🌟 A Hidden Michelin-Starred Gem in the French Countryside

🍽 Restaurant L'Épine 📍 19 Pl. de la République, 37190 Azay-le-Rideau (Just 20 mins from Tours, nestled in the Loire Valley castle region) ✨ Why Make the Trip? 1️⃣ New 2024 Michelin Star – A shining star in an unassuming town! 2️⃣ Historic 1866 Building – Where stone walls meet modern design 3️⃣ Power Couple Chefs: 👩‍🍳 Wendy (front of house) + 👨‍🍳 Sébastien (kitchen) Years of culinary expertise, committed to local ingredients + global inspiration Think: Loire Valley mushrooms & cream × Japanese nori & sesame fusion 🍷 A Feast for the Senses "Terroir Poetry" Tasting Menu: 🍄 Seasonal truffle risotto (paired with Loire white wine) 🐟 Buttery pan-seared pike-perch (with Burgundy Chardonnay) Wine Lover’s Paradise: Each course comes with carefully curated Loire Valley wines – sommelier speaks English (and friendly "wine Chinese"!) 📝 Need to Know ⏰ Allow 3 hours for the full tasting menu experience 💰 €80-120 per person (with wine pairing) 🚗 Driving Directions: Search "Château d'Azay-le-Rideau" – restaurant is right by the castle square 🌿 Nearby Must-See: A 5-minute walk to the fairytale Château d'Azay-le-Rideau (insta-perfect!) #FrenchRoadTripEats #LoireValleyDining #HiddenGems