A Gastronomic Tour: Five Noteworthy Diners in Versailles

Versailles, ranking third in France's most frequented sightseeing spots following the renowned Louvre and the eye-catching Eiffel Tower, has remarkably transformed into an exquisite culinary paradise. Previously, the Versailles' food scene was primarily dominated by lackluster sandwiches and salads served in eateries catering to tourists. The dining experience in this enchanting hub, standing at a modest distance of 13 miles from Paris, puzzlingly gave less credit to Château de Versailles, its strikingly splendid 17th-century attraction mostly. The existing palace is a marvel mainly commissioned by Louis XIV, the infamous gourmand king. His royal feasts typically featured a range of sumptuous delights, from underwater delicacies such as oysters and lobster aspic to appetizing game bird dishes like duck croquettes and an enticing morel mushroom soufflé. Embracing a celebrated culinary past of such grandeur, Versailles is now witnessing an exciting gastronomical revival. Proficient chefs are establishing topnotch restaurants, causing a significant shift in the food scene. These establishments are so commendable that they are drawing food lovers from the heart of Paris itself. This food movement, celebrating a unique blend of historic and modern flavors, is placing Versailles steadfastly on the world's gastronomy map.

Discover the Magic of La Mangette

Welcome to La Mangette, a charming eatery nestled in the heart of Versailles. The magic behind this refreshing simplicity is Chef Cécile Hatchuel, she treats food lovers with delightful menus that change daily, inspired by locally and sustainively sourced seasonal ingredients. Past menus have taken guests on culinary journeys, featuring dishes such as vegetable-infused split pea soup, hearty beef meatballs with tomato-pepper sauce twisted over orecchiette pasta, and a sweet conclusion of creamy, light mascarpone dessert dotted with fresh raspberries. Options for vegetarian food lovers are never missing in the menu. Catch the delicious lunch served from Monday to Friday or their special dinner, exclusively offered on Fridays. Appreciate the spontaneity - no reservations required.

Visit their page at facebook.com/mangette for more on their culinary delights. Situated at 38, rue Carnot, please note there is no phone service provided.

A Culinary Journey at Ore

Entering Ore, a gourmet restaurant nestled within the grounds of Versailles, feels like stepping into a gastronomic haven curated by the renowned chef, Alain Ducasse. The eatery, which just debuted last month, serves up unique dishes such as succulent roasted guinea hen accompanied by sweet peaches and fennel, or a light yet satisfying steamed turbot dressed in a truffled hollandaise sauce. The menu at Ore is truly a treasure trove of fine French cuisine, offering food connoisseurs the opportunity to experience the brilliance of Ducasse's culinary visions - all within a relatively accessible price range.

To truly experience the grandeur of this culinary gem, a visit to Ore is mandatory. You will find it in Château de Versailles, at the Pavillon Dufour on the 1st Floor, Place d’Armes - reachable via this number, 33-1-30-84-12-96. For further details, you can visit their official website: ducasse-chateauversailles.com.

Savor the Splendors of La Table du 11

Attracting gourmands from every corner, the trailblazing Chef Jean-François Lavergne Morazzani returned to his roots after honing his skills with Master Chef Yannick Alléno in Paris. Setting up his own elegantly casual bistro, Lavergne Morazzani offers innovative market-inspired cuisine that's made him a culinary superhero in his home front.

Always colorful on the plate, La Table du 11 serves standouts like shellfish given a burst of freshness with coriander, complemented by the intense flavor of poutarge (hardened mullet roe). They also serve cod enhanced by the earthy notes of wild herbs and sweet carrots. The dessert of tangy red berries coupled with nutty pistachios, and creamy coconut has also been creating waves of delight among diners, making La Table du 11 the most popular dining spot in Versailles.

Address: 11, rue Saint-Honoré; Telephone: 33-9-83-34-76-00; Visit: latabledu11.com

Discover Nuance

Nestled just a stone's throw away from grandeur of the palace, there sits an ambient bistro run by the friendly and skilled chef, Franck Loeuillot. Nuance offers patrons an affordable taste of French culinary indulgence, with items such as homemade foie gras terrine complemented by fig chutney, and a belly-warming serving of braised pork belly with white beans. The dining experience is enhanced by the establishment's attentive service and the availability of al fresco dining during pleasant weather.

It is conveniently located at 10, boulevard du Roi, and is reachable at 33-1-39-49-58-35. Immerse in the inviting flavours at their website restaurant-nuance.com.

The Notable Le Sept

For wine connoisseurs seeking gastronomic satisfaction, Le Sept, the cozy culinary gem owned by Florent and Sophie Pavillard, is a significant standout. With a collection of over 200 assorted wines, predominantly biodynamic, inspiration for an amicable evening flows freely. They offer a unique menu with a distinct dish simmered to perfection each day. Delight in delectably moist classics like navarin d’agneau, a traditional lamb stew with crisp vegetables, or the creamy blanquette de veau. Fans of heartier fare may prefer their succulent steaks or exquisitely roasted chicken.

The menu at Le Sept changes daily to ensure the freshness and quality of the ingredients used in its famous slow-cooked dishes. It's no wonder that reservations are highly recommended - this bistro is a hit among locals and tourists alike. Take the opportunity to complement your chosen delicacy with a selection from their expansive wine list. Every bottle is handpicked by the owners, ensuring a top-tier wine experience to all its patrons.

You can find more information about the bistro or secure a reservation at their official website, lesept-versailles.com. Their restaurant is located at 7, rue de Montreuil. For further inquiries, you can reach them at 33-1-39-49-55-27.