Restaurants
There are dozens of cafes, take aways and restaurants. With a range to suit all budgets and tastes. Here are some of our favourites.
French
There is no limit to good options here as the French do enjoy their own cuisine. So we have quite a few recommendations.
For best 'value' the Bivouac on the main pedestrian zone is the winner for lunch or dinner. The steak and chips is the best in town and no one has better salads. Try the chicken liver salad, it is a treat.
L'Impossible has taken the lead as the best French restaurant for atmosphere. It makes you feel special to be there for dinner and the food is very good. To impress a date or go somewhere as a group it is the best option in Chamonix. The oysters are first class and the Côte de Boeuf a specialty worth a try at least once in your life.
The Panier du 4 Saisons rates a very special mention for the food alone. Small and well hidden in a not so romantic building this restaurant offers very, very good French cuisine. Small groups only and although not cheap it still represents good value. Great desserts if you can fit one in.
Further up the valley there are two notable recommendations, the Hotel Eden and Le Sarpe, both situated in La Praz.
International
Even though Italy is only over the hill, it is another country. We often find ourselves at Casa Valerio
for the pasta or a pizza from the wood fired oven.
La Spiga D'or is a deli during the day and a great value Italian eatery at night.
If you fancy your self as a big eater try the "Assiette la Spiga" anti pasta plate for a starter. It is not only magnificent but huge as well.
Modern
The best is this category over recent years has been Munchie. The smoked prawns or maki of the day followed by steak or duck is truly a meal to remember
If you are part of a group who want to dine here please inform us as early as possible so we can arrange a booking.
Goophy as described in the Bar section is a great place for similar nosh.
Burgers
For some reason Chamonix seems to be the burger capital of the Alps. There is a fierce competition and strong loyalties to the many burger joints in Cham but our vote goes to Belouga.
This long term favourite of many locals serves the best burger outside of Queanbeyan, Australia. My personal choice is the Sunlight with chilli sauce. Try it I think you will agree.
Pizza
Another strong competition here brings out the best in its competitors. The Nomadic Team frequents Casa Valerio and has done so for the last few years. We will stand by our allegiances, although Pizza Salsa has many supporter and is easier to do a drive by.
Pub Grub
The Jekyl Irish Pub has to be the busiest pub kitchen and for good reason. Book early if you want a seat.
Quiche
For many years we would only eat quiche like real men ie.on the way home from the Pub from a local baker known affectionately as the "Quiche Man". Those days are gone, as he is now making chocolates for a living.
We feel it is still worth noting the finest example of this national French dish. Especially when it is this good. The Thon (Tuna) Quiche at the Boulangerie and Salon de The, near Snell Sport is the centre of town is well worth the trip.
Saturday Market
Although mentioned in another section it seems wrong to discuss the valleys food offerings and not bring to light the fabulous market on a Saturday morning. Something the French do and the rest imitate. Needless to say the local cheeses, meats, fresh breads, fruit, vegetables and other local delicacies are the best you can get.
The most notable of stands is that of 'Chicken Man' who is has done for BBQ chicken what Michelangelo did for painting the ceiling. Raised it to an art form. What else can we say but join the queue.
