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Les Arques

La Récréation, located in Les Arques, France, is celebrated for its exquisite French cuisine and nostalgic setting within a former schoolhouse. The restaurant offers a variety of menus, including the Menu Maître d'école, Menu du petit écolier, and Menu La Récréation, each featuring dishes like lobster ravioli with coral sauce, sea bass fillet with langoustine cream, and beef fillet with Kerala black pepper. Guests often dine in the picturesque courtyard terrace or the classroom-style dining room, enjoying a blend of modern cuisine and historical ambiance.

Discover La Récréation, A Culinary Gem in Les Arques, France.

Nestled in the picturesque village of Les Arques in the Lot region of Occitanie, France, 

 is a must-visit destination for food lovers and travelers seeking an authentic French dining experience. Located at 70 Rue de la Vialotte, this enchanting spot offers a blend of inventive cuisine and a charming ambiance set within a beautifully restored old schoolhouse.

An Idyllic Dining Experience With Seasonal Flavors

La Récréation is celebrated for its carefully curated seasonal menu featuring a limited selection of dishes that showcase local ingredients at their freshest. Whether you choose the five-course tasting menu or select from the carefully crafted options, each plate offers a burst of flavors designed to delight the palate. Highlights often include exquisite seafood like lobster ravioli and perfectly cooked fillet of beef that some diners call "the best they've ever had." The presentation is refined, embodying the essence of French culinary artistry.

A Welcoming Atmosphere With Outstanding Service

Guests are greeted warmly by friendly hosts and attentive waitstaff, including knowledgeable team members who expertly guide you through the wine list, featuring exquisite local wines and champagne. The outdoor courtyard terrace is a serene spot for a leisurely meal on warm summer afternoons, offering both shade and a tranquil ambiance perfect for catching up with friends or celebrating special occasions. Families with children are also welcomed generously, with child-friendly menus that keep younger diners happy and satisfied.

 featuring local ingredients and refined French cuisine.

 perfect for outdoor dining on sunny days.

 offering personalized wine and menu recommendations.

 with dedicated children's menus and welcoming atmosphere.

 with free parking and wheelchair-friendly facilities.

Frequently Asked Questions About Restaurant La Récréation

Quels sont les horaires d'ouverture de La Récréation ?

 Le restaurant est ouvert du lundi au dimanche, avec des services de déjeuner et de dîner. Les horaires spécifiques peuvent varier, il est donc recommandé de consulter le site officiel ou de contacter directement le restaurant pour confirmer.

Le restaurant propose-t-il des options végétariennes ?

 Oui, La Récréation propose des options végétariennes sur son menu, notamment une assiette végétarienne composée de légumes de saison.

 Il est fortement recommandé de réserver à l'avance, surtout pendant les périodes de haute saison, car le restaurant est souvent complet.

Le restaurant dispose-t-il d'une terrasse extérieure ?

 Oui, La Récréation dispose d'une terrasse extérieure située dans une cour, offrant un cadre agréable pour les repas en plein air.

Le restaurant est-il accessible aux personnes en fauteuil roulant ?

 Oui, le restaurant est accessible aux personnes en fauteuil roulant, avec des installations adaptées.

The overall sentiment from diners is overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the inventive and refined cuisine, warm and attentive service, and the unique charm of the setting. The historic ambiance of dining in an old schoolhouse combined with the tranquil outdoor patio makes each visit memorable. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a leisurely meal with friends or family, La Récréation provides an exceptional taste of French gastronomy in a welcoming, picturesque environment.

Europe

France

Nestled in the picturesque village of Les Arques, France, Restaurant La Récréation offers a delightful escape into the heart of Occitanie. This charming eatery, housed in a former school, exudes a warm, inviting atmosphere that perfectly complements its exquisite culinary offerings. Imagine dining al fresco in a serene courtyard, surrounded by lush greenery, as the sun casts a golden hue over your plate. Here, every meal is a celebration of local flavors and seasonal ingredients, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts and travelers alike.

At La Récréation, the menu is a delightful journey through the flavors of the region. Two standout dishes that capture the essence of French cuisine are the Lobster Ravioli and the Fillet of Beef. The Lobster Ravioli is a delicate masterpiece, featuring tender pasta enveloping succulent lobster, served with a rich, aromatic sauce that dances on the palate. Meanwhile, the Fillet of Beef is a true revelation—perfectly seared, it melts in your mouth, accompanied by seasonal vegetables that enhance its robust flavor. To complement your meal, don't miss out on their carefully curated selection of local wines, which elevate the dining experience to new heights.

One of the most enchanting aspects of La Récréation is its history. Originally an old schoolhouse, the restaurant retains its rustic charm while offering modern culinary delights. Guests often rave about the friendly service, with staff members who are not only knowledgeable but also genuinely passionate about the food they serve. This personal touch makes every visit feel special, as if you are dining among friends.

Located at 70 Rue de la Vialotte, La Récréation is perfectly situated for those exploring the enchanting Lot region. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll through the quaint streets of Les Arques, or visit the nearby art gallery showcasing works by the famous artist, André Breton. This charming village is a hidden gem, offering a glimpse into the rich culture and history of southern France.

