La Vieille Porte — Restaurant in Le Mans

Decided to eat here during a morning visit to the town following my rule of always eat where the locals seem to be eating. What a fantastic place and is highly recommended for anyone to eat here; the staff are exceptionally friendly and helpful even to non French speakers such as ourselves (being Welsh). The food was wonderful to say the least, the steak was, well go there and try it for yourself and you'll see. As a rule I'm not keen on mashed potato but theirs was stunning, smooth, creamy and completely delicious with a curious brown colour which the waiter explained was because they had put mushroom in it. I could go on raving but who would read it? Do yourself a favour, if you're in Le Mans, just try it, you wont be disappointed, oh and for under 12 euros each!

If anyone from the bistro reads this, thank you so much for a wonderful meal, one my wife and I wont...

Great place, we have been stopping off here and going to Le Vieille Porte for many years now, consistent friendly, efficient staff and excellent food, delivered in an expected time even when they are flying around with a packed house, dealing with the many 'walk ins' as well. The menu is fairly simple, all good and with something for all. We are there on Fridays, always a day when you need to book. If you don't think your French is up to it knock on the door if there is someone there before 7pm and they will take a booking. Turn up at 7pm and you will probably be too late unless happy to come back later. We are 60+, 2 starters, 2 mains, both then had cheese and all with a carafe of house wine and left very happy. 68 Euros plus a well earned tip makes it...

La cuisine traditionnelle is alive and well at La Vielle Porte. I had Foie Gras a splendid piece de boeuf and riz au lait, all cooked to perfection. My wife had the beef preceded with a salad with wrm goats cheese and magret and followed by a gooey chocolate pudding. Our waitress kindly helped me choose Loire wines to match the meal. The biggest surprise was the bill: 119 Euros including coffee and a calvados for me - though we were also offered a complimentary house digestif. Great cooking at a great price. We are sad to be heading back to dreary and expensive food in the UK. Merci a l'equipe de La...