Lunches: May 2017

Judy & Drew in Auberge St. Jean

Nearby, there are plenty of great restaurants. Some in fabulous locations, others offering extraordinary grub or beer or wine. Still, we each have our favourites and this choice is rarely rational. And the best thing is, its a no-brainer when we have to go somewhere for lunch - provided there is no discussion!

Nanteuil-en-Vallée

A summer lunch in Nanteuil is usually at my favourite place - Auberge Saint Jean. Across the road from the village eglise, sitting on the terrace or perhaps sheltered from the sun under an over-hang of the medieval timbered wall. The menu du jour has always been good and their regular menu is available if you fancy snails or some other local delicacy.

Verteuil Château

You can take-in the village at leisure or at pace viewing some extra-ordinary ancient stone work; if the 8th century abbey happens to open for viewing, you might write-off the afternoon.

But if there is still time in the sun, nearby Verteuil-sur-Charente has a spectacular photo opportunity and a chance for some pink-champagne with or without a dob of ice-cream

Civray

On days when the weather cannot make up its mind, a trip to Civray is always a good bet.

First stop is usually Charroux to visit the Charlemagne Tour. It is supposed to be open for strolling about behind the fence but we have never got our timings quite right: either arriving at lunch-time or, as as happened this year, in the middle of one of those typical French rain storms that deluge for 10 minutes just as you step out of the car.

 Café Gourmand in Civray

Friday is a good time to arrive in Civray when the morning market is on; plenty of great produce on offer and then pop into the restaurant on the corner - if its damp - or enjoy the heat of the day on the pavement when its warmer. This has become Pauline's new favourite because of the Café Gourmand.

And after a lunch its only a step across the street to one of the most unusual romanesque churches in France; the external sculptural work is extra-ordinary but that doesn't prepare you at all for what is inside. Even if you might be teetering on being "churched-out", St. Nicholas will impress.