What are the culinary specialties of Bresse?

Bresse, famous for its refined gastronomy and local produce, is a must-visit destination for lovers of French cuisine. Located near Saint-Cyr-sur-Menthon, this region offers delicious dishes that reflect its history and craftsmanship. Discover the local specialties and the best restaurants for an unforgettable culinary experience.

The culinary specialties of Bresse

Poulet de Bresse

Bresse chicken is a true local pride and the only poultry in France to have an Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC). Its tender meat and unique flavor make it an exceptional dish, often prepared roasted or with cream and morel mushrooms. Bresse chicken is a must-try for all food enthusiasts visiting the region.

Bresse cream and butter

Bresse is also renowned for its cream and butter, both of which are protected by an AOC (Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée). These dairy products stand out for their creamy texture and rich flavor, making them perfect for complementing traditional dishes. Bresse cream is often used to enhance sauces, particularly in the famous Bresse chicken with cream.

The frogs of the Dombes

A few steps from Bresse, the ponds of the Dombes provide a typical regional specialty: frog legs. Cooked with garlic and parsley, they are highly appreciated by food enthusiasts and offer a unique culinary experience.

The blond liver cake

This traditional dish is a must-try appetizer in the Bresse region. It is made with poultry livers, cream, and eggs, then baked in the oven. The blond liver cake is often served with a tomato sauce or a financial sauce.

The cheeses of the region

Bresse also offers a great selection of typical cheeses from the Rhône-Alpes region, such as Bleu de Bresse, which is mild and creamy, and Tomme de Bresse, a melting cheese with a slightly fruity flavor.

Selection of restaurants around Saint-Cyr-sur-Menthon

To fully enjoy the specialties of Bresse, several establishments near Saint-Cyr-sur-Menthon offer authentic, homemade dishes. Here is a selection of restaurants for a true culinary discovery.

L’Auberge Bressane de Buellas

L’Auberge Bressane is a must-visit for tasting traditional Bresse dishes, with a warm and authentic atmosphere. Their Bresse chicken with cream is highly recommended.

  • Address: 10 Place de l’Église, 01310 Buellas
  • Phone: +33 4 74 24 13 68
  • Specialty: Bresse chicken with cream, Dombes frogs
  • Website: auberge-bressane.com

Restaurant Georges Blanc à Vonnas

Georges Blanc is a triple Michelin-starred chef, renowned for his inventive cuisine that respects local products. At his restaurant in Vonnas, you can enjoy exceptional dishes that highlight the products of Bresse.

  • Address: Place du Marché, 01540 Vonnas
  • Phone: +33 4 74 50 90 90
  • Specialty: Bresse chicken, gourmet cuisine
  • Website: georgesblanc.com

L’Auberge de Montessuy

Located in Bourg-en-Bresse, the Auberge de Montessuy is a family-friendly restaurant where you can enjoy traditional Bresse cuisine in a rustic and welcoming setting.

  • Address: 8 Rue Jean-Jacques Rousseau, 01000 Bourg-en-Bresse
  • Phone: +33 4 74 21 15 66
  • Specialty: Gâteau de foies blonds, frogs’ legs, Bresse chicken

La Table Bressane

This restaurant is located in the heart of Bresse and offers traditional cuisine with fresh, local ingredients. La Table Bressane is perfect for discovering typical dishes from the region in a friendly atmosphere.

  • Address: Route de Mézériat, 01310 Saint-Rémy
  • Phone: +33 4 74 42 12 07
  • Specialty: Bresse chicken with cream, parsley frogs’ legs

Where to buy local products ?

For those who wish to bring home some products from Bresse, several local markets offer fresh and artisanal goods.

Market of Bourg-en-Bresse

This market, located about fifteen kilometers from Saint-Cyr-sur-Menthon, offers a wide selection of local products: Bresse poultry, cheeses, vegetables, and artisanal specialties. It is perfect for discovering the flavors of the region and interacting with the producers.

  • Day : Wednesday and Saturday morning
  • Adresse : Place du Champ de Foire, 01000 Bourg-en-Bresse

Market of Pont-de-Veyle

Closer to Saint-Cyr-sur-Menthon, this small, friendly market also offers a great selection of regional products, perfect for a quick glimpse of Bressane cuisine.

  • Day: Monday morning
  • Address: Town center, 01290 Pont-de-Veyle

The Bresse region, and more specifically the areas around Saint-Cyr-sur-Menthon, is a true paradise for food lovers. Between the famous Bresse chicken, Dombes frogs, local cheeses, and the renowned Bresse cream, the regional specialties offer a rich and flavorful experience. Whether you choose a Michelin-starred restaurant or a traditional inn, every meal is an invitation to discover the authenticity of this region.