Tours sits at the heart of the Loire Valley, a city where Renaissance châteaux cast long shadows over cobbled lanes and half-timbered houses. While the region is globally celebrated for its crisp white wines and royal history, the local food scene remains a deeply rooted expression of Touraine’s terroir. Dining here is not just about sustenance; it is a slow, deliberate ritual that honors the produce of the "Garden of France."
For visitors wandering through the medieval old town, known as Le Vieux Tours, the aroma of slow-cooked meats and melting butter drifts from centuries-old dining rooms. The culinary identity of the city relies on a specific set of regional staples: freshwater fish from the Loire, tender beef, aged goat cheeses like Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine, and the delicate use of herbs. Finding an authentic meal means looking beyond the tourist menus and seeking out the tables where locals have gathered for generations.
A true traditional French restaurant in Tours is defined by its adherence to classic technique and its resistance to fleeting culinary trends. These establishments pride themselves on consistency, offering dishes such as rillettes de Tours, sandre au beurre blanc (pike-perch in butter sauce), and perfectly executed tarte Tatin. The atmosphere in these venues is often as important as the food, characterized by warm hospitality, starched white tablecloths, and a wine list dominated by local appellations like Vouvray and Chinon.
The dining landscape of Tours offers a charming contrast between rustic bistros and refined gastronomic tables. Some of the best meals are hidden in plain sight on Place Plumereau, where timber-framed facades lean over lively terraces, while others require a short walk to the quieter residential quarters near the cathedral. Regardless of the location, the unifying factor is a commitment to the French art de vivre.
Understanding the rhythm of French dining is essential for the traveler. Lunch is often a structured affair with multiple courses, while dinner begins later in the evening, usually after 7:30 PM. Reservations are highly recommended, particularly for the more intimate dining rooms where seating is limited and the chef is preparing every plate to order.
To help you navigate the culinary riches of this historic city, we have curated a selection of establishments that represent the pinnacle of tradition. These are the places where sauces are still whisked by hand, where game is hung properly in season, and where the welcome is as warm as the crusty bread on the table.
Les Copains d'Abord
| Address | 27 Pl. du Grand Marché, 37000 Tours |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM Friday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:30 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:30 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 02 47 20 29 00 |
I would absolutely return. It was fantastic meal! The waiter was helpful at translating the menu into English.
The scallops were my favorite. I also liked the pear and almond pastry dessert.
He recommended fancy salt options for our meals.
I had an absolutely fantastic time at this restaurant and couldn’t recommend it more. The food was outstanding – perfectly cooked, full of flavour, and beautifully presented.
What really made the evening special was being attended by Killian. He has an impressive knowledge of the wine list and the menu, and he explained both the dishes and the pairings in a very clear and friendly way.
His recommendations were spot‑on and really elevated the whole meal.
On top of that, the service was warm, attentive, and relaxed – he checked in just enough to make sure everything was perfect without being intrusive. Thanks to Killian and the whole team, I walked away feeling very well taken care of and already looking forward to coming back.
An absolutely fabulous restaurant with knowledgeable and friendly staff. As a solo female traveller, I sometimes find it hard to get a table at “peak” times, but I was seated mid-terrasse and made to feel super welcome. Ronan was my waiter and he was attentive to my needs, spoke English (although I tried to speak French), he made exemplary wine suggestions, and I wasn’t rushed in any way at all. The menu was lovely, and the food was delicious.
My only criticism was that the menu stated entree and plat was €21.50 (with some exclusions), but my starter and main were charged separately so €25.50, but I didn’t realise until after and it was so lovely that I don’t mind.
The food was amazing it was classic like not too much things it was a medium menu but the choice was grate.
Fabulous lunch, great service, very good salade de la mer
Restaurant Les Canailles
| Address | 123 Rue Colbert, 37000 Tours |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: Closed Thursday: 7:00 – 10:00 PM Friday: 7:00 – 10:30 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:30 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | 02 47 61 54 33 |
A good but value option bistro in Tours. We sat outside and enjoyed the evening vibes. Food was Ok, good enough quality but not what you get elsewhere. Equally, it was a little cheaper. Not best suited for large groups. Totally adequate.
