Le Gourmillon, Avallon
Tucked into the old town just off the main pedestrian street, Le Gourmillon is the kind of neighbourhood bistro that Burgundy does better than anywhere else in France — honest, seasonal cooking built around local producers, a short wine list heavy on Chablis and Irancy, and a room that feels like it has been feeding the town for decades. It is the place locals take out-of-town guests when they wan
What to Order
The menu changes with the seasons but certain signatures reappear: a terrine of jambon du Morvan with cornichons and mustard to start, followed by andouillette grillée or a slow-braised bœuf bourguignon that arrives in its copper dish with enough sauce to mop up with half a baguette. Vegetable sides are sourced from the market and change weekly.
For dessert the tarte au fromage blanc — a light, barely-sweet Burgundian cheesecake — is the one to order if it appears on the board. Pair the meal with a glass of Irancy, the small Yonne-valley red made from Pinot Noir that rarely travels far from the region and is criminally underrated.
Atmosphere & Practicalities
The dining room is small — perhaps ten tables — with stone walls, checked tablecloths and the background noise of a kitchen that takes its work seriously but not solemnly. Service is friendly and unstuffy; the patron will happily discuss the provenance of whatever is on the plate if you show genuine curiosity.
Lunch is the better-value option: a two-course weekday formule typically runs around €15–18 and includes a glass of local wine. Book ahead for weekend dinner as the room fills quickly with Parisians who have driven down for the weekend.
More of Avallon
Discover where to stay, what to do and the best deals for your trip.
Explore Avallon →
