The House of Scent and Sweet Wine: Lucie’s never-ending generosity.

In the sun-drenched landscape of the South of France, near the Spanish border in the Pyrenees mountains, there lived a generous heart named Lucie. Her story is the foundation of this place, a memory cherished not just as a recollection but as the very essence of love made tangible. Lucie was the star around whom a young boy, Yannick, revolved. With his parents often working long hours in the family restaurant, her small, fragrant house became his true refuge, truly, a second home where he was the sole, magnificent object of her undivided attention.

Lucie’s days were a simple, romantic ceremony dedicated to one craft: making her grandson happy. She was the mistress of the local Food Market, sweeping through the town square each morning like a queen surveying her realm. She sought out treasures—the most succulent guinea fowl, the freshest eggs, cheeses that tasted of mountain air, and lamb chops so perfect they seemed sculpted for a feast. Back in her tiny house, the cooking began, a theatrical event where the wonderful smells—a heady, complex perfume of butter, roasting meat, and simmering wine—would fill every single crack in the plaster, overflowing the space with a riot of scent.

Once cooked to her exquisite liking, the house would fall into a state of sweet anticipation. Lucie would wait, her heart tuned to the apprehension of hearing the tiny front door open, marking the return of her schoolboy. And oh, the simple gifts she gave! Every lunch and dinner was prepared just for him, often accompanied by a secret, childhood indulgence: “vin sucre,” a whimsical blend of red wine, sugar, and water, offered like a magical potion. She gave him everything, an ocean of dedication, and he only ever hoped he returned enough love to fill her cup.

Lucie, the restaurant, is not merely named after her; it is a profound echo of those precious, cherished moments, an homage to her profound Love and undisputed generosity.

The Right Hand of Love: Chef Arnaud Bloquel

To inherit such a soulful, deeply personal legacy required more than culinary skill; it required a heart attuned to Lucie’s whimsical rhythm. That is why Chef Arnaud Bloquel was the only possible choice to take the helm.

Chef Bloquel did not come with the goal of creating a formal dining experience; he came to nurture a feeling. His own history and philosophy aligned perfectly with the deep-seated, comforting generosity that defined Lucie’s table. He understands that the soul of French cooking is not just found in precision, but in the warmth of the offering. Like Lucie, he begins his daily devotion at the source, treating every ingredient with the respect and expectation she did at her market stall.

Where Lucie translated love into the perfect guinea fowl, Chef Bloquel translates it into delicate, authentic French food made with precise techniques. His presence ensures that the spirit of her small kitchen, where the scents were almost too much to handle and the attention was absolute, continues to thrive. He is the guardian of her passion, guaranteeing that every guest who crosses the threshold tastes not just fine cuisine, but a glimpse of Lucie’s Spirit and Generosity—a loving, dedicated feast for the heart, offered once again, just for us.

Merci Mamie Lucie, Merci Chef Aranud

Yannick Bigourdan, owner and Lucie’s proud Grandson.