Finding great food around tourist attractions is always a challenge (and one I’ve taken it upon myself to make easier for people with guides to where to eat near the Louvre as well as near the Eiffel Tower), but by doing the right research, you can find delicious restaurants near almost any tourist attraction, including Versailles.
Versailles gets seven times the visitors of any château in France, but many folks who enter its gilded gates encounter just a handful of choices as far as places to eat are concerned (the McDonald’s near the train station being just one of them).
In the past, I’ve often recommended that people eat before visiting or return to the city to grab a bite once their tour is over. On nicer days, I’ve even suggested people take a picnic to enjoy in the park. But I’ve now discovered a new address where I can send them.
La Table du 11 is a Michelin-starred establishment just a short walk from the château itself, located down the beautiful cobbled Cour des Senteurs.
From the very beginning, guests get the royal treatment.
A selection of amuse-bouches, including this delicious roe tartlet, accompany drinks while you peruse the menu. The lunch prix fixe is a steal at 45 euro, which I’ve opted for on both of my recent visits.
On one occasion, I enjoyed this delicious hand-cut steak tartare. A bistro favorite of mine, this version of the dish was slightly elevated and included a perfect fried crouton as the centerpiece of the dish, which offered a contrasting texture to the tender beef.
On my second visit, I went for this artistic whole salsify, served with balsamic gelée, Jerusalem artichoke purée, and a parsley reduction. It’s my favorite dish I’ve enjoyed so far (barring dessert, which we’ll get to a bit later).
The mains are just as gorgeous and included this perfectly cooked fish with squid ink reduction.
Rosy veal with beets also didn’t disappoint.
Desserts have always been just as lovely, but none has won my heart more than this one, combining caramel and black sesame for a dessert that’s not too sweet and unites complexity of flavors and textures. I hope it reappears on the menu soon.
The little touches here are exquisite, from a wasabi-infused butter sprinkled with sesame seeds…
… to the mignardises served with coffee. Service is a delight, the dining room is beautiful, and the wine list is pretty stellar (albeit devoid of natural wine).
In truth, I have only one complaint about la Table du 11.
I wish it were a little bit closer to Paris.
La Table du 11 -Â La Cour des senteurs, 8 Rue de la Chancellerie, 78000Â