In the heart of picturesque Saint-Bonnet-le-Froid, where the volcanic landscapes of Velay meet the lush countryside of the Ardèche, lies one of France’s most extraordinary restaurants – the family home of Régis and Jacques Marcon. This family team, consisting of acclaimed chef Régis Marcon and his sons, has been setting the highest standards of culinary art for decades, earning the prestigious three Michelin stars. Restaurant Marcon is an extraordinary place, winning the palates and hearts of the most demanding people.
Marcon Restaurant. Tradition and innovation in the heart of Auvergne
The story of Marcon Restaurant is a tale of deep respect for local tradition, which he combines with the courage to innovate. Régis Marcon, called Auvergnat with Italian roots, has been shaping a cuisine in which seasonal products and local specialties play a key role for more than forty years. In 2004, he was joined by his son Jacques, who brought fresh ideas and energy, creating a unique cooking duo together with his father. Until recently, younger son Paul also completed the team, continuing the family tradition.
Cuisine rooted in nature and the rhythm of the seasons
Marcon Restaurant is a menu composed in constant homage to the land where they live and work. The best of the area is found here. That’s why the meat comes from the plateau. The famous green lentils from Le Puy. And fresh asparagus, broad beans, wild herbs, snails from local meadows and farms. Also unique are the mushrooms the family harvests personally in the fall. Dishes like young chanterelles with glazed carrots and wild lovage or delicately fried alpine trout fillet with fennel confited in elderflower butter are the essence of this cuisine. Simplicity, taste and closeness to nature. Therefore, the most important thing here is tradition and dishes created in harmony with the rhythm of nature.
The family constantly adjusts the menu according to the availability of ingredients and the season. They create new and surprising compositions every week. These delight both local gourmets and guests from around the world.
Vellave menu – a culinary journey through Velay and Ardèche
One of the highlights of the offer is the “Vellave Menu”. A unique tasting on the border of the Velay and Vivarais regions. It is an invitation to a taste journey through the land of volcanoes, flowers and aromatic herbs. Guests can enjoy lobster with wild cress and spelt, delicate Fario trout with dill in many renditions or aromatic rabbit seasoned with myrrh. The selection is delightful. There is also no shortage of selected cheeses from Ardèche and Auvergne, as well as desserts. These are created according to guests’ personal preferences.
This menu is a true story of the land and the seasons, perfectly combining tradition with modern finesse, highlighting the uniqueness of local ingredients.
Marcon restaurant: passion, ecology and locality – the foundations of success
The Marcons are not only masters of taste, but also ambassadors of sustainability. In their kitchen and throughout their farm, attention is paid to minimizing waste, conserving energy and water, and protecting the local environment. Their culinary philosophy is based on a deep respect for the land and the promotion of the region’s heritage. This attitude is increasingly appreciated by critics and lovers of fine cuisine. That’s why, in a rushing reality, one gets the impression that Marcon Restaurant is a place where time has slowed down.
Marcon Restaurant is location, where history, passion and nature combine into a harmonious whole. Human passion creates a culinary experience that remains in the memory for a long time. This is a must stop for anyone who wants to experience the true essence of French culinary art.
