Café Lavinal - Reservar una mesa

If ever there was a restaurant worth making a major detour just to sample, then this is it. I was working in Bordeaux, happened to be in Pauillac and joined two colleagues for a totally unplanned lunch here. The food & service was so good we spent the rest of our three weeks in France talking about it. I had duck which was simply the best I'd ever had - a friend had the seafood salad and it was so good he was heartbroken when he realised we didn't have the time in Bordeaux to make it back here for a return visit. As well as a gorgeous setting in Bages, surrounded by some of the best vineyards in France, Cafe Lavinal provided excellent service with a simply stunning menu. It was so good that when I hear people speaking about top notch French restaurants, I close my eyes and think of this place. One of the best. One tip - make sure to allow plenty of time to savour your food and then do a little wine shopping in the adjacent vineyard shop.

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I don't like writing poor reviews but it's hard to believe that the brilliant chef at Cordeillan Bages is responsible for this place. It's 1% of the service and quality level at best, I suppose they just have too many new customers and just don't need repeat business. Perhaps it's an English thing? We've been here a few times when staying at CB because there is so little choice in the area when the chateau's restaurant is closed. But it is SO awful, service takes an age, it's offhand at best, food describes as mediocre is kind.Cafe Lavinal gets lots of negative comment so why don't the owners do something about it!?

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Not expecting to stumble onto such an interesting place. 3 course lunch. Service appropriate. Very good. They love working at their restaurant which is important to find in staff. Food was excellently prepared from the amuse bouche to the desert. Low salt content which was greatly appreciated as the food flavour takes precedent over sauce. Terrasse to die for and super quaint village ambiance around the Restaurant. Strong recommendation if looking for an excellent menu serious staff and superb and different ambiance.

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When you imagine as an American what a "dreamy" French restaurant would be, this is it! I have been to France many times and have eaten in many restaurants but this one is special. The location, the aesthetics of the restaurant and of course most importantly the food was just perfect. It is like something out of a Hollywood movie set but it is real. Would highly recommend if you are in this area of the Medoc.

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This is what I love about French food - great ingredients cooked simply. Service was friendly and good. Wine list is interesting. Décor is typically old fashioned French, so don't expect sophistication. Great value - authentic French experience.

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