The 11 Perfect Weekend Brunch in Annecy, France

My husband and I were in the mood for a casual yet satisfying lunch near our hotel in Manhattan. Having spotted Bagel Pura Vida online, we decided to check it out for a quick bite.

Stepping inside, we were pleased to see the variety of freshly made bagels and salad options available for either eating in or taking out. After perusing the menu, I settled on the Bagel Pura Vida & Greens while my husband chose the Mamma-Mia Bagel & Greens.

When our orders arrived, we were happily surprised by the generous portions. Both salads featured crisp mixed greens topped with flavorful ingredients that complemented the unique bagel flavors. I really enjoyed the goat cheese, tomato, and pesto on my bagel.

As we ate, I was also struck by how clean and bright the space was. It was clear Bagel Pura Vida takes pride in preparing and presenting wholesome, nutrient-packed food.

We finished feeling very satisfied, especially considering the reasonable prices. To warm up, we each got a hot chocolate which was creamy and comforting.

Overall, Bagel Pura Vida delivers freshly made, healthy fare for an easy, filling meal in a casual setting. I’d gladly return for another nourishing lunch or brunch experience next time we’re in the area.

3. Le Bar Roux d’Heure

During our recent trip to London, my husband and I were on the hunt for a quality weekend brunch spot. After searching online, Cafe Delights kept coming up as a top recommendation. I’m so glad we gave it a try!

From the moment we walked in on a sunny Saturday, it was clear this place was buzzing for a reason. The delicious aroma of freshly baked bread and coffee hung in the air. When we sat down, the brunch menu offered myriad indulgent options.

We began with a plate of seasonal sliced fruits and berries, perfectly sweet and tart. Accompanied by the cafe’s homemade granola and Greek yogurt, it was the ideal start to our morning.

For our mains, I ordered the shakshuka with poached eggs, greens, and toast. So flavorful and satisfying! My husband couldn’t stop raving about his American-style pancakes and their heavenly cinnamon crumble topping. Simply incredible.

Throughout multiple rounds of fresh juices and coffee, we continued to be impressed by Cafe Delights’ attention to detail and quality ingredients. No wonder locals kept returning weekend after weekend!

By the time we left, we understood why this had risen to the top of the list for brunch. We returned several more times during our stay, never wanting to eat brunch anywhere else. Cafe Delights definitely served the best in town.

4. Granny smith

After flying into Geneva from New York, my partner and I picked up our rental car to drive to Annecy. Unfortunately, by the time we arrived at our destination, a full-blown blizzard was occurring. Visibility was low and the streets were covered in snow.

With limited time and options due to the early closing, we scanned Annecy’s main strip for somewhere to grab a bite. That’s when we came upon Cafe Lola, a charming vegan cafe tucked between shops. Even in the wintery conditions, its warm glow looked inviting.

Stepping inside the cozy space, which was done up with mismatched furniture and plants, we were relieved to find it still serving. Quickly scanning the menu of soups, sandwiches, and snacks, we placed our order.

Within minutes, our selected dishes arrived – a wrap and vegan mac and cheese that emanated heat. Tucking in, we found the simple preparations to be full of flavor. Just what we needed on that cold evening.

Though we didn’t get to explore Annecy more due to the weather, discovering Cafe Lola made the experience memorable. Even for non-vegans, it offers a comfortable atmosphere and tasty fare. We’ll remember this welcoming bright spot fondly when we return in summer.

5. Tête de Cochon

After several days of exploring Lyon, my spouse and I were on the hunt for a low-key yet high quality dinner spot. Scouring Travelocity reviews led us to Chez Michel, though from the outside it seemed indistinguishable from neighboring places.

We were pleasantly surprised upon entering to find a charming interior decorated in a country French style. Even better, the staff greeted us with genuine warmth and friendliness.

It quickly became clear why Chez Michel had earned such rave reviews. Though modest in appearance, the food was absolutely delicious – homemade, fresh, and bursting with flavor.

Between traditional dishes like coq au vin and bouillabaisse, we sampled several with gusto. What stood out most was how reasonable the prices were considering the stellar quality.

On our last night, we regretfully revisited it as it had become our favorite find. After several fantastic meals there, we understood the loyal following Chez Michel has attracted while flying under the radar on a neighborhood strip.

While it blends into the streetscape, within those doors is exceptional cooking, service, and value. No question why guest reviews justly praise this hidden gem. Highly recommended for an authentic Lyon experience.

6. Le Tanoue

While wandering the charming streets of Annecy one afternoon, my husband and I were on the hunt for a light lunch spot. That’s when we came upon Le Tanoue, a bakery/cafe that was too appealing to pass up.

With many savory and sweet filled bread options on offer, it was difficult to choose. After much deliberation, we selected salmon bread, chicken bread, goat cheese bread, and mozzarella bread to share.

Baked to perfection, we were impressed by the quality and variety of fillings. Each one packed vivid flavor into every bite. The salmon in particular stood out for its freshness and subtle seasoning.

After noshing on those, I couldn’t resist trying one of the sweet options as well. Opting for Nutella bread, it paired perfectly with Le Tanoue’s rich hot chocolate.

