Raymond Blanc’s “first great food experience”
Le Poker d’As in Besançon
During a weekend visit to Besançon in the Franch Comte region of France we enjoyed dinner at Le Poker d’As restaurant. Raymond Blanc said this was where he enjoyed his first great food experience in Besançon at the age of 14. As a longtime admirer of Raymond Blanc, I just had to try it!
The dessert trolley Table for 2 with wonderful carved table Le Poker d’As, Besancon
Where did Raymond Blanc have dinner as a teenager?
I booked this restaurant, inspired by Raymond Blanc’s comments in an article in The Guardian that at the age of 14 having earned enough money by selling frogs, wild asparagus and mushrooms he was able to enjoy dinner at Poker d‘As. His first great food experience in Besançon and it was ours too!
Amuse Bouche Local wine Interior at Poker d’As, Besancon
The welcome was warm and friendly at Poker d’As and the interior décor was classic French with great carved wooden tables.

Dinner at Poker d’As
The atmosphere in the restaurant was calm and although the restaurant was full it was not crowded as the tables were well spaced, giving a feeling of intimacy for diners. This was a classic

The food was very tasty and well presented. The attention to detail was really good with the classic serving of dishes.
Cancoillotte Maison Delicious dessert of pink pomelo mousse, endive sorbet and a vanilla reduction Gourmandises with coffee
I loved the traditional way of serving – the cheeses arrived on a trolley and were all described clearly and served. The Cancoillotte maison was superb! Cancoillotte is a local speciality cheese of the region. It’s worth a visit to this classic
Read more about my wonderful weekend in Besançon here
Le Poker d’As
14 Square Saint-Amour,
25000 Besançon
Tel: 03 81 81 42 49
The restaurant is open from Tuesday – Saturday for lunch and dinner
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