5 /5
Note moyenne
★
★
★
★
★
Staying on the Sunday night at Domaine de Lys a few miles away, we realised we'd have some difficulties in getting a booking anywhere at all. The hotel's own restaurant was closed, and the top choices in the nearest town, Ancenis, were full.Fortunately, our host at the hotel found Le 7 on his list, and gave them a call. They were willing to take us - so we weren't going to be hungry at least! We were given GPS co-ordinates and sent on our way. As we drew closer, we were looking at each other, sure that we must have taken a wrong turning. We were driving on the narrowest roads possible, and then past large industrial units and truck parks. Absolutely no sign of any charming restaurant. Anyway, we persisted with the GPS and eventually found an Ibis Budget sign (our hearts sinking), with Le 7 directly opposite, sharing the entrance.Let me make something very clear from the off. This restaurant is in no way associated with the Ibis Budget. Nor is this a cheap, throwaway budget chain establishment in any way. This is a real French restaurant with an excellent chef and amazing head waiter in Danny, who looked after us exceptionally well. If there is any criticism, it's that there is a very narrow choice on the menu. On the other hand, this allows the chef's team to focus on their execution of the 4 or 5 dishes available, and this format clearly works for them. We actually came here to eat twice in two days. First time I went for terrine (done in true Bouchon style, the full family bowl, pickles and chutneys brought to the table for me to help myself to as much as I wanted from) and the fish (merlu) - absolute perfection. Second night I went for a beautiful foie gras and the bavette - so succulent done medium-rare.We ordered a lovely carafe of wine both days, and Danny even poured us a free glass of semi-dec to go with the foie gras (and I must admit, I went ahead and bought a bottle of this from their retail wine selection at the end of the meal - inexpensive, but very, very good!I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Le 7, and I'd even consider staying around here again just to visit the restaurant one more time.