La Table de Vialard — Restaurant in Sarlat-la-Canéda

We were impressed by the exceptionally good feedback on this restaurant and lunched here on10 June. Our expectations were high but, sadly, were not met. There were several good things about the meal; service was friendly and expert, the ambiance good, parking easy and close by. We took the 32 Euro Menu Printanier but, in retrospect, the menu du jour at less than half the price would have been a better choice. Our entrées were foie gras (mi cuit) and scallops. The foie gras was fine. The scallops were presented in an unusual sauce - interesting but not wholly to my taste. My wife’s duck main was fine. My beef with foie gras was very disapppointing. I had requested rare (entre sanglant et medium); what I got was a tiny piece of massively overcooked steak, with, however, an excellent piece of pan fried foie gras on top. I should have sent it back, but I didn’t. The deserts were original and were enjoyed. When I was asked if the meal had pleased us I politely complained about the cuisson of the meat and the response was an apology and complimentary coffees, an appreciated gesture, but the damage had been done. Another thing: the meal was characterised by a distinct, and somewhat unusual, lack of generosity. No nibbles were offered with the aperitifs, there were no amuse bouches, the foie gras entrée was the thinnest slice we have ever been served and my dried out portion of meat was correspondingly minimal. These gripes may be seen as unreasonable expectations, but such lack of generosity is weighed by customers when they reflect on the experience and when they consider whether or not to return. One final quibble; there was a very minimal selection of dry white wines - perhaps only 3 or 4 choices. We drank an adequate Burgundy. In summary, some good things to say but overall a disappointing meal and experience. It may be that we were there on an uncharacteristically bad day, but I doubt that we will wish to further explore that...

Starting with the cured hams infused with truffle and homemade foie gras and then the duck breast in filo pastry accompanied by fries cooked in beef fat. The desserts were equally impressive and delicious. The passion this kitchen has for the local food and wine is amazing. I would highly recommend going out of your way for this one. Eating outside in the spring/summer must be the...

We took friends here and had a really good experience. Sandrine, our server, was super helpful and friendly. The food came out fast - two ‘crousti’ (maigret canard in a pastry sleeve) and two lamb (agneau) - also just right. By the time we left, the place was full. We are very happy to have Le Table as we live nearby and will certainly return with friends and family visiting from...