La Maison d’a Cote, 41350 Montivault

If you plan on visiting the Chateaux de la Loire, including Chambord which is one of the most famous castles, this restaurant is right on your route, and is located in a quiet little village away from the tour bus circuit.  The chef, Ludovic Laurenty, has been awarded a Michelin star for his cooking but offers a very affordable 3 course lunchtime menu at Euros 22 including a glass of wine and coffee, which is really an excellent deal.  The day we were there the starter was a roulade of lobster and salmon, followed by braised beef cheek in red wine, accompanied by the most wonderful young mixed vegetables – it was almost like being back at Michel Bras! The dessert was pannecota with an almond biscuit and a red fruit sauce, and the wine was a local Chinon.  At night there is a Euros 38 menu a la carte and a Menu Surprise called La Choix du Chef ( although he does ask beforehand if there’s anything you can’t eat) at Euros 48 or 60 depending on the number of courses.   As this is a hunting area, there was quite a bit of game on the menu, such as wild boar, deer and hare dishes, and the wine list included a wide selection of wines from the area.  If you feel like staying the night, the “Maison” is also a three star Hotel de Charme which is run by the chef’s wife, Graziella, and looked most attractive.