L'Auberge de l'Eridan

L'Auberge de l'Eridan is a renowned two-Michelin-starred restaurant located in Veyrier-du-Lac on the shores of Lake Annecy in the French Alps. Founded in 1974 by chef Marc Veyrat, the establishment has become a landmark of Haute-Savoie gastronomy, celebrated for its innovative cuisine deeply rooted in the regional terroir. Under the leadership of chef Philippe Guignet since 2009, it continues to uphold a legacy of culinary excellence, combining modern techniques with foraged ingredients from the surrounding mountains and lakes.

History

The restaurant was established in 1974 by the pioneering chef Marc Veyrat, who transformed a simple lakeside inn into a temple of avant-garde cuisine. Veyrat's groundbreaking work, emphasizing wild herbs and plants from the Alps, earned the establishment its first Michelin star in 1985 and a second in 1990, cementing its reputation on the international stage. Following Veyrat's departure to focus on his other ventures, including the legendary Restaurant Marc Veyrat in Manigod, the property underwent several transitions. In 2009, chef Philippe Guignet, a protégé who had trained under masters like Bernard Loiseau at La Côte d'Or and Michel Guérard at Les Prés d'Eugénie, took over the helm, successfully maintaining its prestigious two-star status and evolving its culinary philosophy.

Cuisine and recognition

The cuisine is defined by its profound connection to the Savoie region, showcasing ingredients foraged from the shores of Lake Annecy, the forests of the Aravis Range, and the pastures of the Bornes Massif. Signature dishes often feature local treasures such as omble chevalier, reblochon cheese, and an extensive array of wild herbs, flowers, and mushrooms. This commitment to terroir has been consistently rewarded by the Michelin Guide, which has awarded the restaurant two stars for decades, a distinction also noted by other influential guides like the Gault & Millau. The wine cellar, curated by Philippe Guignet and his team, offers an extensive selection focusing on the wines of Savoie, Burgundy, and the Rhône Valley.

Location and setting

The restaurant is situated in the picturesque commune of Veyrier-du-Lac, directly on the western bank of Lake Annecy in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. This location in the heart of the French Alps provides a stunning backdrop of the lake and the towering Dents de Lanfon and Tournette mountain peaks. The area is part of the larger Annecy basin, known for its pristine waters and vibrant tourism, placing the auberge within easy reach of major regional attractions like the Château de Menthon-Saint-Bernard and the historic old town of Annecy. The serene lakeside setting is integral to the dining experience, with many tables offering panoramic views.

The chefs

The culinary legacy was founded by Marc Veyrat, a legendary figure in French gastronomy known for his "Cuisine des Alpes" and for being the first chef to receive a perfect score of 20/20 from the Gault & Millau guide. His innovative use of wild plants and radical techniques left an indelible mark. His successor, Philippe Guignet, brought his own distinguished pedigree, having honed his skills in the kitchens of iconic French chefs. Before his tenure, Guignet worked extensively with Bernard Loiseau in Saulieu and with Michel Guérard in Eugénie-les-Bains, experiences that shaped his precise and respectful approach to ingredients. Under his direction, the restaurant's cuisine balances tradition with contemporary refinement.

The property

The establishment is housed in a traditional Savoyard-style building that evokes the charm of a mountain chalet, featuring wood and stone architecture typical of the Haute-Savoie department. The interior dining rooms are elegantly appointed, often incorporating natural materials and offering views of the lake and gardens. The property includes a tranquil terrace for al fresco dining during warmer months, allowing guests to dine amidst the sounds and sights of Lake Annecy. The surrounding grounds are carefully maintained, often featuring herb and vegetable gardens that supply the kitchen, reinforcing the direct farm-to-table connection championed by both Marc Veyrat and Philippe Guignet.

Category:Restaurants in France Category:Michelin-starred restaurants Category:Buildings and structures in Haute-Savoie