L'Affenage - Aniane

We had dinner here once whilst staying in aniane. The hosts are absolutely lovely and the food we had was excellent. I've dined in a few Michelin starred restaurants in the UK and the food here would compare very favourably. Definitely recommended.

We stumbled across this little restaurant as we had miss-planned our timings due to a long drive between destinations. It was almost closing time and the restaurant was empty, but it looked sweet and had a few outside tables surrounded by flower and herb boxes! They kindly agreed to serve us. We had a super meal, we both ordered a chicken salad, but it was beautifully prepared and presented. It was not ‘just’ a salad, there were various tastes included that made it quite special. We had some Rose and enjoyed a conversation with the owners who were English, and felt lucky to have discovered it! Coffee was ordered and accompanied by some extra sweet treats, which was a nice touch. A little more expensive than some of the other more local restaurants, but worth it! Seek it out!

We had been recommended to eat here by some people we met in Montpellier. About a 25 minute drive north, It's situated next to the Mayor's office in the quaint village of Aniane and it's well worth the effort of finding!We entered the restaurant, which is rather similar to entering a cave,and as we wandered through on a chilly evening, there was a roaring log fire burning, we immediately felt a glow.Goats cheese salad was amazing, almost too pretty to eat! Followed by veal kidneys in a wine, mustard & cream sauce served in a vol-au-vent, just fabulous. A chocolate dessert left me wanting more it was so divine (and I don't usually "do" puds). My husband's Coquilles, duck & apple sauce & lemon cheesecake were equally declared "best ever". All washed down by a good bottle of local wine. The couple that run this restaurant (English!) seem to have a real understanding and passion for food. The husband is the chef and the wife front of house - a charming, lady. My husband and I have travelled extensively over the years in France and eaten in many restaurants - This simply was amongst the best food we have ever eaten in France. France at it's best. We chatted to a couple of the next table and this was their third visit in two weeks.Warning! Do phone ahead to reserve a table, they are not open everyday - we were lucky! Also they do not take any credit cards, so make sure you have cash on you.

We ate here twice during our short stay in Aniane. Both dinners were outstanding, salmon, steak with delicious desserts. We'll be back! The owners were friendly, spoke English, and provided food and site tips.

As we live in Aniane we have over the years been dining here at the L' Affenage on a regular basis. during the winter months there is a great open log fire to make a great atmosphere lunchtime and evening, summer is good too, although not enough space for full terrace dining as it is situated on a narrow cobbled street right in front of the Mairie. good all round cooking and good selection wines; salads and puddings are Ira's speciality and my favorites!