Nestled in the heart of Cognac, France, Les Foudres at Hôtel Chais Monnet & Spa stands as a beacon of gastronomic excellence, proudly holding the distinction of being the town’s only Michelin-starred restaurant. Housed within a meticulously restored 19th-century cooperage, this fine-dining establishment transcends the ordinary, blending the region’s rich heritage with innovative cuisine. Awarded its first Michelin star in 2021, Les Foudres offers an unforgettable sensory journey, where the legacy of cognac production meets the artistry of modern French cooking, all under the guidance of talented chefs and a dedicated team.

The setting of Les Foudres is as remarkable as its menu. The restaurant occupies the former aging cellars of the Monnet cooperage, a site listed as part of France’s industrial heritage. Guests enter through the awe-inspiring Chai Cathédrale, a towering space nearly nine meters high, where century-old oak barrels—known as “foudres”—once held maturing cognac. These massive barrels remain a striking feature, lending an air of grandeur and authenticity to the dining experience. The transition from this cathedral-like expanse to the intimate, warmly lit dining rooms creates a balance of reverence and comfort, immersing visitors in Cognac’s storied past while inviting them to savor the present.

At the helm of Les Foudres is Head Chef Mathis Debize, whose culinary journey—from Michelin-starred kitchens in France to international ventures in Indonesia—infuses the menu with a blend of tradition and innovation. Alongside pastry chef Alexandre Mornet, Debize crafts seasonal dishes that celebrate the Charente region’s bounty. Signature offerings might include a delicate artichoke composition with Pineau des Charentes cream and miso sabayon, or a perfectly cooked local pigeon breast paired with earthy beetroot. Each plate is a testament to precision, with elegant presentations and concentrated sauces—like a caramelized celery jus—that elevate the natural flavors of premium ingredients. The dessert menu, featuring creations like Valrhona chocolate with sarrasin and praliné, adds a sweet crescendo to the meal.

The Michelin star, awarded just three years after the hotel’s opening in 2018, underscores the restaurant’s rapid rise to prominence. For Debize and his team, it’s a recognition of relentless dedication, especially amidst the challenges of the hospitality industry post-2020. The accolade also cements Cognac’s place on the global culinary map, a town long revered for its spirit but now gaining acclaim for its food. Les Foudres offers three tasting menus—priced at €75, €95, and €140—allowing diners to explore the depth of its cuisine, paired with an extensive wine list curated by an expert sommelier. The cellar boasts hundreds of references, from iconic labels like Petrus to hidden gems, ensuring a perfect match for every dish.

Beyond the food, Les Foudres excels in its ambiance and service. The staff, led by a charming and professional management team, delivers impeccable yet approachable hospitality—no stiff formality here, just genuine warmth. Tables are spaced generously, adorned with contemporary silverware and fine glassware, enhancing the refined yet relaxed atmosphere. This balance reflects the broader vision of Hôtel Chais Monnet & Spa, a five-star retreat that seamlessly integrates its industrial roots with modern luxury. The restaurant’s location within this historic complex, surrounded by a lush park, adds to its allure as a destination for both locals and travelers.

Les Foudres is more than a meal; it’s an experience that bridges Cognac’s past and future. The connection to the region’s cognac legacy is palpable—not just in the setting, but in subtle nods like the use of Pineau des Charentes in dishes, a local fortified wine tied to the area’s viticultural heritage. For visitors, it pairs effortlessly with a stay at the hotel, where spa treatments, a rooftop lounge, and cognac tastings round out the journey. Whether drawn by the Michelin star, the historic charm, or the promise of exceptional cuisine, diners leave Les Foudres with a deeper appreciation for Cognac’s multifaceted identity—a town where spirit and sustenance intertwine in extraordinary ways.