There have been several notable new developments in the Saint-Gatien Cathedral district of Tours in recent months. Among these is the opening of La Belle Vue, a food court concept, and Ganache, a patisserie that marks the second location of the founder of Beurre Noisette, a well-known local pastry brand. These additions contribute to the growing culinary scene in the area.
Moving up toward the Loire River, Lavoisier Street has also seen fresh activity. La Grange des Celtes, a crêperie, has undergone renovations and now offers a modernized menu. Nearby, at number 16 on the same street, Le Bistro des Frangins has recently opened, continuing the culinary legacy of the Frangins brothers, Valentin and Simon.
The brothers previously operated a popular bistro called La Grange des Frangins in Saint-Cyr-sur-Loire, known for its open wine cellar where guests could select their own wine. This concept, also seen at Vivant in Joué, has been adapted in the new location, with a bright dining room that highlights the area’s historic stone walls. If guests are unsure which wine to choose, the staff is available to offer expert guidance.
The menu at Le Bistro des Frangins features a selection of wines from various French regions, including the Loire Valley, Burgundy, and the Rhône. A 2023 vintage red from Mercurey, produced by Louis Jadot, priced at 50€, pairs well with dishes like faux filet (a type of beef) and canette (duck). The menu emphasizes traditional French cooking, with contemporary twists such as a strong, aromatic massa-miel sauce for the duck and a Porto reduction for the sausage.
Lunch set menus are available at 25€, including a starter, main course, and dessert, which is in line with average prices in the center of Tours. The menu also offers fixed prices: 9€ for starters and desserts, and 19€ for main courses, with options such as beef rib or pork rib. The portions are generous and are best enjoyed with fries, a buttered hazelnut purée, or vegetables. The service is friendly and efficient, and the attention to detail, such as using butchers' mincers to cut the meat, reflects the brothers' commitment to quality. The overall atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making it a pleasant place to dine.
New Developments and Dining Options Emerge Near Saint-Gatien Cathedral in Tours
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