La Récréation is celebrated for its exquisite seasonal menu featuring local ingredients and a charming atmosphere.

Visiting La Récréation offers a unique culinary experience in a beautiful setting, perfect for food lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat.

The restaurant is close to local attractions such as art galleries and scenic walking paths, making it an ideal stop during your visit.

Whether you're a local or a traveler passing through, make sure to stop by Restaurant La Récréation for an unforgettable dining experience. Savor the flavors of the region, enjoy the warm hospitality, and create lasting memories in this hidden gem of Les Arques.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNaOTlmQWlnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ2WgUOMudrBIRSYYBWPjDpkQ/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNaOTlmQWlnRRAB

Really enjoyed.
Lovely to site outside in an idyllic courtyard on a warm summers afternoon in the company of friends. Opted for a menu as one does in France, whether you need it or not! A limited number of seasonal choices for the various courses - good! Dishes were good but nothing really wow. Mains were a bit disappointing, fish/dorado not very flavourful & pork cheek would have benefitted from a better presentation. Service was good and local wines excellent. A lovely afternoon out with friends.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR4OGFxWG53RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ2WgUOMudrBIRSYYBWPjDpkQ/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR4OGFxWG53RRAB

Wow!  Just wow!  Returning diners, we were once again very impressed with the friendly hosts and waiters, and of course chef.  You will not be disappointed.  Keep this secret so we can get a table next time!  An old school house, basic decor but incredible food.  Savour the flavours of every single bite.  Fantastique!  Merci beaucoup for making our birthday celebration so special.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNINktHSm5BRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ2WgUOMudrBIRSYYBWPjDpkQ/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNINktHSm5BRRAB

This is a ‘don’t miss it’ restaurant if you have the opportunity to visit this place… DO.
The ‘menu’ is great and start off with a glass of champagne and have some advice from the staff on wine selection… the younger guy certainly knows. But this place is all about the enjoyment of food. The garden terrace is a great place to sit…. (In the shade preferably). We had the opportunity to visit twice and really enjoyed it.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNVNzYtdnBBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ2WgUOMudrBIRSYYBWPjDpkQ/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNVNzYtdnBBRRAB

We are visiting France from the U.K. and this was, without doubt, the best meal we have had in our time here.

We were a little nervous as travelling with three young children but we shouldn’t have been as they were provided with wonderful, child friendly meals which left them asking for more. It’s not often all three kids clear their plate!

We selected the 5 course option and every one was amazing. The absolute highlights were the Lobster Ravioli, the Fillet of Beef and the Chocolate Mousse but in truth every one was 10/10. The meal was also accompanied with a wonderful local wine from their excellent selection. The Fillet of Beef was genuinely the best I’ve ever had and I’ve tried many in my travels around the world.

If you are visiting the area I highly recommend you book a table at this restaurant. The setting is very picturesque, the service friendly and the food divine. We are so grateful we took the opportunity to eat at this local jewel.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUREcV92WndRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ2WgUOMudrBIRSYYBWPjDpkQ/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUREcV92WndRRRAB

We were met the second we walked through the gates by our waiter Samuel and looked after us impeccably all evening serving us the most fantastic food and drink.
5 stars well deserved for our wonderful evening here.

Dining at Restaurant La Récréation in Les Arques, France

La Récréation is housed in a former schoolhouse in Les Arques, France, offering a nostalgic dining experience with contemporary French cuisine.

La Récréation in Les Arques: A Culinary Heritage

Nestled in the picturesque village of Les Arques in the Lot region of France, La Récréation stands as a beacon of culinary excellence. This renowned restaurant is uniquely situated in a beautifully restored former school building, providing a setting that perfectly blends historic charm with contemporary dining.

La Récréation opened its doors in 1990, transforming an old schoolhouse into a vibrant restaurant where tradition meets innovation. Over the next decades, it steadily built a reputation for its exceptional cuisine and inviting atmosphere. In 2000, the restaurant achieved a major milestone by earning recognition in the prestigious Michelin Guide, marking it as a must-visit destination for food lovers.

The arrival of Chef Jacques Ratier in 2010 infused La Récréation with new energy and creativity. His culinary expertise brought a fresh dimension to the menu, combining local flavors with refined techniques that delighted both locals and travelers alike.

In 2020, La Récréation commemorated its 30th anniversary with a series of special events that celebrated its rich history and the loyal community it has built. This milestone highlighted the restaurant’s enduring appeal and its commitment to offering an exceptional dining experience.

 is not just a restaurant; it is an experience that reflects the heritage of Les Arques and the culinary innovation of the Lot region. Its distinctive location, excellent service, and celebrated cuisine make it a destination for food enthusiasts seeking authentic and memorable meals.

 - Opening of La Récréation in a former school building at Les Arques.

 - Recognition by the Michelin Guide, cementing its reputation for excellence.

 - Chef Jacques Ratier joins, enriching the menu with new culinary perspectives.

 - 30th anniversary celebrated with special events honoring its legacy.

