Food In Nantes

The Culinary History of Nantes, France

Nantes, situated in the Loire-Atlantique department in western France, boasts a rich culinary history that is as varied as its landscape. Being close to the Atlantic coast, seafood plays a significant role in the local cuisine. The city is also in a region that has been a major producer of salt through the Guérande salt marshes. This product has been pivotal for preserving food and enhancing flavors. Nantes was historically part of Brittany, and even after its separation, the influence of Breton cuisine remained strong, with recipes including the famous crêpes and galettes. The influence of the Loire River contributes to the prominence of fresh vegetables and fruits in Nante's cuisine, particularly the famed Muscadet wine that perfectly pairs with local dishes. Over time, the culinary offerings in Nantes have evolved, incorporating a range of international flavors, yet always with a touch of French sophistication.

Top 10 Must-Try Food Dishes in Nantes

1. Crêpes de Froment (Vegetarian) — Sweet crepes made from wheat flour served with a variety of fillings like jam, sugar, or chocolate.
2. Galettes de Sarrasin (Can be vegetarian) — Savory buckwheat pancakes that are typically filled with cheese, eggs, and vegetables. They can also be tailored for non-vegetarians with the addition of seafood or ham.
3. Muscadet Wine — A dry white wine produced in the region around Nantes and perfectly complements the local seafood.
4. Beurre Blanc — A buttery sauce often accompanying fish dishes. The sauce, a Nantes specialty, includes a base of wine vinegar and shallots it is vegetarian if consumed without pairing with fish.
5. Gateau Nantais (Vegetarian) — A moist almond cake flavored with rum and covered with white icing, this dessert is a classic Nantes sweet treat.
6. Fruits de Mer (Non-Vegetarian) — An assortment of seafood, which can include oysters, mussels, clams, and other shellfish, typically served on a platter with lemon and dipping sauces.
7. Petit Beurre Biscuit (Vegetarian) — A buttery biscuit that was invented in Nantes in 1886 by Louis Lefèvre-Utile, and has since become famous worldwide.
8. Fouaces Nantaises (Vegetarian) — Similar to brioche bread, these slightly sweet, fluffy buns can be eaten for breakfast or as a snack.
9. Salicornia (Vegetarian) — Often referred to as sea beans or sea asparagus, these salty greens are commonly foraged from the nearby marshlands and make a unique side dish.
10. Soupe de Poisson (Non-Vegetarian) — Fish soup that is rich with flavors of the sea, often served with rouille, a spicy mayonnaise, and croutons.

Top Famous Restaurants in Nantes and Their Signature Dishes

• La Cigale
  4 Place Graslin, 44000 Nantes

  Famous for its Fruits de Mer (Non-Vegetarian) – a lavish seafood platter that captures the essence of coastal dining.

• L'Atlantide 1874 - Maison Guého
  5 rue de l'Hermitage, 44100 Nantes

  Known for its high-end tasting menus featuring dishes like Soupe de Poisson (Non-Vegetarian) and offers exquisite vegetarian options as well.

• Le Nid
  Tour de Bretagne, 32e étage, Place de Bretagne, 44047 Nantes

  Offers panoramic views of Nantes and serves local favorites like Galettes de Sarrasin (Can be vegetarian) with various fillings to cater to all dietary preferences.

• Feydeau Gourmet
  10 Allée Duquesne, Cours des 50 Otages, 44000 Nantes

  A modern bistro with a focus on locally-sourced ingredients and dishes such as Gateau Nantais (Vegetarian).

• Aux Fourneaux
  11 Rue de Bel Air, 44000 Nantes

  Offers traditional French cuisine with a modern twist like a flavorful Beurre Blanc sauce (Vegetarian when not paired with fish).