This is a small family own restaurant The food is delicious. The service great they had the menu in English. The girls speak English. They were helpful, informative, and very professional. I had the sea bass which was excellent with some vegetables first I had the hot cheese with walnuts and maple syrup, which was just too good we also had the polenta good and the pork chop, which was good a little tough but good they came with potatoes those creamy potatoes that make you say oh my God too many calories, but you eat them anyway, I also had the chocolate cake with ice cream. The chocolate cake was not as good as I had hoped because it has that melted chocolate in the center and that’s not something I really like, but I did have some of it. it was a nice dining experience in France, I can’t really get that kind in the states. This kind of home cooking creative food. That only the French really know how to make if you’re in the area make sure you make reservations
Cosy restaurant with side walk seating and good French classics that tastes amazing for the prices. They have a selection of local wines too. We went at 7pm and they were all fully booked except for outside seating. So please call to reserve if you want a table.
We look for regional cuisine in Tours, what this restaurant is.
The appetizer were good, the main dish was disappointing. The vegetables were barely warm and the fish was very small and was not a legal size for me to keep when I go fishing.
The desert was microscopic...
And to finish the bill was substantial... 💲💲💲.
We enjoyed a 3 course formule for lunch. Service was warm and friendly, and the venue was entertaining for people watching along the busy street. The food was very good and looked like art!
La Maison des Halles
| Address | 19 Pl. des Halles, 37000 Tours |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM, 7:30 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM, 7:30 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM, 7:30 – 10:00 PM Friday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM, 7:30 – 10:30 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM, 7:30 – 10:30 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 02 47 39 96 90 |
We came here for dinner on our visit to Tours. Firstly, the staff were very friendly and accommodating to our young baby. I speak a little French, but the waitress was very patient with me. Of the starters, you have to try the egg, asparagus and focaccia, it was just beautiful!!! The salmon tartar was ok, but nothing amazing. The coriander seeds and fennel overpower the salmon, which lacked a bit of flavour. For the main course we both had the Octopus, which was just fantastic! I would definitely recommend this, and it was the highlight of the dinner. The octopus was very cooked well. For desert my wife got the chocolate ball (Pétanque), which was very light and hit the spot! Not too heavy, just perfect. I got the lemon curd desert, but I have to say the chef was trying too hard with this. There was far too much going on. There was a cream, then a lemon curd, more cream, a meringue on top, with white chocolate, a sorbet and meringue pieces. It’s just too much, and way too sweet. I would suggest not trying to have too many elements, and simplifying it, because the lemon curd was delicious
I have knocked a star off because the salmon was a bit bland and the lemon desert was too sweet for my liking. But overall this was a nice restaurant and a tasty meal
Had a very French dinner here together with colleagues, highly recommended by local, amazing food with big potion, my salad was exceptional Asian infusion style, main course l’agnean en deux facon was tender and the delicious in both way, desert was inspired by a famous French game I can barely finish all, the staff were very friendly always with a smell at face and introduced the menu in English patiently
You better book (3rd time lucky for us).
This place has been recommended by many local friends… it was just the best experience we had in France. The food was fine, delicate, delicious and great wine list (small producer of the region)
Our favorite dish was an entre an egg.. yes an egg.. but a way to cook it and prepare it: just magnificent. Congrats to the chef ! We will be back !
An amazing thanks to the team and to Sylvestre....such a fantastic time. Such good food.... OMG
You can't miss this place...
The best ever sweetbread I've ever eaten in my entire life.... that's to say....even l'Arpège was nice...but that crunchy coating.... Somptueux
Wine selection to perfection....
Excellent food, service and atmosphere. Staff were kind, attentif and helpful. There was a “stagiaire” who looked after us tonight, and he was wonderful. If you read my review - thank you!
The menu was incredible, and I wish I could have ordered everything. While they do not offer a menu deal, the food is very good value for price and fair for the quality. I would come back here again and again, and recommend it highly to any curious foodies in the region. They were also very accommodating to a gluten allergy.
