Table Gourmande Ile De Re Jules SerrurierTable Gourmande Ile De Re Jules Serrurier
©Table Gourmande Ile De Re Jules Serrurier|Jules Serrurier

A tasty island

Where wonder and delight are one and the same

The island of Ré is a true gourmet destination, where every meal is a discovery. Whether you’re drawn to seafood, local specialties or sweet treats, the island promises a memorable culinary experience.

A unique taste journey

A gastronomic dinner, a bistro, a terrace on the harbor, a table with your feet in the water, an oyster hut in the middle of the marshes, are all opportunities to treat your taste buds to the local flavors of the Retais.

It’s impossible to talk about the gastronomy of Ré without mentioning the treasures of the ocean.

Ile de Ré oysters, renowned for their delicate, iodized taste, are a must. Carefully raised in the island’s oyster beds, they can be eaten plain, with a drizzle of lemon or a shallot sauce.
Another of the region’s flagship products, produced using ancestral methods, is Île de Ré sea salt. This “white gold”, in particular fleur de sel, was awarded its IGP in 2023.
Salicorne, a herbaceous halophilous plant found in the marshes of the Ré region, is also a product of the Ré marshes. Considered the “pickle” of the sea, it is the ideal companion for an original burger recipe.

Pomme de terre PDO (PDO potato) contributes to the island’s gastronomic reputation. Hand-harvested in spring, these potatoes are distinguished by their thin skin and melting flesh. They are perfect roasted in the oven, in salads or as an accompaniment to grilled fish.

As for vineyards, the island produces top-quality AOC wines, notably light, fruity whites and rosés. A visit to one of the local wineries allows you to discover the secrets of retaise viticulture and taste unique cuvées, often accompanied by local produce for a complete experience. Cognac and pineau lovers will also find something to suit their tastes!

Sweet tooths won’t be left out. Traditional cookies, such as galettes rétaises, are a delight not to be missed. Made with butter and local flour, they can be enjoyed at any time of day, with a cup of tea or coffee.
Fleur de sel caramel, handmade on the island, is another specialty to savor. Its creamy texture and sweet-salty taste make it an irresistible sweet treat. And don’t forget to try one of the honeys made with passion by the island’s beekeepers, who are just as keen to help you discover their craft as they are to share with you the flavours of this delicious, gourmet delicacy.

The importance of eating locally and in season

Consuming local and seasonal produce is a veritable philosophy of life on the Ile de Ré. Not only does it support local producers and preserve artisanal know-how, it also reduces our carbon footprint by limiting transport. Local produce, harvested or caught when ripe, is also tastier and more nutritious. The island’s restaurateurs are fervent supporters of this approach. Many make a point of cooking with local, seasonal ingredients, guaranteeing fresh, high-quality dishes.

Good to know!

A valuable piece of information for visitors interested in discovering the gastronomy of the Ile de Ré is the opportunity to take part in culinary workshops and gastronomic tours.
Several producers offer immersive experiences where you can discover the secrets behind the production of local specialties.

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