Aux Sablettes - Tournon-sur-Rhône

Aux Sablettes is a few kilometres outside Tournon, but very well placed for the several camp sites and small hotels on the route de Lamastre, and only a 20-minute walk from the Train de l'Ardèche and camp sites on the opposite bank of the river Doux. Looks quite glam and glossy from the outside; rather more homely inside, the kind of atmosphere that puts people at their ease. The proprietor and his wife are chef (with the status of Maître Restaurateur) and front-of-house. On a glorious summer's evening (I chose the covered, but almost outdoor, terrace over the cosy interior) the pace of the meal was perfect: leisurely enough to savour the food and wine, but quick enough for a solo traveller not to get bored. I opted for the 4-course set menu at 25 Euros, which was outstanding value for food of this quality. Frogs' legs, sweet, tender and absolutely lathered in lovely garlic butter; a lamb steak in a rosemary and thyme glaze, served with a small potato pancake and a selection of Mediterranean veg; the cheeseboard; then a rich chocolate fondant served with a feather-light coconut meringue. The bread which accompanied the meal in normal French fashion was (in common with everything else) made on the premises and was of superb quality, if a little crusty for what remains of my poor old teeth.From an excellent wine list (after all, this is one of the great wine areas) I went for a half-litre bottle of Côtes du Vivarais, a full-bodied red of very deep colour which complemented my lamb beautifully. and a coffee to round it all off. For an additional 6 Euros you could up it to five with a fish course, but I was very satisfied and replete with what I had.The food was delicious and of high quality; the level of service and attention was just right; the atmosphere comfortable and relaxed. As civilised and enjoyable a meal as I have eaten in a good long while.

Unfortunately, in March 2022, the restaurant will close for retirement... (Original view) Nazalost, u Martu 2022 restoran se zatvara radi odlaska u penziju...

On top!!! Cuisine and acceuil impec !!! Very well cooked dishes and well followed service. Owner soon retired...so mandatory stop if you pass this

Small very pleasant restaurant, meals quite home, excellent, perfect and very welcoming, very happy to have been able to go before they leave retirement

We ate there today, we have very nice personal treats and quick service damage that it will close,