But the hype does live up. Gordes is one of the quintessential provencal towns for a reason! In fact, on our last trip to the French Riviera I had made the mistake of sending us to Gordon, France, when really what I meant (and unfortunately a quick google search would have suggested) was the charming hilltop village of Gordes!
We still managed a countryside picnic back then, a palatial gourmet feast this time!
Welcome to Airelles Gordes, also known as La Bastide de Gordes, as it was formerly a country house owned by nobility, now a marvelous accommodation for anyone looking for a traditional Provence experience with all the modern amenities.
One of which being their breathtaking premier restaurant, L’Orangerie.
We came for the views, first with a stop at Le TIGrr, a pan-asian restaurant with stunning views from Gordes as well and delicious cocktails, live music all in a serene setting which I highly recommend, before our dinner reservation. They have an outpost in Saint-Tropez as well, with similar views, a spot I recommended in my Côte d’Azur Guide as well.
After our aperitif, however, we were most certainly wowed by the phenomenal cuisine, presentation and service at L’Orangerie. Dare I say it was our best meal in France?
And I am including Paris!
Beyond the just the serene setting with mountain views and twinkling trees, the food was outstanding. My favorite perhaps being the first mouthwatering amuse-bouche, chocolate, disguised as a green olive with some sort of cheese if I can remember correctly. Quite literally all my favorite things melded into one delicious bite I plan to savor forever!
We of course loved the fresh baked bread, perfectly sauced turbot and Arthur loved the mackerel, but the crème de la crème was the selection of cheeses at the end, particularly the softest one sourced nearest to Gordes that was exceptional and most certainly not pasteurized as most of the good stuff in France isn’t!
They brought us a beautiful sweet spread for our anniversary making for a perfect end to our evening.
Well that and the wild boar citing on the way home, but no photos to share of that one unfortunately! xx
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