Surrounded on three sides by the sea, Brittany is a land of picturesque fishing villages, celebrated beaches and enchanting seaside resorts. Brittany is renowned for being the home of seafood cuisine and accounts for 80% of France’s shellfish industry. Coquilles St-Jacques (scallops) and moules frites (mussels with thin chips) are everywhere, but the best bet is a platter of fruits de mer which consists usually of crabs, langoustines, prawns, clams and oysters and is usually a sharing platter. In some small harbors you can even purchase fish straight off the fishing boat, these are known as fresh fish auctions and are great if you can find one.
Oysters are one of the most popular choices of seafood in Brittany and are widely farmed here. There are two types of oyster; the rock and the flat. The flat oysters of Brittany account for two thirds of France's entire production. They are usually served with salted butter and bread, and the best time to experience this delicacy is between September and April. They are found in abundance in the picturesque fishing town of Cancale.
Visit the lovely little town of Guilvinec where the quayside comes to life when fishermen return to port with their catch of monkfish, skate and – especially – langoustines. Some of the best seafood in the area is found here. Another one to try is Saint-Malo, in north-west Brittany. It is a beautiful walled harbor town on Brittany's Emerald Coast, with views overlooking some of France's most dramatic coastline. Known to many as a ferry port, Saint-Malo is also a great destination for seafood. The town has so much to offer and has some superb seafood restaurants, amongst which La Duchesse Anne is one of the best.
Experience the fantastic culture of Brittany for yourself and learn how you can stay in our charming manoir by following the link below.
