Chez Claudette

One of those French bistros you dream about, but rarely find.
Chez Claudette's is in the tiny village of Saint Roman de Malegarde.
A Bistrot de Pays we look forward to visiting every year.
It never disappoints.
You have to book if you want to make sure of getting a table, and it is advisable to arrive at 12 o clock  .

Such a buzz about the place. A happy mixture of locals, tradesmen, vineyard workers, cyclists and holiday makers.
Claudette is now over 70, and not too good on her legs, so she serves behind the bar, and brings the coffee.
Her daughter now runs things. She takes the orders, serves the food and clears the tables.
I have never seen anyone so well organised, move so quickly, and work so hard, always with a smile.
The first course is a help yourself buffet of 10 or more salads, meats, terrines,quiches etc. Go back for seconds if you wish.
Then a choice of two main courses. Today it was pork, or veal.
We had the veal, which was a thin slice rolled round a stuffing and served with a delicious tomato sauce, and green beans.
Followed by a help yourself cheese board, with a selection of 6 different cheeses.
Then the desserts. You have to listen carefully as she reels off the eight choices.
Mr C had a citron glace, and I had a sort of trifle.
Included in the price of 13 euros was a jug of red wine, a jug of water,
and a basket of bread.
The bread is refilled when empty, and also the water replenished without you even having to ask.
The efficiency with which this is all done is remarkable. There were about 60 of us today. Everyone served in turn. No one had to wait. Just the right amount of time between courses.
I just wish there were places like this back home.
We certainly look forward to returning next year.
Thank you Claudette and your daughter, and the lady in the kitchen who was seeing to the washing up!

Looking forward to the music festival in Vaison  la Romaine tonight.
I think it will be hot!

Many thanks for all your kind comments for the past few days. I do appreciate them all. Hope the weather is still good for you too.