For several seasons now, the duo of Astrid Halbutier (who runs the dining room) and Marius Halter (who runs the kitchen) has been the pride of Parnac, a peaceful wine-growing village on the Lot River. From Friday through Monday, they welcome a dozen lucky guests, comfortably seated depending on the weather—either in the spacious, high-ceilinged dining room, which blends old beams with contemporary furnishings, or on the shaded terrace with its rustic charm, offering a relaxing view of the gardens and a few sheep. Before settling in this corner of paradise, the adventurous duo had traveled quite a bit (notably to... Siberia). Today, Marius’s creative and delicate cuisine has moved upmarket, reaching full maturity, combining local products with fully embraced exotic influences that always hit the mark (particularly impressive work with spices and condiments). Three set menus (depending on your appetite and budget) let you gauge his talent. A few highlights from our latest three-hour culinary journey: “wild prawn carpaccio, Aquitaine caviar, delicate escabèche jelly, citrange oil and lemon caviar,” “country pigeon roasted on a stand, confit thigh in a tagine, giblets in barbajuan, turnip and braised turnip cake in chicken jus,” “couscous and four-spice shortbread dessert, citrus supremes, candied kumquat, halva sorbet, Suzette sauce, and orange/tagetes condiment.” Numerous thoughtful touches—appetizer bites, amuse-bouches, a brilliantly reimagined mique, a top-notch cheese selection, and petit fours—round out this high-end experience that borders on three-star status. Service is provided with discretion and efficiency by the lovely Astrid, who is also an expert sommelier (a superb selection of organic wines from all regions of France, extensive and affordably priced). All in all, as another singular poet once sang, these are indeed “extraordinary gardens”…
Marius Halter Chef
