The 5-Day Foodie Guide to Bordeaux
The internet is saturated with Paris food guides, but what about those seeking refuge in a smaller, more affordable French city?
I first stepped foot in Bordeaux in my early 20s. I studied abroad in Nice, France for a semester, and some friends and I decided to visit the Saint Emilion vineyard in Bordeaux for a few days. This was my first French city outside of the tropical laid-back lifestyle of the French Riviera or the hustle and bustle of Paris. Don’t get me wrong, Nice has a special place in my heart and I’ve been back several times since my study abroad, but I am now on the hunt for other regions in France with experiences to offer.
Speaking French helps, but even still, try not to fall victim to the romance of just one city in an effort to see more of this beautiful country.
I decided to fly into Paris this time, but I had a sudden change of heart. I took a 2-hour train ride to Bordeaux and decided to spend my week there instead. Take a look at what I found . . .
Bordeaux is on the south-western side of France by the Garonne River. It has roughly 10% of the population that Paris does, with just as much character. While Bordeaux is well known for growing wine, I also found that it is home to some savory eats.
Looking for something sweet?
Pepite Cookie is an adorably decorated cookie shop with amazingly soft cookies. I got a milk chocolate and a double chocolate. They have 3 sizes available for those who have self control (and those who know they do not); mini, ‘moyenne',’ and ‘grand.’
Looking for something upscale?
Ressources is a local Michelin star restaurant known for their unique style of a course menu. They do not do starters, mains, and desserts; they instead organize their dishes by simply savory or sweet. All portions are the same size and I had the privilege of letting the chef choose all of my dishes! I was not dissappointed. I paid about $130 for 5 courses and 3 glasses of wine, which is affordable for a Michelin star restaurant. The wines picked for my dishes by the house sommelier were absolutely perfect and I made sure to keep the names for when I get back home. They have a menu for any taste (I had all seafood) and the service was kind, helpful, and bilingual. You won’t be disappointed.
Looking for true Bordelais?
La Brasserie Bordelaise was the first place I ate while on my trip. Had a beautiful lunch in this classic, French restaurant. They gave me pâté with my bread instead of butter - which is much more filling and unique! The atmosphere was small, yet welcoming with many locals stopping in for lunch during the workday. They had a great wine selection so you’re bound to find something you like, and the service was swift and accurate. Can’t say anything bad about my experience here.