La Marine
L’Herbaudière, France
Journey to the tiny island of Noirmoutier, a beach-lined idyll west of Nantes in the Bay of Biscay, to experience the exquisite imaginations of Alexandre and Céline Couillon. Their restaurant is set in a little house with white walls and inky-blue shutters, overlooking the marina of L'Herbaudière. Though there is an a la carte option, the tasting menus are popular, with a choice of either six or nine courses, brought out on handmade ceramics that add to the down-to-earth mood of the place. Chef Alexandre has developed his distinct style by referencing the region, drawing inspiration from the land, the beach, the fire and the sea spray – dishes change regularly, according to what has just landed or been plucked from the ground. Squid ink on an oyster tells of the devastating Erika oil spill; smoked mackerel arrives on its own stripped skeleton. Unsurprisingly, La Marine is fish heavy, but Couillon credits cooking his mother's apple pie as his way into the industry.
Key Information
- Average price per person $209
- Tasting menu from $407
- Lunch and dinner: Wed – Sat
- +33 2 51 39 23 09
- Visit La Marine's Website
Location
5 Rue Marie Lemonnier, L’Herbaudière, 85330 Noirmoutier-en-l'Île
