Undoubtedly, one of the greatest joys of summer in Provence is spending several hours sous le soileil leisurely dining at an outdoor café. A little bit of delicious, a touch of rosé and wonderful people-watching are guaranteed. And one of the most gorgeous spots to do so is on the place or town square of the small village of Maussane in the heart of the Alpilles. I think that I have finally have found my favorite restaurant there, one with an excellent rapport qualité-prix. I had mentioned L’Oustaloun in A taste of summer some while back. So long ago that we were still in our last apartment and we had just had a garden party. Le sigh. But back to the happy bits…
…such as this so simple but so good it hurts chevre croustillant or tart goat cheese wrapped in a light phyllo and drizzled with…honey. Ooh. This was the starter for the menu du jour at only 17€…
…one followed by a plat of tender beef filets and cumin-spiced potatoes served with a divine garlic cream sauce for dipping. As I only have beef only a few times per year (after nearly twenty years of being allergic to all the crazy business that has been added to so much American beef), I want it to be perfect and yes, voila. This is comfort food folks, done well and so what more do you need for a relaxed afternoon? But I will be back for their more complex autumn/winter menu most certainly…
My Sister was absolutely delighted with her more reasonable and seasonable Planche Fraicheur–consider it a summer Best Of including gazpacho, jambon sec, more goat cheese plus a salad and crostini–at 18€ with a glass of wine included. She appreciated the quality of all of that was served as well as the dose of freshness on a hot summer day.
I never like to feel closed in on a terrace and in Arles our Place du Forum can be a bit of a circus with so much bustle and push. Not so at L’Oustaloun with a wide open view of the church with its random ringing bell, the swish of the plane trees and the sweet mist from the neighbouring fountain. Now, if you don’t feel the Provençal charm in such an environment, I am not sure where you will…
The service was flawless, old-school style. Never intrusive yet friendly and on top of the game. Mr. Ben was brought a giant bowl of water and well, of course, he had many bits served under the table. As you can see, he was equally pleased by our visit.
This lunch was took place on the last day of my Sister’s visit and what a fine experience it was. As I mentioned in the previous post, L’Oustaloun also has charming rooms at very reasonable prices. For anyone looking to truly immerse themselves in the experience of an authentic, albeit elegant Provençal village, look no further than this lovely address.
L’Oustaloun
place de L’Église
13520 Maussane-Les-Alpilles
Tel.: +33 (0)4 90 54 45 57
www.loustaloun.com
Bon appétit!
Merci beaucoup!!! Et Bonne Continuation pour 2013…Vivement l'été!! 🙂
Happy New Year,
Heather
I find your blog on internet by looking a picture of l'Oustaloun,and I would like to thank you about your kindly text of my etablissement.
I wish you an Happy new year for 2013 and I hope to see you again in summer on my terrasse.
Best regards
Marielle & Thierry Fabregoul
l'OUSTALOUN Maussane les Alpilles
Dear Heather,
I just find your blog on internet by a picture of l' Oustaloun ,and I would like to thank you about your kindly text of my Etablissement.
I wish you a happy new year for 2013 and I hope to see you again during summer on my terrass .
Cordialement
Marielle & Thierry Fabregoul
L' Oustaloun Maussane les Alpilles
Oh, yum. My mouth is watering…
~ Clare x
I can practically taste the food and feel the sun and the breeze.
But it was only in hindsight that I realized how it topped the list! Good sister – GOOD!!!!! : )
Oh Heather, this post is killing me. How delicious to spend a warm summer afternoon devouring a perfectly prepared meal. Wish I could join you and Ben for a long leisurely lunch and lots of rosé! Happy Friday! XO