Le Tourbouchon
| Address | 125 Rue d'Entraigues, 37000 Tours |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 12:00 – 9:30 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 9:30 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 9:30 PM Friday: 12:00 – 9:30 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM, 6:30 – 9:30 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 02 47 20 64 70 |
Best experience in Tours so far!! The host was passionate about food and produces original versions of traditional recipes 😄 The wines are amazing … I had a white regional wine (white garnache) called “Le facteur a vélo” and a red one to pair with the cheeses “L’improbable” Both fantastic wines. The dish was also excellent and nicely cooked. I ate in the garden which has some cosy, fairy atmosphere. I will come back for sure 👌🏻
Supernice place, with a garden where you eat in a very familiar style
Silence and delicious food
Excellent place.
We discovered this establishment by chance and we weren't disappointed.
It's run by two passionate people who offer homemade dishes paired with wine.
If we're ever back in Tours, we'll definitely return.
An excellent restaurant with a very friendly owner where everything is homemade. The cuisine is simple yet sophisticated, as the chef (owner) adds his personal touch to the recipes. It's refined and inventive. The atmosphere is very pleasant, and the service is excellent, with the dishes explained to you without the annoying, showy presentation of chefs and the infamous swirl of vinegar. We'll be back in the spring for lunch in the garden.
A small, hidden restaurant tucked away on a residential street, but very charming! The welcome was friendly and warm, especially since we were with regular friends, but above all, the food was incredibly delicious and the wine recommendations excellent. The terrace wasn't open for the season yet, but what little we glimpsed from the windows looked splendid...
Le Petit Patrimoine
| Address | 58 Rue Colbert, 37000 Tours |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM Friday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 02 47 66 05 81 |
Well worth the visit if you are in the area. The food is wonderfully flavourful and fresh , easily the best I had in the area and some of the best food I’ve tried.
I ended up paying €97 for 2 set menus(full 3 courses) ,one half bottle of some of the best wine I’ve had and an aperitif.
Me and my partner managed to get a table at peak time on a Saturday without booking but I would say we got lucky in that regard so your experience may vary.
Fabulous little restaurant with a cheery, helpful welcome from the staff. Delicious and original takes on both classic and unexpected dishes, all beautifully presented. Good choice of drinks including the restaurant's very refreshing own beer. Excellent meal, lovely surroundings, great vibe.
Must try! One of the best meals we had while we were in France. I had the roasted eggplant with tahini sauce and my husband had the pork loin on some creamy sauce. We thoroughly enjoyed it. It’s a small place so seating is limited.
Food was delicious and could not be faulted. The service on the other hand, could be. The gentleman with short black hair was extremely friendly. Unfortunately the blonde woman serving our table was obnoxious and couldn’t hide her dislike of foreigners in the slightest. When we spoke in broken French she said she did not serve foreigners. Very rude. Her colleague did serve us but it put us off from returning again the next night. I otherwise would have returned because the food was delicious.
Food is good, wine is friendly.
Le Vieux Mûrier
| Address | 11 Pl. Plumereau, 37000 Tours |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM Friday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM Sunday: 2:00 – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | 02 47 61 04 77 |
Great French house food always made to perfection. The weight staff is extremely attentive as well. I’ve been there three times and will be coming back again!
We visited for Sunday dinner and found the menu somewhat limited compared to what we expected. The food was decent and enjoyable enough, though it didn’t particularly stand out. Service was on the slow side, and it was often difficult to get the attention of the waitstaff when we needed something. On a positive note, the wine was pleasant, and the outdoor seating area provided a very nice atmosphere. Overall, an okay experience with some room for improvement in service and menu variety.
A nice place in one if the main squares if Tours centre. Nice cocktails and cheese- charcuterie plate. Also the staff was friendly but a bit in a rush, maybe because of how busy it was.
Best service we’ve received in France, truly great! The servers were hustling on a very hot day, very impressive. Food was fantastic!
Nice cafe with very efficient service. Food was good , the burger was very original with chicken , goat cheese and blackberry jam
L'Épopée
| Address | 19 Rue du Maréchal Foch, 37000 Tours |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 7:30 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:30 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:30 – 10:00 PM Friday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:30 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:30 – 10:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 09 56 41 60 97 |
Great dinner on our last night in tours. A delicious menu, and super great value for cost! The steak was sizable and the Bernaise was delicious - the mousse had a little orange zest and incredible too. Everything we had was so good! Would highly recommed.
