Paul Bocuse, Michel Troigros, Marc Veyrat, Anne-Sophie Pic and Georges Blanc : all these representatives of French gourmet food have two points in common. They have all be awarded three rosettes by the Michelin guide, the supreme distinction in haute cuisine … and they ply their trade in Rhone- Alpes, a region that boasts some 60 star-spangled chefs. But over and above such celebrity chefs, hundreds of more humble cooks serve good meals to food lovers in an area endowed with an incredible number of brasseries, bistros and other restaurants.
But what is behind this remarkable situation? First and foremost the diversity of landscape and climate, which encourages a huge variety of farming produce. The region is located in the midst of a whole series of sectors accredited with one of the now famous Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée. Secondly access to local produce, the fruit of the terroir, with highly prized items such as Bresse poultry, Lyon charcuterie or indeed Drome truffles. Superb wines – from Beaujolais, Cotes du Rhone and Savoie – are also grown here, delighting wine lovers and securing Rhone- Alpes’ international repute as a centre of production. Last, but not least, people here simply enjoy good food, which coupled with excellent quality of life, make this a genuinely special place. Gourmet food is a major asset for the Rhone-Alpes travel trade, helping to attract visitors from all four corners of the globe with the prospect of delicious meals. And top chefs are increasingly opening their kitchens to share their skills and passion, and lift the veil on some their secrets. So Rhone-Alpes has every reason to lay claim to the title of world capital of gourmet food, while wishing you: “Bon Appétit!”.