Outdoor Seating

Restroom

Good for Groups

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Lunch

Serves Dinner

Good for Children

Menu for Children

In the charming village of Les Arques, tucked away in the verdant hills of Occitanie, lies the delightful Restaurant La Récréation. This rustic gem offers a culinary embrace that showcases the rich flavors of the region, nestled within a landscape that pulses with history and natural beauty. The restaurant's menu reflects a deep respect for local produce, with dishes that celebrate the bounty of the Lot region, accompanied by carefully selected local wines that enhance the dining experience.

Restaurant La Récréation

La Récréation offers three distinct menus: Menu Maître d'école, Menu du petit écolier, and Menu La Récréation, each featuring a selection of dishes crafted with fresh market produce.

Menu Maître d'école

Menu du petit écolier

Menu La Récréation

Menus

Discover the exquisite menu at Restaurant La Récréation

Nestled in the charming village of Les Arques, Restaurant La Récréation offers a refined culinary experience featuring a selection of dishes crafted with fresh market ingredients. The menu showcases a harmonious balance of flavors, perfect for those seeking a memorable dining adventure in the Lot region of France.

Begin your meal with delicate seafood creations that showcase finesse and freshness. The Croustillant de Saint-Jacques aux cheveux d’ange offers tender scallops wrapped in angel hair pastry accompanied by a zesty citrus butter, while the Ravioles de homard sauce corail presents lobster ravioli bathed in a rich coral sauce that delights the palate.

The main courses at La Récréation are a celebration of regional and seasonal produce. Savor the Dos de Skrei, a beautifully cooked skrei cod fillet served with spinach stuffing, green cabbage, cauliflower espuma, and a vibrant salsa verde with select condiments. For meat lovers, the Suprême de Caille au foie gras combines tender quail breast with luxurious foie gras, while the Joue de porc noir ibérique confite is a slow-cooked Iberian pork cheek paired with a layered potato millefeuille and creamy onion.

 are also thoughtfully catered for with a seasonal vegetable plate that highlights the freshest market offerings.

Conclude your meal with the light and refreshing Chou infiniment citron, a dessert that combines delicate choux pastry with an invigorating lemon essence, perfectly balancing sweetness and acidity for a satisfying finish.

Enhance your dining experience with expertly curated local wines that complement the diverse flavors of the menu. The knowledgeable staff provide excellent recommendations to pair perfectly with each dish. For special occasions, guests can indulge in expertly crafted cocktails or start with a glass of celebratory champagne, all served in the idyllic courtyard or charming garden terrace, making each visit a delightful event.

 in a picturesque courtyard perfect for warm afternoons.

 crafted into refined dishes by a talented chef.

 ensuring a memorable dining experience for all guests.

Experience delightful dining at Restaurant La Récréation in Les Arques, Occitanie, France. Savor a menu of exquisite local flavors.

Les Arques Dining at La Récréation - Local Flavors

Lot County

Vegetarian options

Gluten-free options

Outdoor seating

Ample parking space available for guests.

Private parking

Facilities are accessible for wheelchair users.

Wheelchair accessible

Discover Restaurant La Récréation in Les Arques, France 

Nestled in the picturesque village of Les Arques, Restaurant La Récréation offers an unforgettable dining experience celebrating the charm of Occitanie cuisine. This inviting spot combines a quaint, old-school house ambiance with a lovely outdoor courtyard — perfect for enjoying warm summer afternoons with friends or family.

Exceptional seasonal menus highlighting French tradition

At La Récréation, the culinary focus is on fresh, seasonal ingredients skillfully crafted into traditional French dishes with a modern twist. The signature Menu Maître d'École is a 45-euro tasting menu that showcases refined reinterpretations of classic recipes, delivering a delightful journey through regional flavors.

Families with young diners will appreciate the Menu du Petit Écolier, a thoughtfully designed 27-euro children's menu offering perfectly portioned meals with flavors tailored to younger palates, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.

A warm setting with excellent service and local wines

Guests consistently praise the attentive and friendly staff, who enhance the dining experience with knowledgeable wine recommendations, especially from the rich local vineyards. Whether seated on the shaded garden terrace or inside the simple, welcoming dining room, visitors enjoy a relaxed atmosphere that makes every visit special.

Whether you're indulging in a multi-course feast or enjoying an intimate dinner on the terrace, Restaurant La Récréation invites you to savor the finest of Lot's culinary delights. With its blend of traditional French charm, excellent local wines, and attentive service, this hidden gem is a must-visit for food lovers exploring Occitanie.

Book your table now and experience a memorable meal in the heart of Les Arques.

Occitanie Region

Enjoy exquisite French cuisine in a charming former schoolhouse in Les Arques, Occitanie. Reserve now for a memorable culinary experience!

Experience Fine Dining at La Récréation in Les Arques

Visit La Récréation in Les Arques for innovative French dishes, outdoor terrace dining, and exceptional service in a historic setting. Book your table today!

Discover La Récréation, Les Arques - Unique French Dining

Learn about La Récréation's history in Les Arques, France, offering modern French cuisine in a nostalgic schoolhouse setting. Discover our story now!

Discover the exquisite menu at Restaurant La Récréation

Starters

Mains

Desserts

Drinks and specials

why dine at La Récréation