Exploring Reims: Local Cuisine, Restaurants & Traditional Recipes

The Culinary Delights of Reims

Reims, located in the heart of the Champagne region in France, is not only known for its spectacular cathedral and champagne production but also for its mouthwatering local cuisine. With a rich culinary heritage, Reims offers a diverse range of traditional dishes that are sure to delight any food lover. From hearty stews to delicate pastries, there is something to satisfy every palate in this vibrant city.

Local Cuisine

Reims is famous for its Charcuterie, a variety of cured meats, and regional cheeses, such as the renowned Langres and Chaource. These local delicacies can be found in artisanal shops and traditional markets throughout the city. Additionally, the region is known for its succulent game meats, including venison and wild boar, which are commonly featured in traditional dishes.

One iconic dish of Reims is the Tarte au sucre, a traditional sweet pastry tart with a caramelized sugar filling. It is a perfect treat to satisfy your sweet tooth. Another popular specialty is the Potée Champenoise, a hearty stew made with a variety of vegetables and meats, often including pork, sausage, and smoked ham hocks. It is a comforting dish that warms the soul, especially during the colder months.

For seafood lovers, the Maroilles Mussels, cooked with Maroilles cheese and cream, is a must-try. The combination of fresh mussels with the rich and creamy cheese creates a tantalizing flavor that is unique to the region. Another seafood delight is the Matelote, a fish stew made with local river fish, white wine, and mushrooms.

Restaurants in Reims

Reims boasts a vibrant dining scene with a wide array of restaurants catering to all tastes and budgets. Whether you're looking for traditional French cuisine or international flavors, you'll find plenty of options to choose from. Here are a few notable restaurants that are highly recommended:

• Le Parc Les Crayères - This Michelin-starred restaurant offers a refined dining experience with exquisite French cuisine. Located in a beautiful estate, it is known for its impeccable service and carefully crafted dishes.
• L'Assiette Champenoise - Another Michelin-starred gem, this restaurant is renowned for its innovative and creative dishes. The chef incorporates local ingredients and traditional flavors to create a unique culinary experience.
• Brasserie du Boulingrin - Situated in a historical building, this cozy brasserie serves classic French dishes with a modern twist. It is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
• Bistrot La Cave - If you're looking for a more casual dining experience, this charming bistro is the place to go. It specializes in traditional French cuisine, including the famous Potée Champenoise, in a relaxed and friendly setting.

Traditional Recipes

If you're eager to recreate the flavors of Reims in your own kitchen, here are a couple of traditional recipes to try:

Tarte au sucre (Sugar Tart)

Ingredients:

• Shortcrust pastry
• 200g sugar
• 50g butter
• 2 eggs
• 100ml heavy cream
• A pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Roll out the shortcrust pastry and line a tart tin with it.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the sugar, melted butter, eggs, heavy cream, and salt. Mix well.
4. Pour the filling into the tart tin.
5. Bake for approximately 30 minutes until the tart is golden brown and set.
6. Allow it to cool before serving.

Potée Champenoise

Ingredients:

• 500g pork belly, cut into chunks
• 4 smoked ham hocks
• 4 sausages
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 4 leeks, trimmed and sliced
• 4 potatoes, peeled and quartered
• 1 cabbage, cut into wedges
• 1 bouquet garni (thyme, bay leaf, parsley)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, sear the pork belly, ham hocks, and sausages until browned. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté the onion, carrots, leeks, and potatoes until lightly golden.
3. Return the pork belly, ham hocks, and sausages to the pot. Add the cabbage and bouquet garni.
4. Cover with water and season with salt and pepper.
5. Simmer for approximately 2 hours until the meat is tender and the flavors have melded together.
6. Remove the bouquet garni and serve the Potée Champenoise hot, allowing each person to enjoy a variety of meats and vegetables.

Discover Reims

Explore the culinary delights of Reims and indulge in its traditional cuisine rich in flavor and history. Experience the unique ambiance of local restaurants, savor traditional recipes, and create lasting memories in this charming city.