St Paul de Vence - La Colombe D'Or (Restaurant)
Frank's view 
'More about ambience than cuisine''
There are two dining experiences at La Colombe D’Or. One is in winter and Spring / Autumn evenings when dining takes place indoors. The grand wood paneled restaurant also happens to be one of the world’s best art galleries. Picasso, Matisse and a host of other struggling artists used to stay there and settle their bills with paintings.
The indoor dining experience is a little staid but La Colombe D’Or really comes to life when the sun comes out and the warm summer evenings take over. Book weeks, if not months, in advance to secure a lunchtime or evening table.
The valet parking is a godsend if you arrive by car. Pull up outside the small wooden door and hand over your keys to one of the valets.
Start with La Maison Hors D’Oeuvre -14 different dishes and pannier des legumes. The dishes include a variety of fish, sausage, vegetables, cous cous and paella rice. At €27.50 its no bargain but if you try to order one to share they will charge for two.
Most other starters are around €20 with the exception of Fois Gras (€29). The fish is good, particularly Fillet of Sole with a Dijon mustard dressing (€40). Carnivores should try the Rack of Lamb (€31). Your waiter will try to tempt you with the Soufflé de Grand Marnier (€16) for dessert.
Besides the normal a la carte menu, an exclusive menu is offered to hotel residents. This is very good value at 30 euros for 4 courses including cheese and a dessert.
The house rosé wine is exceptional value at €20. It is also worth considering the “Suggestions” pinned to the front of the wine list with very drinkable reds and whites priced around the €35 mark.
Lunch or dinner is always capped with complimentary liquor.
Summer lunch or dinner at La Colombe D'Or is one of life's essential dining experiences.
La Colombe D’Or
St Paul de Vence
+33 49 332 8002
Be Frank: agree or disagree? What do you think?
