Steak Frites in Montpellier, France.

It was an unexpected stop on a 3-month cross-Europe rail adventure. As it turned out though, the 4-day visit to Montpellier proved to be one of our most favorite experiences. And, by far, one of our best meals.

Murphy’s Law

Our original plan was to spend five nights in Lyon, France. Murphy’s Law prevailed in that what could go wrong, went wrong. Sometimes you just have to pay attention to the signs from the universe. After just one night in Lyon we hopped on the morning train and continued on to Montpellier, France. It proved to be such a gift.

Steak & Fries

While wandering the charming alleyways in Montpellier we were scouting potential lunch spots. We came across L’Entrecote. Two things made us stop. One, there was an outside patio and it was a gorgeous day, and two, the steak and fries looked amazingly delicious.

Montepllier L'entrecote
We dined under one of the umbrellas. By far one of our best meals ever. The setting, the company was wonderful, and the food was to die for.

Once seated, with menus open, we had no idea how to order and our server did not speak English. Our French is limited to the basics. Seated across the narrow aisle from us a British man intervened on our behalf. He ordered, for us, steak frites. So simple. We would learn it was the only available entree on the menu.

L’Entrecote does one thing and they do it incredibly well. The fries were hot, fresh and salty, while the steak was tender and seasoned perfectly. The secret’s in the sauce so they say.

steak frites
If I remember correctly, salad was served before the main entree, which is unusual in France.
The Brit & The Swiss

Lunch lasted nearly three hours. It was an amazing experience. If you’ve ever dined in France, and most European countries, you know tables are usually quite small and placed close to each other. We had quite the lively conversation with our British friend, and as it turned out a Swiss couple was seated right next to us. They too joined in the conversation, although their English was more hesitant.

Montpellier, France

Since our unplanned stay in Montpellier, which we loved every minute of, and for years to come if you ask either one of us to describe one of our all-time favorite meals, you better believe steak frites at L’Entrecote in Montpellier will be at the top of the list.

  • Tuesday Takes. Each post in the series will focus on one or two photos, or possibly a video, from our travels, as well as the background story behind the photo(s). Tuesday Takes will be shared in random order with no rhyme or reason as to why. It will be a surprise for all of us.

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for new content notifications.

Share: