Contemplate
Published on
Go out
The Most Rustic – La Calèche
La Calèche's remarkable story begins in 1946 with its founder, Pépé Luc. His son, Jeannot the Snow Acrobat, was spotted by none other than Walt Disney (yes, really). And if there were a mountain-themed restaurant at Disney, it would be La Calèche. It's got it all: the old-fashioned stove that hasn't aged a bit, the antique brass cooking utensils, the century-old wooden skis, and a bobsleigh from the 1924 Olympics. The walls are decorated with posters and old photos of the mountain guides' company; you can hardly see the wallpaper anymore. It is a true delight, right down to the fondue pot.
3 star meal - Malabar Princess
In the heart of Chamonix, Malabar Princess serves fondue with extra panache. Here, cheese reigns supreme and Savoyard tradition is elevated to haute couture. Voted best fondue in the highly sought-after Toquicimes competition, the homemade Fondue Savoyarde bears a signature that makes connoisseurs' mouths water: that of three-Michelin-starred chef Emmanuel Renaut.
The result? A fondue in the town centre, yes — but with the DNA of a mountain peak.
Ideal for those who love their fondue... with stars.
The most neoclassical – Le Café Comptoir
A picture-postcard setting, but with a contemporary take on a mountain chalet. Sleek design and cosy atmosphere. Le Café Comptoir mixes styles, and we love it. At lunchtime, it's all about speed, leaving the slope that connects the Col de Balme to Vallorcine to grab a seat on the terrace with faux animal fur. In the evening, dine for two by candlelight: restyled Italian classics and showtime fondue – flambéed with Armagnac. Later, at Le Café Comptoir, the evening might slip into a DJ set, undoubtedly featuring deer heads…
The most unusual – Le Frometon
Le Frometon is the most famous hideout in Chamonix. Head to the lobby of the Heliopic Hotel & Spa. Look for the fake cold room door. You're in the ripening cellar of Pierre Gay - MOF (a symbol of excellence), where around fifty exceptional wheels are aging peacefully. It's tempting, but don't give in! Not yet... One more step, go through the smashed-up brick wall. Legend tells a dark story of a hold-up by gangsters, crazy about cheese... You're there: the old-school dairy is a clandestine restaurant that’s home to three fondues with blends to die for, all carefully combined by Pierre Gay.
Do you already know these places?
The next part of the cheese tour is here!
