Courtepaille CHAMONIX - LES HOUCHES

Stayed for lunch on the way down from MB tunnel. Just one waiter and a chef with more than 10 tables full of customer. The waiter was a clumsy boy and didn't know how to prioritise. Waited for one hour for our food. Not a good quality either. Expensive. Not recommended.

Stopped for lunch on arrival in taconnaz, the staff were friendly even our limited French and their limited English we managed to get two mains and desserts, the food was ok after ordering a second drink there was quite await for it to arrive we did remind them a couple of times.

I know it's a chain but the décor is the same, the food is the same, the bored staff are the same. The food was expensive for the small steaks we had and they were not very tender. Chips were ok but of course no vegetables as usual. Had to ask for butter to go with the bread although this was automatically given to other tables. Staff had much more time for French people (although we can and did speak fluent French we were 'clocked' as English as soon as we sat down and spoke to another English family who were struggling with ordering.This is an ok place if you want uninspiring food but why on earth would you in an area with such great restaurants serving regional food? We are certainly sorry we didn't drive further. Beware there is not a lot of parking and at the back this is private and owner not accommodating!

Courtpaille is part of a chain of steak/grill restaurants across France. They are done to a formula as far as decor goes, so if you've been to one and liked it, you will feel at home in another one in another location (sort of comfy fake rustic farmhouse feel to the interiors).Extensive menu includes all the usual grill items plus salads and desserts. Their "1961" menu celebrates their heritage, albeit at today's prices! - there is 'la carte' as well as set 'les menus' options. Good helpings (steak came with pile of good fries and mini mountain of green beans which were piping hot), good wine choice (for a chain) and very reasonable prices. The 'Les Houches' location had great snappy 'service with a smile' and the place seemed almost full by 8pm, which given it's rather remote location on the edge of the village, was encouraging. Outside terrace for hot evenings. Would go again.

Stayed at this hotel in first week of May when travelling thru Europe with cox and kings. The staff was very cordial and helpful. Breakfast was very filling with fresh juices and excellent coffee. Will certainly recommend a stay. Also, its close to the cable car for going to Mount Blanc