even offered to get things from the counter inside, but they kept refusing, almost rudely. This place doesn’t seem to enjoy serving people. Feels like another tourist milking joint. Avoid.

We ordered three lunch dishes for three people. The quinoa was okay, but the pastrami bagel and kids’ poulet pane were the worst food we’ve had in France. The male server barely tolerated our limited French, then disappeared with the payment without bringing back the change. He didn’t deserve a tip, but we didn’t have time to chase him for more than 5 euros and felt swindled. This restaurant seems to survive on its beautiful shade tree and location. The spot deserves so much better.

I’d come in with a salad and a croissant in my hand, planning to have coffee, and was immediately told I couldn’t eat that there. Of course I knew that, and wasn’t going to. Who eats a Carrefour salad in a cafe? Then I sat down and was asked what I wanted before I’d even seen the menu, as if coffee was the only thing I’d choose. The coffee was just okay, and I had to ask for a napkin at the end. It felt like the cafe wasn’t for tourists who don’t speak French. The barman seemed to like tourists less, while the other French customers were greeted more warmly.