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Le Beau Séjour, Gorbio

2010-08-15 11:25

Where: Le Beau Séjour, 14 Place de la Republique, Gorbio. 
Contact :+33 4 93 41 46 15
Open: April to Sept for lunch; July to Sept for lunch and dinner (à la carte only)
Languages: English spoken

Le Beau Séjour, a bastide constructed in 1880, has to be one the Côte d'Azur's best kept secrets.  Situated in the unspoilt medieval village of Gorbio, it's only thirteen kilometres from Monaco and seven from Menton.

A rustic terrace opens up onto the main square, just across from Gorbio's famous elm tree which was planted in 1713. But go inside and you'll find a symphony in cream and white - a truly beautiful restaurant filled with objets d'art and with stunning views over the surrounding countryside.


photo ©Jilly Bennett

Le Beau Séjour has been in the same family for four generations, as the old photographs of the family and the village bear witness, and offers a cuisine based on Mentonnais and Monégasque specialities passed down from owner Yvan Bracco's great-grandfather, who opened his restaurant here in 1924.  Yvan's wife Naila is the chef (she is also responsible for the beautiful decor) and you will be served by their charming daughter Manon and several cousins. Truly a family business! And likely as not, you'll hear Yvan, an accomplished pianist, playing soft jazz in the background.

As well as the à la carte, there are menus at €25 euros and €30 euros, and a tasting menu at €38. Apart from the usual aperitifs you might try the different experience of a Kir Pétillant flavoured with either violet, lavender, poppy or rose.

We enjoyed the Farandole, a highly recommended hors d'oeuvre comprising local specialities barbagiuan, beignet d'aubergine, jambon cru and salade fraicheur served with a piquant coulis basilic.  Main courses include daube of beef (a traditional casserole), rabbit with oregano, lamb cutlets grilled with herbs, and magret de canard au poivre vert. To follow, go for the delicious cheese platter or a mixed plate of desserts chosen from tarte tatin, chocolate profiteroles, ice cream, or fresh fruit - a feast for the eye as well as the stomach.

Wines start at €17 for a Grimaud from the Var region; we chose a refreshing Bandol Rosé - Domaine de Frégate at €28.