Le Merceny Motel

This friendly family brasserie is not far from the busy N4 highway, but as soon as you see the rolling Ardennes countryside, your peace of mind is restored. The interior is steeped in the charm and nostalgia of the inns of yesteryear. Chef Frédéric Bolis finds his inspiration in purebred French classics, to which he is not averse to adding a generous modern spin. Perfectly poached egg in velvety mushroom soup with wild mushrooms and gutsy Ardennes cured ham: the quintessence of fine country fare, as is the case of the meat cooked in a Josper charcoal oven and the punchy sauces. You have here a

David and Olivia embark you on an Ardennes adventure that is both familiar and polished in their welcoming house appointed in a modern vein. The chef’s deft, modern score is an ode to first-class ingredients which are allowed to shout their name. He may underscore scallops marinated in sake with a mirin dressing and textures of yellow beetroot, while Anjou pigeon acquires a worldly dimension in two dishes flanked by autumn veggies, fried panisse (chickpeas) and a knockout port wine sauce. Recognisable, contemporary fare with a respectful light touch that takes regional cuisine to new heights.