Au Chapeau Rouge - Chinon

Our group ate dinner here, so there was minimal choice in our courses. There were plates with little amuse-bouches—toasted bread with salmon and sour cream and a flower, and little glasses with a purée of green stuff (pea soup? over a layer of puréed beets. Not especially to my taste, but they were very pretty and others liked them. I had fish terrine for my starter, and Husband had medallions of duck with foie gras. We both had chicken for the main course—tender, wonderful chicken on a bed of dried pear that I thought was onion at first. Lots of mushrooms, a long slice of carrot, and some fava beans. Delicious. We both had the chocolate dessert, which seemed to combine a variety of chocolates—mousse, cake, a crunchy wafer-like stick, and more. The other dessert for our group was strawberry and it also looked wonderful. Local white and red wines were served with the meal.

We had a good meal here but were astonished at how rude the front of house lady was. She didn’t smile once, made no eye contact and sighed very crossly when we chose to sit inside rather than outside she having asked us which we wanted. A lovely setting, Chinon is gorgeous, but she absolutely killed the occasion.

We booked a month in advance and we were happy to go. They responded to all our wishes.

I had the fish of the day for dinner and the flavors were excellent the wine sauce complimented the fish.

If you are ready to take a long meal perfectly French and classic that will engage and diversify your palette, this is the place you need.