Happened upon this restaurant in the small quiet town of Marcillac Lanville in France. From the word go we were made to feel very welcome, the chef was a complete character, jovial and attentive without being in your face. It's a set lunch, no choice of menu but every course was absolutely delicious. We started with soup, choice of two, which came out in big bowls with ladles, as much as you could eat! Lovely fresh bread and a jug of wine. Second course was an unusual pot of veg with a creamy dressing, again absolutely deli! Mail course was paella in an enormous pan that you could have as much as you liked of! This was followed by bread and cheese, choice of dessert and a coffee to finish of...
We have just visited this establishment for the second time, and it was just as good as the first. We were part of a 21 strong group and were greeted on arrival at the door by the chef with a hand shake for everyone! The food is good, the wine is good, and the service is good. What more do you need? We were a large party so ate inside. When the weather is better there is a nice outside garden area to eat in. We were served a cocktail and nice pastry nibbles to start, followed by soup (choice of two) then gesiers salad, followed by main (large piece of pork with potato wrapped in foil as it had been cooked with cheese, and vegetables) cheese next, 3 nice sized pieces (you don't want big bits...
If you pass in this pretty little Charantian village, then stop at the nympheas. Surprising everyone here says hello when they come in. here, no map, no menu, you'll eat what's been planned this day. and for 13 euros you will have: a soup, an entrance, a piece of rumsteak with homemade fries, a plate of cheese and a dessert also home. I forgot the quarter of wine. a family case without pretention or the atmosphere is also family. Here we have the sense of hospitality. Bravo!
Buh bye.... Won't miss this place. Went out of their way to alienate patrons.
Tons of restaurants out there that appreciate and respect their customers.
Book a table now
Cafe 8 1/2's last day was on June 23, 2017, and our group was fortunate enough to be the last group to dine during the lunch-rush.
They re-opened as Soffritto on Fort Street Mall near Subway at the old Yum Yum Thai location:)
