What should I order at La Vieille Porte?
La Vieille Porte
Steak Frites
Recommended multiple times for being outstanding and excellently cooked, with enjoyable sauces. It was noted as a highlight and one of the best dishes tried in the old town.
Mashed Potatoes
Described as 'out of this world amazing,' indicating exceptional preparation and taste.
Smoked Duck and Goats Cheese Salad
Mentioned as a loved dish combining flavors well, highly praised along with other appetizers.
Foie Gras
Noted as well cooked and splendid, a traditional French delicacy that received specific positive mention.
Beef (including 'pave' and other cuts)
Frequently praised for excellent cooking and flavor, including a 'splendid piece de boeuf' and 'steak pave,' considered some of the tastiest food experienced.
Goats Cheese Salad
Highlighted as delicious and a good choice, often paired with magret or other starters.
Desserts (including chocolate pudding and riz au lait)
Deserts were repeatedly described as extraordinary and a perfect end to meals, with specific mentions of gooey chocolate pudding and riz au lait.
Snails with Mushroom and Garlic Sauce
While the snails were described as earthy, the mushroom and garlic sauce was praised, making the dish noteworthy.
Hours
| Monday | Closed |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 12 to 1:45 PM, 7 to 10 PM |
| Wednesday | 12 to 1:45 PM, 7 to 10 PM |
| Thursday | 12 to 1:45 PM, 7 to 10 PM |
| Friday | 12 to 1:45 PM, 7 to 10:30 PM |
| Saturday | 12 to 1:45 PM, 7 to 10:30 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
About La Vieille Porte
Friendly restaurant serving bistro-style dishes like rillettes, foie gras, duck breast & tartare.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
- Great wine list
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Hard liquor
- Healthy options
- Late-night food
- Small plates
- Wine
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Historic
- Quiet
- Romantic
- Trendy
Crowd
- College students
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Lunch reservations recommended
- Reservations required
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- Meal coupons
- NFC mobile payments
- Pluxee
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Paid parking lot
- Paid street parking
Frequently asked questions
What is La Vieille Porte known for?
It is especially known for foie gras and other bistro-style French dishes, with reviewers also praising the mushroom puree and duck-focused plates. People repeatedly mention the authentic French cooking, generous portions, and friendly service as reasons it stands out in Le Mans.
What dishes are most recommended at La Vieille Porte?
Reviewers most often highlight foie gras de canard, duck breast, tartare, and the mushroom puree or mashed potatoes. Set menus also get strong praise, especially when paired with starters like tomato mozzarella or mains such as veal served on the bone.
What is the atmosphere like at La Vieille Porte?
The atmosphere is described as cozy, historic, quiet, and romantic, with a pleasant setting that still feels like a classic bistro. It suits couples, groups, and solo diners, and reviewers note that it can be busy but still feels friendly and efficient.
Is La Vieille Porte good value, and what is the price range?
Yes, reviewers repeatedly call it good value, and the listed price range is €20–30. A three-course meal has been called unbeatable at around €23.90, and diners mention leaving very satisfied even with wine and extras.
Do you need to book at La Vieille Porte?
Reservations are recommended for lunch and dinner, and several reviews say Friday evenings can be especially busy. Walk-ins are sometimes seated, but reviewers warn that arriving around 7 pm can be too late unless you are willing to come back later.
Is parking available at La Vieille Porte?
Yes. Paid parking lot, Paid street parking is available.
Is La Vieille Porte kid-friendly?
Yes, La Vieille Porte is good for kids.
Restaurants like La Vieille Porte in Le Mans
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