The Ermitage restaurant, which was taken over a few years ago by Laurent Gambart and his wife, has built a fine reputation. In this former sheepfold, listed as a historic monument in Espaly-Saint-Marcel, you can enjoy refined and traditional cuisine prepared with local products and awarded a Bib Gourmand since 2023. Today, people come from Lyon, Clermont-Ferrand, and Ardèche to discover the chef's recipes and enjoy a unique view of the city.
How has your cuisine evolved since you took over the restaurant?
Laurent Gambart: Covid caused us a bit of a problem, and we were forced to cook with ingredients sourced from all over the place. This made us realize how many excellent products we have right here! So we started working with all the producers in our area.
And with which ones?
Laurent Gambart: I'll take the Pierregrosse farm as an example, which supplies us with meat, whether it's veal or lamb. And then, we also work with Prim'Services, which sells excellent local products. As for our fish, it comes directly from the sea thanks to an association that delivers it to us.
Has your customer base expanded?
Laurent Gambart: Yes, there's a big difference today. Customers appreciate the fresher, more flavorful cuisine we offer. We now prioritize local sourcing. And the Bib Gourmand we received in 2023 has broadened our clientele. We have customers coming from Lyon, Saint-Étienne, Clermont-Ferrand, and the Ardèche region. The Bib Gourmand has helped us raise the profile of our establishment.
How would you describe your cuisine?
Laurent Gambart: It's simple, classic, and traditional cuisine. I start with good foundations, good products, and good sauces. At this time of year, I like to cook with local purple asparagus and beef, for example.
And then you cook the honey from your hives?
Laurent Gambart: Yes. It comes from the four beehives located above the restaurant. The bees produce a wildflower honey that I use to enhance the flavor of fresh cheeses or crème brûlée. I use it a lot in cooking for seasonings.
73 avenue de l’Ermitage 43000 Espaly-Saint-Marcel
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