Breton specialities to tantalize the taste buds
If there’s one thing everyone agrees on, it’s that Brittany is a land of gastronomy (and gourmands).
Kouign-Amann, Breton cider and kir, mussels, oysters, langoustines and, of course, crêpes and galettes – these are just some of the specialities that make Brittany such a culinary treasure trove.
Find out more about Breton crepes!
The dish most representative of Brittany is undoubtedly the crêpe (or galette), which even has its own celebration, on February 02 with the chandeleur. Even if crêpes weren’t invented in Brittany, it’s the pancake that has made them popular and a must-have not only in Brittany, but also in many French families.
It’s mainly the filling of the crêpe that makes it a real meal that sets Brittany apart. Crepes are now to be found everywhere, in markets, stores, restaurants, festivals and, of course, the famous crêperies.
Let’s start by taking stock of the vocabulary to be used, because beware of language: crêpe and galette are not always the same thing! In fact, in southern Brittany, you’ll ask for a crêpe whether it’s sweet (made from wheat) or savoury (made from buckwheat). In northern Brittany, on the other hand, a savory crepe is called a galette.
Then, to make them, you’ll need a bilig (or, more commonly, a crêpière), the cast-iron griddle on which the crêpes are made. The rozell, a T-shaped scraper, is used to smooth the batter on the bilig, and the spanell (wood or metal) to turn it over.
Let’s take a look at the best crêperies in South Finistère!
Crêperie Saint-Maurice in Clohars-Carnoët
We couldn’t talk about crêpes without mentioning the incredible crêperie Saint-Maurice, just a few kilometers from the Kergariou campsite in Clohars-Carnoët. It’s both a gustatory discovery and a marvel on the banks of the Laïta river. An authentic, relaxing atmosphere where everyone loves to come for a meal or simply a gourmet break.
Practical information
- Address: 79 route de Lorient, Lieu-dit Saint-Maurice, 29360 CLOHARS-CARNOËT
- Telephone: 02 98 71 50 67
- Off season, open Thursday to Monday, 12:00 to 13:30 and 19:00 to 20:30
- In July and August, open daily from 12:00 to 21:00 (closed Tuesday afternoon).
- Reservations required
- Average price: €20 – €30 / person
- Just 6km from the campsite, it’s the perfect place for a bike ride!
The little extra!
It’s a great opportunity to discover and visit the Saint-Maurice Abbey site.
This former abbey opens its doors to those curious about its heritage. The forest also offers long hours of strolling between the gentle song of the birds and the sound of the river. In summer, it’s also the stage for a wide variety of shows.
Crêperie du Vieux Quimper
Established in 1956 in Quimper’s historic city center, the crêperie du Vieux Quimper has become an institution for Breton gastronomy. The fireplace, visible in the dining room, bears witness to the past, when crêpes used to be cooked. Techniques have changed, but the soul and history of this traditional crêperie will transport you back to Quimper’s liveliest years.
Practical information
- Address: 20 rue Verdelet, 29000 QUIMPER
- Telephone: 02 98 95 31 34
- Open Tuesday to Saturday from 11:45 a.m. and 6:45 p.m.
- Reservations recommended
- Average price: €20 – €30 / person
- At 50km from the campsite, the easiest way to get there is by car or train, for more adventure.
The little extra!
Quimper is a historic town in southern Brittany, rich in heritage, architecture and gastronomy.
Historic Quimper, crossed by the Odet river, is charming with its many flower-bedecked bridges along the river.
Quimper’s Musée de la Faïence is a fascinating place to discover the city’s impact on the art of earthenware around the world, with its famous Henriot earthenware factory.
The Cathédrale Saint-Corentin is also a must-see for its grandeur and beauty.
For those curious about Breton heritage, Quimper is also home to the emblematic Musée Départemental Breton.
Crêperie Le Temps Passé in Locronan
In the heart of Locronan, a town full of character, this crêperie offers the historic decor of Breton thatched cottages.
In a quiet alleyway away from the hustle and bustle, you’ll feel right at home, with the sweet smell of freshly turned crêpes. The old stones, the bolées, the frames on the wall, everything is designed to take you on an adventure to discover Brittany’s past.
Practical information
- Address: 4 rue du Four, 29180 LOCRONAN
- Telephone: 02 98 91 87 29
- Open Tuesday to Sunday
- No reservations in July and August, so beware of the wait!
- Average price: €10 – €20 / person
- Just 50km from the campsite, take the time to discover this charming town by car.
The little extra!
This is undoubtedly one of Brittany’s most emblematic character towns. Head for Locronan, where connoisseurs will recognize the setting for such great films as “Les Chouans” and “Un long dimanche de fiançailles”.
Listed as a historic monument in 1924, Locronan is a real step back in time, with its cobblestone streets, stone buildings and peaceful surroundings.
A must-see is the Celtic Bookshop, which is full of surprises.
Crêperie Lannig in Douarnenez
Its open kitchen beckons you with its delicious smells, a blend of gourmet delights and authenticity.
This crêperie is not about quantity, it’s about quality.
A few pieces of cutlery, stone walls, the smell of cooking – that’s all it takes to make this place a must-see.
A warm, relaxed atmosphere awaits you as you enjoy a meal with friends or family.
Practical information
- Address: 17 rue Anatole France, 29100 DOUARNENEZ
- Telephone: 02 98 92 25 32
- Open Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday for lunch and dinner
- Reservations recommended
- Average price: €10 – €20 / person
- At 60km from the campsite, the car will be much simpler.
More about Douarnenez
Douarnenez is the key destination for discovering the history of sardines and canning in Brittany, as well as many other of Brittany’s riches. You’ll discover typical landscapes such as the port of Rosmeur, the Pointe de la Jument or simply the panorama of the Bay of Douarnenez.
On foot, with inland hiking trails or the famous GR34 along the coast, you’re sure to fall under the spell of this part of Finistère.
Crêperie Quartier d’Été in La Forêt-Fouesnant
Here you won’t necessarily find the Breton atmosphere of yesteryear, but above all a breathtaking view of the coastline.
In this crêperie you’ll find a modern atmosphere, but with refined, gourmet cuisine.
A warm welcome awaits you for a pleasant moment, overlooking the bay of La Forêt-Fouesnant.
And when the weather’s fine, you can of course enjoy the superb sunny terrace.
Practical information
- Address: 42 rue du Vieux Port, 29940 LA FORÊT-FOUESNANT
- Telephone: 02 98 56 82 40
- Open Tuesday to Sunday from June to September, and Wednesday to Sunday in April and May, from 12:00 to 13:30 and from 19:00 to 21:00.
- Reservations recommended
- Average price: €20 – €30 / person
- 40km from the campsite, your car will allow you to discover the coast.
Discover La Forêt-Fouesnant!
Between Bénodet and Concarneau, La Forêt-Fouesnant is a seaside resort that lives at nature’s pace.
The charm of this commune lies in its vast forest, where fauna, flora, ocean, locals and tourists live in harmony.
Hiking trails beckon you to discover the marvellous wild coastline, the old port, the granite church and the fine sandy beaches.