Saint-Pée-sur-Nivelle, France
From Michelin Guide
Close to Saint-Jean-de-Luz and the coast, this old Basque farmhouse has an elegant contemporary wing overlooking the Rhune (Larrun) mountain and the countryside. It is here, in the very heart of the Basque Country, that chef CĂ©dric BĂ©chade and Marion, his wife, welcome you in true 21C innkeeper style. This creative chef (who trained in Biarritz â at the HĂŽtel du Palais â then worked in the kitchens of the Plaza AthĂ©nĂ©e alongside Jean-François PiĂšge) uses top-notch ingredients, sourced from as close as possible to the Basque region and lovingly prepared with all the care they deserve. A case in point is the baby squid served with its ink, and the light, delicate dessert with yuzu from nearby Ahyerre. The terrace is very popular in fine weather, as are the guestrooms to extend your stay.
From Visitor Experiences
Signature Culinary Storytelling with Illustrated Dish Cards: Each dish at La Table de Cédric Béchade is presented with a small drawn card that depicts the dish and provides its description. Guests can take these cards home in a box, adding a unique, artistic, and memorable touch to the gastronomic experience.
Strict Local Sourcing Within a 200 km Radius: Since 2007, Chef Cédric Béchade has committed to sourcing the majority of ingredients from within a 200 km radius, emphasizing a conscientious, ecological approach that respects nature and regional tradition. This local sourcing is both creatively stimulating and ethically rewarding, deeply rooting the cuisine in the Basque region.
Setting in an Old Basque Farmhouse with a Contemporary Wing Overlooking the Rhune Mountain: The restaurant is housed in a historic Basque farmhouse that features an elegant contemporary wing, offering diners scenic views of the Rhune (Larrun) mountain and surrounding countryside, blending tradition with modernity in its ambiance.
From Visitor Experiences
The most honored or signature ingredients at the Michelin-starred restaurant La Table de Cédric Béchade - L'Auberge Basque in Saint-Pée-sur-Nivelle are:
Espelette Pepper: A key Basque ingredient, prominently featured in the signature dish piperade, which has been a hallmark of Chef Cédric Béchade since 2007. It adds a distinctive mild heat and smoky flavor that defines Basque cuisine.
Baby Squid and its Ink: Used in a celebrated dish where the squid is served with its ink, showcasing the chef's skill in elevating local seafood with delicate preparation and presentation.
Yuzu from Ahyerre: This citrus fruit is used in light, delicate desserts, adding a fresh, aromatic note that complements the regional flavors and reflects the chefâs creative use of local produce.
These ingredients are significant because they represent the essence of Basque culinary tradition, sourced locally and treated with care to highlight their natural flavors in innovative, refined dishes. Chef BĂ©chadeâs approach emphasizes respect for nature and the terroir, making these ingredients central to the restaurantâs identity and Michelin-starred cuisine.
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