Everything was very delicious, the staff was very kind and helpful.
Excellent meal! Great food, great wine and delicious desert. Definitely worth a visit.
The restaurant was beautifully decorated. The welcome was very friendly. The service was pleasant and quick. There was a good selection of wines. And most importantly: everything was delicious! A flawless experience for us, which we will gladly recommend.
A wonderful discovery! This restaurant offered a warm welcome and a great sense of humor. The dishes were delicious and beautifully presented from appetizer to dessert, not to mention the excellent wine recommendations. Kudos to the chef for his skillful flavor combinations.
Highly recommended!
Restaurant Le Turon
| Address | 94 Rue Colbert, 37000 Tours |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM, 7:00 – 9:30 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: Closed Thursday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM, 7:00 – 9:30 PM Friday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM, 7:00 – 9:30 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM, 7:00 – 9:30 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM, 7:00 – 9:30 PM |
| Phone | 02 47 66 14 25 |
A fantastic dining experience in Tours! Booking through the restaurant’s website was easy and highly recommended, as almost every table was occupied when we arrived. We ordered 2 starters and 2 mains, all delicious, with complimentary rillettes served after ordering. Great food, attentive service, and an overall perfect experience!
Really delicious food and friendly staff. We were encouraged to try the recommended appetizer of the day: lobster roll, and it truly did not disappoint! Fresh lobster, and the dishes were very well plated. Even the potato gratin was made so delectably with ultra thin slices and melt-in-your-mouth buttery texture. Very interesting old-style decor with two different types of walls on either side. Definitely recommended!
Booked last minute on the day of. So glad I did as we witnessed many people being turned away who didn't have reservations. Main floor of restaurant seats 34 & outdoor seats 8.
There is a basement which may be good for large groups but some without reservations weren't interested once they took a look.
Staff were very friendly, speak good English & were busy working as a team to service the customers.
Had the smoked ham croquettes which were on the daily specials board. Then had the cod from the everyday menu. Both were excellently prepared. Even the amuse bouche was a delicious tune pâté. Washed it all down with a nice glass of blanc de blanc champagne.
Great place to go for a delicious slow lunch. Went as a group of 3 so got to try 3 different entrees, mains and desserts which were all good. The ceviche was the highlight with it's fresh, tangy flavours. The cheesecake also deserves a call out with it's creaminess, balanced with Greek yoghurt and blueberry sauce.
A friend recommended we try this restaurant during our recent visit to Tours and we were not disappointed. Both the service and the food were excellent. Save room for dessert because the chocolate mousse and panna cotta are not to be missed!
Au jardin Comme à La Maison
| Address | 21 Rue Constantine, 37000 Tours |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 PM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 PM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 PM – 12:00 AM Friday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 PM – 2:00 AM Saturday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 PM – 2:00 AM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 06 70 88 41 68 |
We just had a wonderful dinner at Comme à La Maison. We weren't sure what restaurant to pick, but I'm really happy that we chose this one. It is intimate and cozy, totally authentically local and quite high quality. The food was very delicious, and the cocktails and wines were amazing. The couple running the place were super friendly, spoke great English, and were undeniably skilled in the culinary arts. They accommodated our picky kid quite readily as well. At the end of an amazing meal, I got an education in the finer points of the different kinds of Chartreuse digestifs, with the kind of explanations and descriptions which you can only get from a true expert. I certainly recommend you try this place for a nice leisurely fine dining experience.
Upstairs very small private space. Fabulous food. We’ve been in France four weeks and best meal yet. Ava (sp) was the cook. The cheese quiche was superb. My wife had chicken and I had a vegetable plate. Excellent. Cab Franc from Loire Valley topped off the meal. Excellent service from our waiter.
Excellent dinner at Au Jardin. We had the 3 course, chefs tasting. It was reasonably priced especially for the location. We enjoyed everything served. Some of our standout favorites were the goat cheese and foie gras. Highly recommend it for anyone in the area. 10/10.
