Lunch was at Au Relais des Ménétriers, a charming Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant in Ribeauvillé. Warm service, cosy ambience, and plates that show care and restraint. I can see why it earned its spot in the guide.

We started with red shrimp skewers resting on sweet melon and cherry tomatoes, fresh and summery. The house-made terrine of chicken, veal and pork, studded with dried fruits and roasted hazelnuts, was hearty and well-balanced.

Mains included a comforting poultry gibelotte with morels and pillowy potato gnocchis, sea bream baked en papillote with vibrant vegetables, and standout for me was a tender Charolais beef steak with pan-seared foie gras and a Pinot Noir sauce, rich and indulgent.

Dessert was a trio of joy: chocolate lava cake with Guanaja dark chocolate, a puff pastry stack with vanilla ice cream and mascarpone cream, and a lovely cheese platter showcasing the region’s best.

Well-executed food, thoughtfully plated. A little more spark in creativity or boldness in flavour might just tip it closer to a Michelin star. Still, it was a delightful stop along the Alsace wine route, one worth revisiting.

 

 

Au Relais des Ménétriers
10 Av. du Général de Gaulle, 68150 Ribeauvillé, France