French Culinary Tradition Warms Up El Tarter

### French Culinary Tradition Warms Up El Tarter

As relentless winter snowfalls blanket Andorra, diners are seeking hearty comforts at Les Tables de l’Ours in El Tarter. This restaurant channels the aesthetic of high-mountain refuges, with warm wood panelling, textiles, and a prominent, well-stocked wine cellar illuminating one wall. French classics dominate the menu, updated with contemporary touches in a cosy space ideal for escaping the cold.

A recent visit highlighted the appeal. Guests were seated fireside by Marie as snow began falling outside on Carrer de Sant Pere. Starters include terrine of foie gras with chickpeas, gratineed onion soup, and lentil cream with egg and truffle mousse. Mains feature confit lamb shoulder with carrot cream and dauphinois gratin, traditional beef stew with pilaf rice, or pappardelle with truffle. Signature dishes steal the show: Savoyard cheese fondue from Père Jean, raclette, Mont d’Or, and pierrade with beef and chicken.

Sharing proved ideal for a group of three: a foie gras terrine—generous portions with lightly toasted bread, contrasting creamy pâté against crunchy chickpeas—paired with fondue and pierrade. Diners cooked meats to taste on hot stones, accompanied by grilled vegetables and dauphinois gratins. Desserts impressed with chocolate fondant and profiteroles. A 2021 Neo Ribera del Duero, limited to 15,000 bottles and aged in French and American oak, complemented the rich meats and cheeses with its full-bodied, aromatic finish.

**Les Tables de l’Ours** *Address:* Carrer de Sant Pere, 4, El Tarter *Phone:* +376 695 465 *Hours:* 13:00-15:30 and 18:30-21:45; open daily during season *Average price (excluding wine):* €50-60 *Ambiance:* High-mountain refuge *Parking:* 50 metres away *Recommended dish:* Fondue

### Gastronomic Highlights Across Andorra

Grandvalira hosts High Cuisine Michelin Days from February to March, featuring starred chefs Pep Moreno, Enrique Pérez, Fran López, and Rafa Zafra. Exclusive menus in iconic ski resort spots blend premium ingredients, haute cuisine, and alpine settings. Reservations are essential due to limited places.

In La Massana, the Fogons winter food festival runs until 28 February, showcasing local, zero-kilometre produce through special dishes at participating parish restaurants. Diners collect stamps in a gastronomic passport; three qualify for a prize nocturnal stargazing session.

Escaldes-Engordany’s Plaça de l’Església de Sant Pere Màrtir hosts the latest Encants de Sant Antoni market. Neighbours donate artisanal items for auction, with all proceeds to the local Càritas. Traditional dances and performances by Esbart Santa Anna round out the solidary event.