A small place with a lot of heart and soul. We had the veal and what we call in Canada steel head fish (a cross between salmon and trout). Before dinner we had the “Complete” (various cheese and meats with bread served on a wooden board). All of it was excellent and the waiter was very helpful to ensure we had the best experience. The local beer was excellent too. Highly recommend this place and will be back when we come to Tours again.
We loved our relaxing visit here. Our party of 5 was taken care of very well by the owner and the lovely chef. The food was great, we had the lasagna and fish and chips, plus excellent cocktails and good wine recommendations. The owner even gave us tips on local wine tasting places in Chinon. He obviously cares very much about his guests' experiences.
La Table Ronde
| Address | 126 Rue Colbert, 37000 Tours |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 7:00 – 8:30 PM Thursday: 7:00 – 8:30 PM Friday: 7:00 – 8:30 PM Saturday: 7:00 – 8:30 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 1:00 PM, 7:00 – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | 02 47 64 25 88 |
Second time here and just as good as the first! Favorite restaurant in France! The care for the menu is impeccable and always a new experience when we go!
The reviews weren't lying! In our five day trip we had a lot of good food but this was by far the best experience we had. Not not just an absolute steal but a culinary heist in broad daylight!
The chef/owner is really welcoming, the selection of foods and wine was excactly right and his in depth knowledge, technique and creativity really came through with every single dish.
Please do give this place a try.
We were looking for a authentic French restaurant and we were so happy to find this one!
Great service, very friendly and helpful.
We tried several dishes with wine recommended by the host and all was great!
The cheese degustation is a separate experience - if you order a cheese plate for dessert, you get to choose 4 kinds of cheese from a beautiful wooden table. You get a presentation about the cheeses and help to reject the 4 according to your taste preferences. Home made ham on top of it was delicious as well.
The interior is very cozy and authentic, even the knight is adding to the atmosphere:)
We also loved the music.
Highly recommend this restaurant!
PRO'S: La Table Ronde' is a fine example of authentic French Loire Valley cuisine. Our group had a wide selection of dishes, an excellent local wine list and all you should expect for a fine dining experience.
CON'S: None
SUMMARY: La Table Ronde' is worth the dining experience if you visit Tours France
Great dinner during our stay in Tours. Owners were very friendly and welcoming. All the dishes were cooked perfectly with fresh ingredients and creative flavors. Highly recommend. Reservations required.
Au Lapin Qui Fume - Restaurant Traditionnel Français Tours
| Address | 90 Rue Colbert, 37000 Tours |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM Friday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 02 47 66 95 49 |
Service is great, friendly, no stress. And food was verry good! Thanks from Austria!
What a great French gastronomic adventure. A small menu, but packed with wonderful dishes. It was uncrowded when we arrived at 7:30 on a Tuesday and we were quickly seated inside. An English language menu was delivered. We chose to get a starter and main combination with another main dessert combination. The shrimp with zucchini pasta was excellent. The mains consisted of the rabbit and fish stew. Again, a delicious choice for both. Then the duo of chocolate. Wow! Service was excellent also.
We chose the wine from Sancerre. Tres bon.
We went today to celebrate my birthday and I can't emphasise enough how much we enjoyed it. We eat out regularly and this will be a stand out meal for us to always remember as amazing. The shrimp pasta starter was especially standout and the cod main as well as the 6 small desserts with coffee. My partner loved his pork and his apple tart with black pudding and chocolate cake too. The service was excellent and they were very polite and friendly even when obviously busy. We had white sparking wine which was wrapped in an iced sleeve. We would definitely prioritise a return if we ever visit again.
An excellent restaurant with outstanding food. Every bite is a true delight for the palate. Be sure to try the Tartare Charolais, which is finely chopped rather than minced. The duck magret burgers are also exceptional. The entire staff is incredibly welcoming and professional.
We randomly passed by this restaurant. Food was absolutely delicious, but price was a bit high. Highly recommend!
