Best Places to Eat in Mont Saint Michel France

Foodie Adventures at Mont Saint-Michel:

While Mont Saint-Michel boasts charming restaurants and cafes within its walls, the island itself is more about the experience than fine dining. Here’s a look at some classic eats you’ll find there:

Savory Treats:

  • Omelette with Apples & Cider: This isn’t just any omelette - it’s the famous “Omelette de la Mère Poulard” made on the island since 1888. Made with fresh eggs and cooked over an open fire, these fluffy, flavorful omelettes are a must-try.

  • Crêpes: No trip to France is complete without indulging in some delicious crêpes. From sweet crêpes filled with butter and honey to savory ones with cheese and ham, you’ll find plenty of vendors selling this classic street food.

  • Caramel au Beurre Salé: This iconic Norman treat is a sweet and salty experience for your taste buds. Enjoy a variety of flavors like the traditional “salted butter” (caramelized with sea salt) or indulge in unique combinations with apple, caramel, and even a touch of Calvados.

  • Caramel candies: These are a popular souvenir and snack from Mont Saint-Michel, as it’s renowned for its production of this sweet delight.

  • Souvenirs & Treats:

    • Crêpes: The traditional “caramel au beurre salé” (salty caramel) is a classic for a reason and a must-try while visiting.

Savory Treats:

  • Seafood: As a bayside island, Mont Saint-Michel offers fresh seafood options like oysters, mussels, and clams.
    • Crêpes: The island’s culinary legacy extends to its delicious and famous “crêpes” which are often sold as street food. You can expect traditional savory fillings like “ham and cheese” (jambon et fromage), “cheese and apple” (fromage et pommes), or even “fried eggs and potatoes”.

Food to look for:

  • Crepe stands: Look for vendors near the entrance to the island, particularly in the village surrounding the abbey. They often offer variations on the classic “Norman omelette,” a local specialty made with locally sourced ingredients.
  • Local markets: These are a great place to find fresh, local produce and seafood.

Remember:

  • Local Markets: These are popular among tourists for their charming atmosphere and delicious regional products.

“Galettes” (Savory Crepes):

  • You’ll find these savory buckwheat crepes everywhere on the island. They’re a delicious way to experience the local cuisine.

Sweet Treats:

  • Crêpes au beurre: This traditional treat is thin and delicate, cooked with butter and often served with sweet toppings like whipped cream, caramel sauce, or fruit.
  • “La Mère Poulard” bakery: The famous “La Mère Poulard” bakery offers a variety of delicious pastries, including the sweet treats mentioned above.

For the foodie interested in local history, you can’t miss the “couche” (a thick, fluffy omelette):

  • Traditional Sweetings:

    Think about trying it with some classic “Norman” fillings like apples and ham, or butter and sugar.

  • “La Mère Poulard” Sauce: The famous restaurant at “La Mère Poulard” is known for its unique approach to the traditional omelette. Their “La Mère Poulard” (a type of sweet crêpe)

Sweet Treats:

  • Caramel au beurre salé: These are a popular snack, with the savory “Jambon andouille” (a local smoked sausage) variety being a must-try.

  • The “Jambon” in the “Couche”:

Look for these “coupes de crêpe” (slices of ham) sold at markets around the island.

Other Tourist Favorites:

  • Crêperies: Enjoy the variety of crepes with sweet or savory fillings, and don’t forget to ask for a “coupe de coupe” (a slice of the famous “La Coupe” dessert).
  • Caramel Shops: These are often found near the base of the island, offering different types of “jambonette” and other “caramel-based” treats.

Remember:

  • Many eateries on Mont Saint Michel offer traditional “crepes” (thin crepes), which are a thin, savory crepe variety made with local ingredients and are perfect for a quick bite.

  • Caramel tasting menus: Look out for these unique menus that showcase the island’s renowned culinary history in a delightful and interactive way.

Local delicacies:

  • La “Couche”: This delicious dessert is a must-try, but be prepared to line up for a taste of this local delicacy.

  • Caramel au beurre salé:

  • Try the “Jambon au beurre salé”: This is a dish that showcases the island’s famous salted butter and its unique flavor profile. This traditional dish features locally sourced ham, often cooked with butter and cider salt.

  • “La Mère Poulard” stands are a must-visit:

You can enjoy delicious “caramel au beurre salé” (sweet crêettes) in the various cafes and shops on the island.

Try local dishes like “Soupe de poisson” (fish soup), “Agneau de pré-salé” (salt-meadow lamb) and “Crêpes à la crème fraîche” (crêpes with sour cream).

Enjoy!