★ Michelin€€€€Modern Cuisine
The restaurant of the Hôtel Chais Monnet is housed in the room where cognac was aged in huge century-old barrels (the salle des foudres)! In the intimate-feeling dining areas with their hushed atmosphere, no detail has been neglected, from the exquisite contemporary silverware to the fine glassware. The cuisine is meticulously crafted in order to showcase local ingredients from the Charente terroir: free-range poultry, fish from the fish market, Île de Ré potatoes etc. The chef sets great store by plating his dishes elegantly and perfecting his concentrated sauces, and enjoys experimenting wit
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.6/5 · 101 reviews
Located in Cognac, Les Foudres specializes in modern cuisine. Most reviews praise the exceptional service, refined atmosphere, and high food quality, particularly highlighting perfectly cooked fish and professional sommelier advice. Conversely, some negative feedback notes a lack of surprise or originality in dishes, describing them as conventional. Other criticisms mention inconsistent meal pacing, service oversights such as failing to clarify that wine pairings are excluded from menus, and concerns regarding value. While the establishment generally delivers a high-end experience, individual aspects show variability.
Suitable for diners seeking refined modern cuisine and professional sommelier service, but verify wine policy and menu details in advance.
★ Michelin€€€Modern Cuisine
A little way out of the town centre, this handsome 19C town house is now a luxury hotel, whose first-rate restoration work is particularly visible in the restaurant's swish, elegant dining room. Chef Anthony Carballo devotedly executes two several-course surprise set menus, inspired in part by the estate's vegetable garden. Marbled foie gras dusted in liquorice powder, liquorice reduction and orange-flavoured jelly; medallion of flawlessly cooked croaker, beurre blanc, baby broad beans, green peas and trout roe; poultry incised with foie gras and girolle mushrooms, tartlet of confit poultry le
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.9/5 · 53 reviews
Located in Cognac, Notes has recently earned its first Michelin star, reflected in its near-perfect guest ratings. The cuisine is praised for its creativity, beautiful plating, and technical mastery, with particular acclaim for the pastries and harmonious flavor combinations. Service is generally described as efficient, elegant, and humorous, though some guests noted issues with meal pacing and a lack of sensitivity regarding menu pricing displays. The atmosphere is classy and welcoming, making it suitable for special occasions. While a minority of reviewers questioned the value or cited minor service lapses, the overwhelming consensus highlights the restaurant as an excellent, memorable destination where excellence is a daily discipline.
Ideal for food enthusiasts seeking refined, creative cuisine in an elegant setting.