PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIANestled in the heart of Civic, you could be forgiven for never noticing Ardeche. But you’ve been missing out on one of Civic’s best-kept secrets. Ardeche is perfectly situated; near shops, work and the theatre. Pop in before a show, after some serious retail therapy, or just for a quick and delicious lunch. Inside it is sleek and stylish, with just a hint of Provence. The food is authentic and tasty, but is much more French in style than North African.
Start traditionally, with French onion soup served with parmesan croutons or pate with pickled onions, capers and toast. If you’re feeling hungry try to tackle the coquilles Saint-Jacques – delicious scallops and prawns served with asparagus and saffron risotto. Moving on to mains, the house special is the unmissable canard a l’orange – beautifully roasted duck, basted in orange and Grand Marnier sauce and served on roasted potato. For those who find duck a bit rich, it’s hard to fault the boeuf bourguignon – full of flavour, mushrooms, onions, carrots and bacon, and fittingly served with French fries. Finish it all off with another French classique, tarte tatin or crepes suzette peut-etre! Ardeche is just lovely – the meals are generous, well-cooked, rich and tasty – all things great French food should be!
Russell Buzby, October 2008
