Where will we eat?

 

"Where will we eat?" A usual question when we head to the South of France from Geneva. Many of the autoroute stops don't allow dogs and the restaurant chains are boring. Some times will go off the autoroute to see what we can find. Friday was the usual dilemma. Do we go in and buy sandwiches and eat in the car? 

Nah, let's leave the autoroute and get off at Montélimar with its castle on the mountain. The city is  known for nougat.

There wasn't much until we saw a MacDos (Mickey Dees to Americans). "I suppose that could be a last resort," I said, but we weren't ready to settle.

There is a row of restaurants and we wandered in Le Moderne, who welcomed us and our dog Sherlock.

The atmosphere was warm with unique artwork.

Almost immediately this was placed on the table. Loved the tie on the yummy bread, even more after I dipped it into the local olive oil. The bits of sausage, also local, were a real taste treat.

We each had a starter. Mousse of foie gras for Rick, who is normally a finicky eater, but wolfed it down. The crust on my starter was so good, I could have made a meal of just that.

Rick's veal was accompanied by original potato bar with bacon in the middle.

My confit canard was topped with mashed potato arranged in pretty little bubbles. Unfortunately, I started eating before thinking to take a photo.

The croutons were so good, that both Rick and I saved them for the last bite.

Presentation is always nice to have and theirs was beautiful and original, but the food exceeded the presentation. The service was friendly and efficient. As I raved about each mouthful, I noticed the Michelin stickers for 2013-2024. They were mentioned in the guide book for each year and we read their write up. Every word was true.

I told Rick, we need to make this a regular stop when we travel back and forth between the two countries.

Better than MacDos and better than a picnic in the car. In fact, I decided it was the second best restaurant I've eaten in for years and years. The other is around the corner from our flat. I just wish Le Moderne was closer to us.

If you are anywhere near Montélimar, it is worth stopping. They speak excellent English. Reservations 04 75 01 31 90. Website www.restaurant-lemoderne.fr Warning. Looking at the photos will make your mouth water even if you just eaten.