La-Ferté-sous-Jouarre: L'Auberge de Condé

At its best, summer is all about spontaneity, so L'Auberge de Condé is a new address to bear in mind for an excursion, if you're in Paris and suddenly need greenery, fresh air and a good meal without the expense of renting a car. On the Marne River about halfway between Paris and Reims, and easily reachable by train—only a five-minute walk from the station—this completely renovated inn is a longtime favorite of renowned French food critic Christian Millau (of Gault & Millau). Chef Frédéric Laloyaux, who trained with Joël Robuchon, does delicious dishes like white asparagus with lemon-marinated sardines and roast capon stuffed with ricotta, Parmesan and tomates confites.

1 ave de Montmirail, La-Ferté-sous-Jouarre, 01.60.24.50.05. €85 per person without wine

Originally published in the July/August issue of France Today

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