What we appreciated most was how carefully the artisans sourced ingredients from local producers for maximum freshness. It really shone through in the end products.

As a filling pick-me-up, Le Tanoue delivered seamlessly. I would absolutely recommend dropping by this cozy bakery for tasty treats during any Annecy visit.

7. Liber Art

After a lively morning exploring the Annecy outdoor market, my travel companions and I were in need of fuel and caffeine. Spotting Le Pain Quotidien beckoning, we decided to stop in for a bite.

After weeks of navigating a gluten-free diet while traveling through Europe, it was refreshing to find such a wide array of options at this café. Whether croissants, muffins, or tarts, everything looked scrumptious.

We each selected a treat to enjoy with our coffee, from the lemon poppy seed muffin to a fruit-filled Danish. Even our friend who doesn’t typically follow a gluten-free diet was impressed, unable to distinguish them from regular pastries. High praise indeed!

Light, flaky and bursting with flavor – I was blown away by the quality. You’d never guess these were specially made without gluten. That’s when we knew we had to take a few extra snacks for the road.

It’s evident Le Pain Quotidien takes dietary restrictions seriously while maintaining incredible taste. We would have loved to return throughout our stay to sample more selections. Highly recommended for gluten-free or not!

8. CHEZ PEN

When planning our trip to Annecy, our hotel owner highly recommended dining at Chez Pen. Described as a local gem away from the tourist centers, our curiosity was piqued.

From the moment we arrived, it was clear why this place was so popular among locals. The rustic dining room buzzed with happy customers, and we soon spotted the larger-than-life personality behind it all – Mr. Pen.

My wife and I perused the evening’s specials, written on a chalkboard in Monsieur Pen’s handwriting. I settled on a juicy steak, perfectly grilled, while she enjoyed tender veal in a rich cream sauce. Both were melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

Even after such hearty plates, we couldn’t resist dessert. The hotel wasn’t exaggerating – these were truly decadent. No willpower is required!

As we chatted with Monsieur Pen at the end of the meal, he graciously offered us a taste from his special bottle. You’ll have to visit Chez Pen yourself to find out more; I won’t spoil the surprise.

With its lively atmosphere, incredible local flavors, and the charm of Mr. Pen, Chez Pen definitely deserves its devoted following away from the tourist path. We’re grateful for the recommendation!

9. La Brasserie

Seeking a relaxed dinner during our stay in Annecy, my husband and I were thrilled to find Restaurant le Grill right on the shores of the lake. Even better, they accommodated outdoor dining – a welcome treat, given the lovely summer weather.

Many restaurants in the area enforce indoor seating at the slightest threat of rain, but not this place. We really appreciated being able to enjoy the views over Lake Annecy from their scenic patio.

Once seated, the friendly staff took our order with professionalism and care. We started with tender foie gras, a delectable tuna tataki, and crispy duck confit – all of which impressed at this reasonable price point.

But the star of the meal was a generous cut of beef, cooked to perfection. Its melt-in-your-mouth quality easily rivaled the pricier steaks we’d sampled nearby. Clearly quality over quantity here.

Charmed by the scenic setting, welcoming service, and quality dishes, Restaurant le Grill proved the perfect lakeside dinner spot. We left well satisfied with the dining experience and the value it offered. No doubt we’ll return again on our next visit!

10. Aux Crêperies Bretonnes La Bolée

While planning our day in Nice, I noticed Brasserie L’Escale was supposedly closed on the evening my wife and I wanted dinner. However, thanks to a flaw on their website, we decided to pop in and check anyway.

To our surprise, the bustling brasserie was very much open! Welcoming us cheerily, our server bustled over with menus right away. From that moment, the attentive service was top-notch. Within seconds of requesting water, full glasses had arrived – perfect for quenching our thirsts on a warm summer night.

We enjoyed brasserie classics like confit de canard and steak frites, perfectly prepared. The abundant selection of wines added to the enjoyment.

What stood out most, however, was the staff’s professionalism even after the posted closing – they kept up the quick service right until we finished our after-dinner coffees, well beyond official hours.

While the website timelines may need updating, the friendly team at L’Escale clearly takes customer satisfaction seriously. We left very impressed by their hospitality and would happily return our next visit to Nice.

11. Le Ramoneur Savoyard

While many Annecy restaurants serve reliable local classics, La Cuisine des Amis enticed me with its adventurous approach. On repeated visits to the alpine town, I found myself drawn back here for something unexpected.

Their compelling menu highlighted unique preparations using traditional ingredients in new ways. One dish in particular stood out – Boudin au deux pommes, or black pudding paired with roasted apples and potatoes.

The medley of flavors and textures was truly unlike anything else I’d tasted in the region. Each bite brought new layers of depth and discovery.

What I appreciated most was La Cuisine des Amis’ willingness to push boundaries without losing touch of their terroir roots. It resulted in an experience far more creative than the average restaurant.

While not for those solely seeking comforting cuisine, adventurous eaters will find Amis’ dishes revelatory. I left satisfied yet eager to return and unravel their next innovative creation. For something truly different in Annecy, look no further.