LE TROQUET

“Le Troquet” is a soulful restaurant and bar located in the heart of the historic center of Périgueux. The establishment is a classic French bistro with a warm, homey atmosphere where the traditions of the Périgord region come to life in every detail. Situated on the charming Place de la Vertu, the restaurant attracts tourists and locals alike with its hospitality and consistently high-quality dishes.

Le Troquet. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

This gastronomic gem, which France has gifted to travelers, is famous for using the freshest local products from small farmsteads. Le Troquet is rightfully ranked among the best establishments in the city according to global ratings and has been honored with the Travelers' Choice 2024 award. Here, you will find more than just food; it is a true culinary journey through the Dordogne, accompanied by exquisite wines from independent producers.

The interior harmoniously combines a cozy dining room and tables under ancient arcades, lending a special charm to the meal. Whether for a leisurely lunch or an atmospheric evening dinner, Le Troquet invites guests to immerse themselves in the authentic lifestyle of Southwest France, where the focus is on generous portions, flavor, and sincere emotions.

For your convenience and trip planning, we have gathered up-to-date contact information for the establishment. Contacting the staff directly will help you book a table for the evening or check the availability of terrace seating, which is especially important during the tourist season.

Below are the main contact methods and the exact address of this cozy spot in the historical part of the city.

At Le Troquet, the main activity is a gastronomic exploration of the Périgord region. Be sure to try the famous duck breast or the delicate foie gras, which are prepared here using traditional recipes. The desserts deserve special attention, particularly the legendary brioche perdue — the perfect conclusion to any meal.

For those who want to get the most out of their experience for a reasonable price, the fixed "starter-main-dessert" menu is an excellent choice. In addition to the food, it's worth exploring the wine list: it features unique selections from small French producers that are hard to find in regular shops. On weekends, the atmosphere becomes even more vibrant thanks to musical accompaniment and the opportunity to spend a late evening with friends in the bar area.

If the weather permits, try to snag a table on the terrace under the lime trees. This allows you to enjoy your meal while watching the steady life of the square without the noise of traffic. The establishment is great for both romantic dates and family lunches — high chairs are available, and the friendly staff is always ready to help with dish selections. Don't forget to check the "daily specials" on the chalkboards, where the chef presents the freshest finds of the current season.

Le Troquet is ideally located in the heart of the historic center of Périgueux at 4 Rue Notre Dame. This location is perfect for those who prefer strolling through ancient European streets. If you start your route from the majestic Saint-Front Cathedral, the walk to the restaurant will take no more than 5–10 minutes at a leisurely pace.

For easy navigation, you can use the map provided by the local Tourist Office (Office de Tourisme). The restaurant is situated right opposite the seventh point on the city's popular circular sightseeing route. Its proximity to Place de la Vertu makes it an easily recognizable landmark amidst the labyrinth of medieval roads.

If you are coming from further away, you can use buses heading to the city's central stops. Taxis can also easily drop you off as close as possible to the pedestrian zone. Keep in mind that the city center is primarily pedestrian-only, so it is best to look for parking for private cars in nearby municipal lots and enjoy the quiet atmosphere of the old town for the rest of the way.

Although Le Troquet is a modern gastronomic project, it is steeped in the spirit of history due to its location. The establishment is set under the ancient arcades of buildings in an area where every stone remembers the times of Roman rule and medieval prosperity. This harmonious blend of contemporary cuisine and centuries-old architectural heritage creates a unique charm characteristic of the Dordogne region.

The name Troquet itself is rooted in 19th-century French culture. Traditionally, it referred to small, cozy bistros and bars that served as social hubs for locals. Originally, these places only served drinks, but over time they evolved into full-fledged restaurants while maintaining their primary feature — a relaxed and friendly atmosphere where every guest feels at home.

The modern history of the place is closely linked to the energetic Alicia Noailhac and her team. Their motto “Le troquet au taquet!” reflects a dynamic approach to work and a commitment to the highest quality of service. The restaurant has become an essential part of the city's culinary map, continuing the traditions of Périgord — a region famous for centuries for its exceptional products, such as duck and foie gras.

While the exact date the building was constructed is lost in time, the restaurant's presence in this historic quarter makes it a living continuation of the city's chronicles. By visiting this place, you aren't just ordering lunch; you are becoming part of a centuries-old tradition of French hospitality in one of the most beautiful corners of the country.

To fully enjoy the atmosphere and cuisine of Le Troquet, a typical visitor will need between 1.5 and 2.5 hours. This is enough time to slowly appreciate the chef's skill, sample dishes from the regional menu, and enjoy a glass of wine in a cozy setting.

If you plan a visit in the evening, when there is often music and a more lively atmosphere, it is worth setting aside about 3 hours. A French meal is a special ritual involving several courses and pleasant conversation, so rushing is not the norm here. However, if your goal is a quick but high-quality mid-day lunch, you can manage in about an hour by choosing from the daily specials.

Le Troquet's operating schedule follows traditional French lunch and dinner hours. Monday and Sunday are closed. From Tuesday to Thursday, the restaurant is open from 12:00 to 13:45 and from 19:00 to 21:30. On Friday, lunch hours are slightly extended until 14:30, and Saturday evenings allow you to enjoy the atmosphere a bit longer, with dinner lasting until 21:45.

Since working hours may change depending on the season or holidays, it is recommended to check information on the official website or by phone before visiting, especially if you are planning an evening visit.

The establishment's location in the historical heart of the city allows you to combine gastronomic pleasure with a visit to unique architectural monuments. Just a few steps away, you will find medieval towers, Roman ruins, and grand mansions that make a walk in the surrounding area rich and educational.

Exploring nearby sites will help you dive deeper into the atmosphere of the ancient city and appreciate its rich heritage. Below is a list of interesting places within walking distance after a pleasant lunch at Le Troquet.