Les Fines Goules
| Address | 6 Rue Rouget de l'Isle, 37000 Tours |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM, 7:00 – 9:30 PM Tuesday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM, 7:00 – 9:30 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM, 7:00 – 9:30 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM, 7:00 – 9:30 PM Friday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM, 7:00 – 9:30 PM Saturday: Closed Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 02 47 28 15 29 |
We had the 25 euro formula and it was a top quality meal, perfectly cooked, presented and delivered in a friendly manner. Excellent value for the quality!
The food at this restaurant was absolutely amazing—beautifully prepared and full of flavor. Unfortunately, the experience was completely overshadowed by the behavior of the staff.
From the start, the host only addressed my husband and did not acknowledge me at all, which felt blatantly misogynistic. During our meal, when we asked a question about a menu item (specifically what “snacked” meant, as we interpreted it to mean quickly seared), the server responded dismissively, saying she didn’t know “how we say it in Canada,” in a rude and condescending tone.
This kind of attitude—both sexist and borderline racist—made us feel uncomfortable and unwelcome. No matter how good the food is, respect and hospitality matter just as much. Very disappointing experience.
We had the 25E 3 course lunch. The food was very good and the rice pudding dessert excellent. Both waiters were very attentive and happy to switch to English when we let them know we were from Australia.
Highly recommended
The food is Michelin star level. Very well priced, and good quality wine list.
Nothing stands between the chef of this place and world domination. Best meal I had in Strasbourg😋
Tips for Choosing a Traditional Restaurant in Tours
Selecting the right table can make or break your experience in the Loire Valley. Because the standard of cooking is generally high, the difference between a good meal and an unforgettable one often comes down to the details of how you choose and how you order. Navigating the local customs will ensure you dine like a true Tourangeau rather than a passing visitor.
Look for the "Fait Maison" Label
Since 2014, French law requires restaurants to indicate if their dishes are homemade. Look for the "fait maison" logo or text on the menu. If a restaurant proudly displays this, it means they are preparing dishes from raw ingredients in their own kitchen, a key indicator of a traditional establishment rather than a place relying on industrial catering suppliers.
Prioritize Local Loire Wines
A traditional restaurant in Tours will take immense pride in its wine list, specifically its representation of local growers. Avoid places offering only generic Bordeaux or Burgundy. You want to see a deep selection of Vouvray, Montlouis-sur-Loire, Chinon, and Bourgueil. If the list is exclusively local, it shows the chef cares about pairing the food with the soil it came from.
Inspect the Menu for Seasonality
French traditional cooking is intrinsically tied to the seasons. If you see fresh asparagus in spring, morel mushrooms in late spring, or game dishes like wild boar (sanglier) and venison in autumn, you are in the right place. A menu that never changes and offers out-of-season produce is a red flag for a kitchen cutting corners.
Embrace the "Formule" or "Menu"
To experience the best value and the chef’s true skill, order the set menu (usually a "Formule" or "Menu du Terroir"). These multi-course offerings are designed to showcase the restaurant’s signature dishes at a fraction of the cost of ordering à la carte. It is the most authentic way to eat and allows you to try a starter, main, and dessert.
Be Patient with the Service
Traditional service in France is not slow; it is deliberate. The meal is the main event of the evening, and the staff will not rush you or bring the bill without being asked. Do not interpret a lack of hovering as neglect. Enjoy the pace, linger over your coffee, and ask for the addition (l’addition) when you are ready to leave.
Brush Up on Basic French Greetings
While many servers in Tours speak English, the door to a warmer experience opens with a simple "Bonjour" or "Bonsoir" upon entering. Making an effort to greet the staff and say "Merci" goes a long way in establishing rapport. In traditional establishments, politeness is reciprocal and sets the tone for a welcoming meal.
Dining in Tours is an immersion into a culture that values time, craft, and conversation. The clinking of glasses filled with chilled Vouvray, the scraping of plates clean with a torn piece of baguette, and the laughter of families sharing a Sunday lunch are the sounds of the city. By choosing a traditional restaurant, you are not merely eating; you are participating in a history that has been simmering for centuries.
As you wander back through the illuminated streets after your meal, passing the stone walls of the Basilica of Saint Martin or the quiet flow of the Loire, you will understand why this region has long been considered the soul of French gastronomy. The memory of a perfect sauce or a perfectly ripe cheese will linger long after the plates have been cleared.
