Vitalie Taittinger, artistic director, Champagne Taittinger
“The wine bar and grocery shop Au Bon Mangerin Reims, owned by Aline and Eric Serva, a couple of adventurers, who only choose small producers and families who work responsibly. The selection includes cheeses, wild salmon, beautiful charcuterie and natural wines. Racine, in Reims, was opened by Japanese chef Kazuyuki Tanaka a few years ago, and was later awarded a Michelin star. In Troyes, Le Crieur de Vinoffers a very good selection of Champagne, and the food is very tasty, with a beautiful twist. In Épernay, Chez Maxis a very traditional local restaurant where the food is real and fresh, without any chi-chi. Very often you will cross paths with Champagne producers.”
Frédéric Zeimett, CEO, Champagne Leclerc Briant
“Racineand Le Fochin Reims, and Le Grand Cerfin Montchenot – all one Michelin-starred. I also enjoy going to Au Bon Mangerin Reims managed by Aline and Eric Serva, which is more casual. They have a fantastic selection of organic and biodynamic Champagnes.”
Gilles de la Bassetiere, president, Champagne de Venoge
“Talking only about the restaurants near Épernay, I will classify the restaurants in two categories, the ‘classics’ and the ‘discoveries’.
In the classics, Le Royal Champagnehas the best view in Champagne, Les Berceauxthe best pied de cochonin Épernay, La Briqueteriein Vinay has the best-value lunch menu in Champagne, La Grillade Gourmandefor its famous escargot de Champagne,Le Theatrewith its homemade foie gras and smoked salmon, and Le Sardaignehas the best pizza. For discoveries, Chez Maxserves the best steak tartare in Champagne, and Chez Shaois the best Chinese in Épernay. And finally, [de Venoge’s] L’Écuriefor tapas and Champagne de Venoge.”
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