DLX Special Correspondent and model Roxanna Dunlop took a no holds barred tour of France by rail. She spent an unforgettable culinary experience in Bordeaux; here is her report.
I arrived in Paris at 10:52pm on a warm summers eve, unable to sleep for fear that I might miss my early morning train ride to Bordeaux, a city I had, up until then, only visited in my dreams. Everything I had seen, read, or heard about Bordeaux always emphasized wine as the main attraction, but I was en route with something else on my mind – food. Foie gras and fresh bread, ham, ripened cheese, local trout, house made charcuterie, duck, oysters, scallops, more cheese. The list of flavors and textures goes on…
Bordeaux’s restaurant scene is not one to miss out on, but it can be tough to know where to go on your first visit, so we’ve compiled a short-but-sweet list of 3 restaurants that will change your life. Simply knowing that such flavors exist in the world is more than enough to leave you smiling.
BRASSERIE BORDELAISE WINE CELLAR
BRASSERIE BORDELAISE DINNER
Brasserie Bordelaise is one of the favorites. Come here with an appetite and a clear schedule because you will not want to leave. This lively bistro offers an extensive wine selection and hearty food that quite literally feeds the soul. Start with an order of bellota ham and a plate of ripened cheeses, paired with a glass of Côtes de Gascogne Moelleux. For the main course, you cannot go wrong with the duck (if you’re really hungry) or the grilled scallops if you prefer something on the lighter side. Take your time at this brasserie, there is a lot to see, hear and taste. A meal here is a true glimpse into the passionate spirit of the Bordeaux restaurant industry.
COTE RUE BORDEAUX
Côté Rue
Pierre-Damien and Rudy Peurien Ballin are the culinary masterminds behind this chic and extraordinary dining experience, paying close attention to presentation and toying with unique flavor combinations. They present beautiful dishes that intrigue the eyes and indulge the palette. The menu concept is surprising but perfectly executed, offering a €49 tasting menu that changes every two weeks.
COTE RUE BORDEAUX PEACHES
The atmosphere is peaceful and romantic, complete with excellent service and an open-concept kitchen.The perfect spot for a date night in this already romantic city. With each new course begins a new conversation.
BELLE CAMPAGNE, BORDEAUX
Belle Campagne
Tucked away in the heart of the Saint Pierre District, this culinary treasure was one of the first in France to emphasize the importance of sourcing local ingredients. Created two years ago by a couple of young chefs, the vibe, much like the founders themselves, is trendy yet unpretentious. The recipes are globally influenced, but the food is one hundred percent local. Calming and cozy decor creates an atmosphere where you could sit, eat and drink all night.
BELLE CAMPAGNE, BORDEAUX INTERIOR
A few of our favorite dishes: blood sausage and beets (melt in your mouth!), local trout with gnocchi, and egg parfait with mashed carrots. Since, however, the seasonal menu is ever-changing, we recommend allowing your server to pick the dishes for you…and the wine!
Book your next trip to France with Air France and always travel by train with Rail Europe.