About
If you're searching for an exquisite dining experience nestled in the heart of Chabanais, look no further than Le Vieux Moulin. Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Étang du Bouchaud, this charming restaurant occupies a former mill, seamlessly blending history with culinary excellence. With its elegant atmosphere and warm hospitality, Le Vieux Moulin has garnered a loyal following of both locals and visitors alike.
First-time diners can expect a hearty welcome, as noted by Fiona Nunn, who celebrated her birthday here with friends. She praised the restaurant for its friendly staff and delectable offerings, ensuring everyone left satisfied. The lunchtime specials, known as the menu de jour, provide an affordable yet sumptuous way to experience the menu, featuring creative dishes that change periodically, appealing to all palates.
In keeping with the sophisticated yet relaxed vibe, Andrew Wilson describes it as “classy, elegant, and refined” dining. The choice between à la carte and a variety of set menus allows guests to indulge in their culinary desires, whether it's a casual meal or a grand feast. The restaurant's beautiful terrace, surrounded by lush gardens, invites diners to savor fresh air while enjoying artisanal dishes.
Sara Jacson underscores the restaurant's charm, highlighting the delightful flavors that breathe new life into traditional French fare—yes, even the snails! Each dish is crafted with care, displaying a flair for the unexpected yet remarkable combinations. The presentation of the food is as stunning as its taste, making every meal not just a dining experience but an artistic journey.
For those seeking value, Lee-Ann Fieldsted shares her experience of a three-course meal for just €25, which boasts an appetizing array of perfectly cooked dishes—from tender pork with light, flavorful sauce to a refreshing dessert of sorbets. This balance of portion sizes ensures you fulfill your cravings without feeling overwhelmed. The service is attentive yet unobtrusive, enhancing the overall experience by allowing diners to enjoy each course at a leisurely pace.
As you ponder your next culinary adventure, consider visiting Le Vieux Moulin. Whether you are craving the rich, rustic flavors of French cuisine or simply looking for a lovely place to gather with friends, this hidden gem in Chabanais promises a memorable meal and an enchanting atmosphere. With its intoxicating blend of ambiance, exquisite dishes, and heartfelt service, Le Vieux Moulin deserves a spot on your must-visit dining list.
“ We visited le Vieux Moulin again for my Birthday lunch with a group of friends. As always we were warmly welcomed and shown to our tables. Most of us had the menu de jour, one guest had her main course chosen from the 45€ menu and another had the full 45€ menu. Everyone was very pleased with what they had to eat and drink, including 4 guests for whom this was their first visit. We look forward to visiting again soon. ”
“ This is classy, elegant and refined french dining in a relaxed atmosphere. There are a variety of different formules on offer, or you can dine à la carte. The food is excellent with an interesting menu that changes regularly. There is dining on a beautiful terrace set beside a beautiful garden or indoors in what was originally an old mill, hence the name Le Vieux Moulin. This is the 3rd time that I have dined here and the experience is always memorable. Whenever I am in the Charante, I will dine here at least once. Highly recommended! ”
“ Love le Vieux Moulin - visit as often as I can when I'm in the Charente. Welcome, ambience and all those snails add to the charm! And the food is delicious, fresh and beautifully presented. Flavours might sound unusual on the menu, but believe me they work. Brilliantly. ”
“ Brilliant restaurant, great food and nice setting, staff very friendly and accommodating, highly recommended ”
“ Wonderful restaurant in Chabanais. We went on a Monday for the set menu for €25 for a 3 course meal. We got what I think was a salmon mousse in a petite earthenware cup, followed by a salad, the entree of pork and carrots and dessert of 3 sorbets. I forgot to take a photo of the menu description of the dishes and I don’t recall the exact names of the dishes. Everything was divine. Petite baguettes in a basket accompanied the meal, the pork was tender and had a delicately flavored sauce, and I want the recipe for those carrots which were cooked to perfection, not mushy and still retaining a bit of firmness to remind you it was once a crunchy vegetable . The salad had thinly sliced radishes and the perfect sized portion. Normally, I would never do a 3 course meal in America, because I wouldn’t be able to finish it, with the large sized portions. But these serving sizes were perfect. Their service was excellent, they kept an eye on when we finished our courses and brought food out at a leisurely but measured pace so that you never felt rushed and your stomach had a chance to digest and look forward to the next delight. I would love to come back and experience every day of the week set menu to try all their dishes, but alas, budget constrains me. For the price of €25, this is very good value for the wonderful experience you’ll receive here. The drinks are a little on the pricey side €6 for soft drinks. I did not view the wine menu as we don’t drink, so I can’t comment on price. Would highly recommend this lovely gem in Chabanais. We made a reservation online. Lunch opens at 12pm. Set menu only available on week days. Bon appétit ”
“ We were not able to joint for a lunch at Monday. Fully booked, no table and empty parking. Doesn't matter if You are already therem Maybe it was the best sign for case. Working hours are very short, booking through the site or call. Pond has no water in August (don't know if mill is working). ”
“ A very enjoyable lunch at La Vieux Moulin. We mixed à la carte with the plat du jour menus without a problem, and the food the wine and the local beer were all excellent. Service was at the perfect level, neither too slow nor too intrusive... Overall, high quality at a very reasonable price. Will definitely go again for another special occasion. Photo is the Duck from Plat du jour... ”
“ Another amazing meal at this fantastic restaurant, the food and service are excellent, I can highly recommend a visit here if you want a special meal ”