The story
Chartron has been a family affair for over three generations. It began in 1946 when Paulette Chartron and her brother René purchased an old inn in Saint-Donat-sur-l'Herbasse. Paulette and her mother Delphine ran the kitchen, serving local specialties like snails, game, ravioles, and asparagus – seasonal products from the Drôme region. In 1984, Bruno Chartron and his wife Véronique took over, reopening the restaurant in March of that year. Major renovations followed in 1989, transforming the space into a bright dining room with exposed stone and a large glass roof. After devastating floods in 2009, the couple rebuilt and modernised both the restaurant and the hotel, making the entire property wheelchair accessible.
The dining room opens onto a terrace with a few tables, perfect for summer evenings. The atmosphere is refined yet relaxed, matching the restaurant’s modern cuisine. The kitchen works with the seasons, and in winter, the focus shifts to the black truffle from the family’s own truffière – a “weekend discovery” experience. The restaurant is recognised by the Michelin Guide with a Recommended rating, reflecting its consistent quality and thoughtful cooking.
The menus change with the market. The “Au fil des saisons” menu (available Monday lunch, Thursday, Friday, and outside holidays) offers an entrée, main, and cheese or dessert for 49 €. The “Découverte” menu is an eight-course affair at 109 €, with a wine pairing option. For truffle lovers, three dedicated menus – “Truff’ express”, “Diamant-Noir”, and “Le Trésor du Chêne” – showcase the seasonal star. A smaller menu for younger guests is also available. The wine list is interesting, with pairings offered for most menus.
Chartron is a place where the past and present meet, where a family legacy continues to evolve through modern, locally rooted cuisine.
Recognition
Ambience
Details
Location
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