What are the culinary specialties of Morbihan?
Morbihan, located in the heart of Brittany, is a region rich in culinary specialties that reflect its local produce and maritime traditions. Whether you are in Arzon, Sarzeau, or the surrounding areas, this region invites you to discover its authentic dishes and fresh products. In this article, explore the must-try local specialties and find the best restaurants to enjoy them.
The Culinary Specialties of Morbihan
Oysters from the Gulf of Morbihan
The Gulf of Morbihan is renowned for its oysters, which have delicate and briny flavors. Sourced from the region’s waters, they are particularly appreciated for their unique taste, influenced by the rich marine environment of the gulf. Served with a simple squeeze of lemon, they are perfect for an authentic tasting experience.
Breton crêpes and galettes
A must-try in Brittany, the buckwheat galettes (savoury crepes) and sweet crêpes are often filled with local ingredients: salted butter, cheese, ham, salted caramel, and even seafood. These light and crispy crêpes are a specialty you’ll find throughout the region.
Kouign-amann
This Breton cake, whose name means “butter cake” in Breton, is a regional specialty. It is made with salted butter and sugar, giving it a caramelized flavor and a flaky texture. The kouign-amann should be enjoyed in moderation, but it remains a must-try for lovers of Breton sweets.
La cotriade
The cotriade is a traditional Breton dish, often compared to the Provençal bouillabaisse. It is a rockfish soup enriched with potatoes, onions, and herbs, all simmered in a flavorful broth. It is a comforting dish, perfect for chilly evenings by the sea.
Far breton
Far breton is a traditional dessert made with flour, eggs, milk, and sugar, often enhanced with prunes or raisins. Its dense and creamy texture makes it a popular cake found in many bakeries and pastry shops throughout the region.
Breton cider and chouchen
Brittany is also known for its cider, a traditional drink made from local apples. Breton cider is sweet and fruity, perfect for pairing with crêpes and galettes. Chouchen, an alcoholic drink made from honey, is another Breton specialty, ideal for discovering local flavors.
Selection of restaurants around Arzon and Sarzeau
To fully enjoy the specialties of Morbihan, several restaurants around Arzon and Sarzeau offer local dishes prepared with care. Here are some must-visit addresses for an authentic culinary experience.
Le P’tit Crêpier à Sarzeau
This crêperie is popular for its buckwheat galettes and sweet crêpes, prepared with local products. It offers a wide variety of fillings that showcase Breton expertise.
- Address : 7 Rue de la Poste, 56370 Sarzeau
- Phone : +33 2 97 41 81 18
- Specialty : Crêpes and galettes, salted butter caramel
- Website : leptitcrepier.com
La Côté Mer à Arzon
Located facing the harbor, La Côté Mer is a perfect restaurant to enjoy fresh seafood and Breton specialties. Their plate of oysters from the Gulf of Morbihan is a must-try for lovers of marine flavors.
- Address : Port du Crouesty, 56640 Arzon
- Phone : +33 2 97 53 80 46
- Specialty : Seafood, Gulf oysters, cotriade
- Website : restaurant-cotemer.com
Crêperie des Îles à Saint-Gildas-de-Rhuys
Just a few kilometers from Sarzeau, this creperie offers generously filled buckwheat galettes as well as delicious sweet crêpes. The setting is warm and friendly, perfect for a delicious break.
- Address : 15 Place Mgr Ropert, 56730 Saint-Gildas-de-Rhuys
- Phone : +33 2 97 45 23 17
- Specialty : Traditional crêpes and galettes
Restaurant Le Grain de Sel à Arzon
This gourmet restaurant offers refined cuisine that highlights the products of the Breton terroir. The chef reinterprets local specialties with a touch of creativity, providing a unique culinary experience.
- Address : 17 Rue de l’Artisanat, 56640 Arzon
- Phone : +33 2 97 53 74 42
- Specialty : Revisited Breton cuisine, local products
- Website : restaurantgraindesel.fr
Where to buy local products?
Local markets are perfect for buying fresh products and discovering the flavors of Morbihan.
Marché de Sarzeau
The Sarzeau market offers a great variety of products: seafood, fruits and vegetables, crêpes, and other Breton specialties. It’s an ideal place to buy quality products directly from the producers.
- Day: Thursday morning
- Address: Downtown, 56370 Sarzeau
Marché de Vannes
Located near Arzon, the Vannes market is a must-visit to discover products from the Gulf of Morbihan. With its stalls of fresh fish, dairy products, and Breton specialties, it’s perfect for immersing yourself in the local atmosphere.
- Day: Wednesday and Saturday morning
- Address: Place des Lices, 56000 Vannes
Marché d’Arzon
This market offers a selection of fresh local products, perfect for a delicious discovery of regional specialties.
- Day: Tuesday and Friday morning
- Address: Place de l’Artisanat, 56640 Arzon
Between its flavorful oysters, golden crêpes, and melt-in-your-mouth kouign-amann, Morbihan is a region where gastronomy is truly an invitation to travel. Whether you’re staying in Arzon or Sarzeau, you’ll find plenty of restaurants and markets to discover these Breton specialties. Take advantage of your escape to the Gulf of Morbihan to taste the local flavors and bring a piece of Brittany home in your culinary memories.