Au Hugo

So there we were in the centre of Limoges with just 60 minutes for lunch before we had to re-join our coach. Heading off in the direction taken by the rest of our group we pondered the timing, hoping we could find a suitable eatery that would combine quality with speed. Glancing down Boulevard Victor Hugo we spotted a small establishment with 2 or 3 tables on the pavement. We made a quick left turn and arrived at the charming bar & brassiere Le Hugo. With our French speaking interpreter in in the lead we quickly ascertained that food was on offer as was a very warm welcome. Within a few minutes we were comfortably seated and supplied with a rather splendid local wine. Our host – sadly I did not get the ladies name but she appeared to be the owner of the establishment – was attentive and quick to serve. For a starter we had some delicious ham, pork pate and fresh bread. This was only the start of our gastronomic delight, 15 minutes or so later we were served with 4 meals, 2 each of beautifully prepared and cooked duck with pasta and beef with fried egg and pasta. For the week we spent in France pretty much all the food was excellent but I freely admit this quick lunchtime stop delivered the very best we were to eat. As we made to leave our hostess pulled out 4 glasses of champagne and made a toast, to what we weren’t quite sure due to the language differences! It was a splendid and unexpected experience matched with excellent food and the hospitality with which we were received rather made our day. Finally for those that are concerned with such things I should add that the meal for 4 – starters, main, bottle of wine and 2 beers – was great value coming in at a touch under E80 (that’s 80 Euros, but I don’t have the symbol on my keyboard). Thoroughly recommended, if you are in Limoges go Le Hugo