The South of France, the millionaires playground, isn’t somewhere Elldrew have visited for many years, so we were excited to spend a long weekend there last summer.
Based in Cannes we were spoilt for choice when choosing restaurants, but amongst the culinary delights on offer we found our very favourite nestled outside the city in the artists village of St Paul de Vence. Yes we are, of course, referring to that mythical gem and infamous jet-set hangout that is La Colombe d’Or.
Steeped in history, what was once a humble cafe-bar is now world famous for its collection of art, so grand it could rival many a gallery but also so casual that if you didn’t know, you wouldn’t think you were eating dinner under an original work from the likes of Picasso, Matisse, Léger, Braque and Chagall, all of whom escaped there during World War II and paid for their board and lodgings in art.
While they have a winter indoor seating area the best time to visit is during the summer season where you can feast under the stars in the beautiful walled gardens.
The menu offers up a vast selection of classic Provence dishes. It’s fresh and seasonal with something for everyone from bouillabaisse to foie gras. For Elldrew; the Parma ham with figs was a refreshingly local take on a classic, whilst for main course the filet de boeuf au four was perfectly cooked and accompanied by an indulgent gratin dauphinois.
The flambé Grand Marnier soufflé was the winning dessert, generous both in size and alcohol and, frankly, a little dramatic when served at dusk with a naked flame so close to the priceless art!
What’s more, the house wine from the hotels own vineyard was the perfect summer tipple. A light, refreshing Cote de Provence Cuvée de la Colombe d’Or…we were stunned at the price for the quality and wished we could have taken a case home with us (although if we’re honest after the second bottle and the alcohol filled soufflé we can’t quite remember the precise price, just that it was good value!).
What a dining experience and well worth the 60 min transfer from Cannes. La Colombe d’Or seems to have not let its fame change the intimate charm it offers. Impeccable food and service, it’s been visited by royalty and celebrities far and wide (George and Amal Clooney were there the night before us), and now Elldrew.
We also loved exploring the hilltop village with its winding paths around the many small art galleries and shops…although our handy hint would be to do that before dining; sober the century worn cobbled stones felt treacherous, we wouldn’t like to navigate them after a bottle of that delicious house wine!
For other restaurant reviews check them out here