Arras: Exploring Local Cuisine with Traditional Dishes, Restaurants, and Recipes

Welcome to Arras, a charming city filled with rich history, beautiful architecture, and delicious cuisine. Located in the northern part of France, Arras offers a diverse range of traditional dishes that will delight your taste buds. From hearty stews to delicate pastries, there is something to satisfy every palate. In this guide, we will explore the local cuisine of Arras, recommend some must-visit restaurants, and even share a few recipes for you to try at home.

Traditional Dishes of Arras

Arras is famous for its traditional cuisine, which showcases the region's agricultural bounty and distinct flavors. Here are a few dishes you must try:

• Potjevleesch: This is a classic dish of the region and consists of a terrine made with various meats such as chicken, rabbit, pork, and veal. The meat is cooked in a flavorful broth, then chilled and served cold with pickles or salad.
• Flamiche: A specialty of Arras, flamiche is a savory pie made with leeks, cream, and cheese. It's a comforting and indulgent dish that will surely satisfy your cravings.
• Tarte au Maroilles: Maroilles is a pungent cow's milk cheese that is produced in the region. This tart is filled with Maroilles cheese, cream, and eggs and baked to perfection. The result is a rich and tangy dish that is beloved by locals.
• Carbonade Flamande: Although not exclusive to Arras, this hearty beef stew is a staple in the region. The beef is slow-cooked with onions, beer, and spices, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth dish that pairs perfectly with crusty bread.
• Coq à la Bière: Another beer-infused dish, Coq à la Bière features chicken cooked in a flavorful beer-based sauce. The dish is usually accompanied by potatoes and vegetables, making it a satisfying meal.

Must-Visit Restaurants in Arras

Arras is home to a vibrant dining scene with restaurants that offer both traditional and international cuisines. Here are a few establishments that are highly recommended:

1. Le P'tit Bistrot

Located in the heart of Arras, Le P'tit Bistrot is a cozy restaurant that specializes in traditional French cuisine. Their menu features classic dishes sourced from local ingredients, ensuring an authentic dining experience.

2. Le Jardin d'Alice

If you're looking for a fine dining experience, head to Le Jardin d'Alice. This elegant restaurant offers a refined menu featuring seasonal ingredients and innovative cooking techniques. It's the perfect place for a special occasion.

3. Brasserie l'Univers

For a more casual dining experience, Brasserie l'Univers is a great choice. This bustling brasserie serves up a variety of traditional dishes, including the famous Potjevleesch.

4. Le Coq Hardi

Le Coq Hardi is a local favorite known for its warm atmosphere and delicious food. The menu features a range of French classics, including the beloved Coq à la Bière.

Recipes to Try at Home

If you want to recreate the flavors of Arras in your own kitchen, here are a couple of traditional recipes to try:

Potjevleesch

Ingredients:

• 1 chicken
• 1 rabbit
• 1 pork shoulder
• 1 veal shank
• 2 onions, chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 bouquet garni (a bundle of herbs such as thyme, bay leaves, and parsley)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cut the meats into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large pot.
2. Add the onions, garlic, and bouquet garni to the pot.
3. Add enough water to cover the meats and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 2 hours.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Once cooked, strain the meat and vegetables from the broth. Place the meat in a terrine dish and pour enough broth to cover the meat.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving.

Tarte au Maroilles

Ingredients:

• 1 pre-made pie crust
• 200g Maroilles cheese, thinly sliced
• 100ml heavy cream
• 3 eggs
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Line a pie dish with the pre-made crust.
3. Arrange the Maroilles cheese slices on the crust.
4. In a bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, eggs, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the cheese.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the crust is golden and the filling is set.
6. Allow the tart to cool slightly before serving.

Now that you're armed with knowledge of Arras' local cuisine, it's time to savor the flavors of this enchanting city. Whether you choose to dine at one of the recommended restaurants or try your hand at the traditional recipes at home, Arras is sure to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds.