Au Bon Coin

Tucked away in Soi 9 off of Soi 5 or 6 off Prathumak it does not even look like a restaurant. There is no sign at either end of the Soi and neither is there one outside of the building, except for a    lectern with the menu on it that is hard to see in the dark. The main indication is a guard outside to help you park in the road. Word of mouth gives this gem its clientele and you will need to book to ensure getting a table, and smart casual dress is “de riguer” … preferably no shorts or vests. Lights are low and conversations are carried on quietly, giving a very intimate atmosphere

Obviously, by the name, the food is predominately French, mid priced, but excellent value and probably the best I have eaten in Pattaya. Jose, who acts as “Maitre D” will happily discuss the menu with you if you are uncertain of the French culinary terms. The menu is not large, but when everything on it is cooked to perfection, there is no cause for complaint.

We took our family there and, after a discussion with Jose, ordered a mixed starter for six, comprising mixed cold cuts, duck pate, crab salad and, my favourite, goats cheese spring rolls and at the same time we ordered our main courses, plus a carafe of red wine that was refilled a few times. Most of the starters came up on a tower, enabling everyone to reach the selections easily. Other starters include a very tasty smoked haddock with spinach and a really good gazpacho with all the trimmings.

But first we were given a “taster” to get us in the mood, plus warm baguettes, bread, and butter, ready for the starters.

There is no rush to finish, Joseph keeps a friendly eye on you to give you time to savour the food. Plates are cleared away promptly, but the staff are not intrusive. I personally hate places where the waiters hover over you all the time.

Having eaten here before, I recommended the five hour Lamb to the family and that was ordered as well as Boeuf Bourgignon and Rabbit grd mere.

The five hour Lamb is served up, at the table, from the pot it is cooked in, with beans and carrots and only needs a fork to cut it..real melt in the mouth food. For myself I went for the Boeuf  Bourguignon, that came in a very tasty rich sauce, along with mashed potato. I had also saved some bread and, quite unashamedly, mopped up the sauce off of the plate. The Rabbit came with a piquant sauce, loaded with mushrooms and save some bread to mop up the sauce even if you have mashed potato

The dessert menu is separate and just as tempting as the main menu.

This includes a cheese plate,  crème caramel, crème brulee, chocolate mousse and ice creams...they were lemon with Vodka, apple with Calvados and coconut with Malibu.

Coffee and tea are available, but to round off the meal you will be given a plate of Madelaines (that I adore) and Rum Babas to enjoy.

Everyone enjoyed their food and agreed that everything was excellent. This is definitely a place to put on your favourites list.

To contact Jose for a booking, telephone 038364542.