Hi all! After spending our first day walking around Lyon, we decided to hop in the car and drive a few places. The first stop was for The Husband at the Lyon Antique Flea Market. It totally made my heart smile watching him pull out what he wanted to ask for written in French. I[Read More…]
France Recap #3: Getting Noodley in Valence
Hi all! After our long weekend walking and driving around Lyon, we made the 1.15 hour drive over to Valence to meet up with my coworkers for our meetings later in the week.
The weather was definitely chilly.
Our first stop was at Hotel De France to check in. The hotel is very cute and part of the Chateau family.
Our room on the 3rd floor came with daily chocolates, teas and an espresso machine to feed my coffee addiction.
I wish I could show you all how cute this couch is – it fits maybe 1.5 people.
Check out the view from our castle like window balcony.
We were all starving so we walked across the street to Le Grande Cafe to try the mini ravioli that are uniquely made in Valence.
One of my favorite things is the bread and it’s part of every meal.
My lunch plate came with 1/2 a green salad topped with tomatoes, peppers and two types if dressing – creamy like Dijon and tangy like balsamic. Delish!
Yes, they had healthy choices but sometimes you just need to experience the culture and just go with it.
Now, let’s talk about these mini ravioli – holy wow you all!! I have never tasted pasta so good, decadent and, well cute. These little pasta pockets are cooked Al dente with cheese and herbs, topped with layers of creamy cheese, pesto and parmesan.
If I could, I would’ve licked my plate!
To balance out my lunch, I had a cappuccino instead of ice cream…so, umm, there is that.
We walked around a bit after lunch before heading back to finish up some work.
Once all our co-workers arrived, we met up for dinner at Bistrot de Clercs in the square.
I shared this asparagus parkesan starter with The Husband.
Then, gave everyone a good laugh. My honey garlic shrimp noodles came out with this black decoration on it.
As we all tried it, we asked the waitress what it was…..
She said, um, you know when octopus shoot out black stuff….that’s it.
Ya, I set that aside and moved on to my tasty noodles. I also had two glasses of Vin Rouge (red wine) that made me realize I love French wine!
I ordered this Lemon tart for dessert. Super tangy with a melt in your mouth buttery, shortbread cookie crust that worked well with the lemon sorbet and strawberry sauce.
Such a good food day but not so much in a good point way.
I have 1-2 more France recap posts for you all that I hope to get posted before the weekend is over.
Night all!
