This post is part of my series on Versailles, France.
After your visit to the Château de Versailles, you will likely feel famished. Intense tourism calls for a satisfying meal in a relaxed setting. A brief stroll from the Château, the Brasserie du Théâtre Montansier serves homemade food made with fresh products. A family-owned business, father-son team Stéphane and Dorian Platrier offer a warm welcome, exquisite food, and fair prices.
The restaurant serves traditional brasserie fare in an Art Deco setting: steak, sauerkraut, salmon, and tripe. My friend Stéphane and I began our lunch with champagne—pourquoi pas? I ordered snails, followed by the plat du jour: pork tenderloin served over pureed root vegetables. The generous portions left me full, and the red wine left me a little sleepy, but I stretched this pleasant lunch with crème brûlée, followed by an espresso.
My meal was top-notch, as was Stéphane’s company. I also appreciated the clean beauty of the space: mirrored walls, leather benches, and white table linens. Our lunch was refined without being stuffy. The service was attentive and unrushed. The Brasserie du Théâtre Montansier is a bonne adresse that’s not to be missed!
Brasserie du Théâtre Montansier
15 rue des Réservoirs
78000 Versailles
Open Wednesday-Saturday for lunch and dinner
Open Sunday for lunch
Reserve online
Allison’s Tips
For quick access to the Brasserie du Théâtre Montansier, exit the Château property through the gate closest to the Royal Chapel, the tallest building on the property, in the northwest corner of the Royal Courtyard. Take the rue des Réservoirs to the restaurant, a leisurely 5-10 minute walk.
As you make your way to the restaurant, take a moment to notice number 7 rue des Réservoirs. This building is known as l’Hôtel Pompadour and as l’Hôtel des Réservoirs. Constructed in 1752, Louis XV’s mistress Madame de Pompadour (1721-1764) received guests here. After her death, the Pompadour’s casket was transported to the residence and displayed for two days. From 1856-1922, it served as a high-end hotel and restaurant. It currently houses government offices.
As you approach the brasserie, you’ll pass the Théâtre Montansier at number 13. King Louis XVI and Queen Marie Antoinnette were present at its inauguration in 1777.
Inspirations
Versailles : côté ville, côté jardins, Alexandre Maral
Now I am hungry!