Restaurant Les Viviers Saint-Martin

We happened upon this restaurant on a wet Saturday lunchtime, we had been showing our daughter the delights of Brive Town Centre before whisking her back to the airport and were in need of sustenance. The continual drizzle mitigated against sitting outside and I was a little hesitant about trying to enter as we had our dog with us. However I went in and approached the Maitre D’ and explained, she cheerfully waved us all in and showed us to a table. The restaurant was not busy, with less than 10 customers dotted around and maybe that influenced her decision or maybe it was just that unlike in the UK the French are extremely accepting of and receptive and welcoming to dogs into their restaurants along with their owners.We took a corner table which gave us the opportunity to look around. The restaurant was nicely decorated and as we subsequently found out the toilettes both messieurs and mesdames spotlessly clean. For all my worrying faithful hound was soon fast asleep on the carpet next to us as we perused the menu over soft drinks but then for simplicity chose the 2 course Menu du Jour focusing on a main and dessert as our daughter and I both have a ‘sweet tooth’. The main when it came was a substantial Boeuf Bourguignon which was served with large potatoes and carrots and the sauce was particularly nice and flavoursome.There was a major interruption during the main course when for some reason someone walking outside decided it would be a good idea to come over and knock on the window. Our dog awoke instantly and went into defence mode, hair standing on end and barking for all he was worth before being told that everything was ok, we were all safe and he was encouraged to return to his slumber. I thought that might instantly mean we had outstayed our welcome but was pleasantly was surprised as none of the other diners or the staff had blinked a metaphorical eye. Neither was anything said when our bowls were collected and dessert delivered. Seemingly a case of dogs are welcome, dogs occasionally bark, why should it be a problem?We finished with Crème brûlée à la vanilla, quite pleasant although the brûlée was not overly brittle but it was certainly sweet enough for our liking. Overall a very pleasant interlude made even more so as the rain had stopped when we ventured back out.

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There is an air of calm and serenity to this beautifully decorated restaurant. This relaxed ambience is an important feature but the food is excellent too, and the service is faultless. Rather surprising to find such a high calibre restaurant in a small city like Brive. All this and the price is quite reasonable. Main course, which was very filling, with a glass of wine for 25€. The quality and presentation of food is excellent. Highly recommended if you find yourself in Brive-la-Galliarde.

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Generally good food, dishes "a la carte" are more refined and generous than the "formule du jour" / or menu. Interior is very cosy, well-designed, elegant and refined. Nice location in the pedestrian area in the city center ... The weakest point is the service : generally long-lasting and not synchronized between the guests ... Some will already have their dish since 10min when the last ones will get their ... Certainly a big point for improvement ...

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Having decided to do a little Christmas shopping, it reached that time of the day when lunch called, we stumbled upon this restaurant. We managed to get a table and proceeded to enjoy a truly excellent meal. My only note of caution is, if you in a rush then this is not the place for you. It was very busy and because everything appears to be cooked fresh - no microwave ping to be heard, you need a little time, but I say again, well worth waiting for.

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Came here for dinner one evening, seating and ambiance both inside and out lovely. However my steak was full of gristle and fat and when I commented on it, I was told that that is exactly how an entrecôte steak is!?? Very disappointing!

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