Issue No. 21

Gastronomy of Le Mans
Don’t miss the chance to taste Jasnières
wine while you’re in Le Mans, it’s rarely seen
outside the local area and is absolutely
delicious. It’s not made in huge quantities
and the locals keep most of it to themselves,
so stock up at the 15th century Cave de
Pedro – a feast for the senses in the Pont-
Lieu district of the old town. Wine master
Pedro has a brilliantly stocked shop, not just
wine but local specialities too. Book in
advance for a wine tasting - he speaks
English.
Indulge your sweet tooth at biscuit shop La
Sablésienne, perfect for a souvenir, if they
make it home in one piece!
When it comes to cakes – Takayanagi has
the locals queuing up. Japanese Chef
Takayanagi says: “Cakes are simple, but
complex; I create French cakes but with
Japanese influences”. For instance in this
shop you can get a Paris-Tokyo, rather than
a Paris-Brest. They serve a traditional Japanese
lunch here so, head to the little shop in
rue du Tertre for your Japanese-French fix.
If you’re a market fan you won’t be
disappointed by Le Mans' lovely Sunday
morning market in front of the huge
Cathedral. Don’t miss the mushroom man,
his champignons are a legend here.
Fabulous vegetables, fruit, bread, cheese,
fish, Plantagenet honey – a vibrant
atmosphere and a picturesque setting.
Wine and Dine: Auberge de Bagatelle. This
Michelin starred restaurant serves food that
looks amazing and tastes even better. Chef
Jean-Sébastien Monné creates dishes that
you don’t forget in a hurry, the lunch menu is
incredibly good value at just 32 Euros for 2
courses, 38 Euros for 3 courses. Push the
boat out with the 6 course tasting menu –
utterly delectable.
Locals love: Café du Jet d’Eau, next to the
Cathedral it’s the perfect pit stop for market
shoppers and watching the world go by. A
plate of oysters, tangy cheeses, crunchy
baguette and classic French dishes in a
really busy and welcoming atmosphere.