Discover the Culinary Treasures of Hauts-de-France
France’s reputation for exceptional food is legendary. Thus, gourmet travelers have an exciting reason to explore the beautiful region of Hauts-de-France, awarded the European Region of Gastronomy for 2023.
This distinction highlights the remarkable producers, artisans, and chefs in the area. Expect an array of activities, including workshops, food tours, and lively festivals focused on cultural heritage, a circular economy, and hyper-local, farm-to-fork sustainability.
A Taste of History and Culture
Set above Paris like a crown, Hauts-de-France boasts splendid cities filled with Gothic architecture (including notable cities like Arras, Amiens, Laon, and Lille) surrounded by breathtaking wild landscapes and welcoming inhabitants. Despite its overlooked food scene, the recognition by the International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts, and Tourism provides a chance to introduce new audiences to its seasonal produce and culinary specialties.
The Bounty of Farms
The region’s agricultural heartland comprises orchards and fields (even marshland floating market gardens) yielding an abundance of apples, pears, leeks, carrots, cauliflowers, and the renowned “pearl of the north,” endives. Additionally, lush pastures produce rich cream (including the famed sugar-whipped Chantilly cream) and delectable cheeses such as Maroilles, Mimolette, and Chaud Biloute.
Furthermore, the waters teem with seafood along the stunning Côte d’Opale, framed by chalk cliffs and home to Boulogne-sur-Mer—the country’s most important fishing port, landing numerous species daily, alongside Baie de Somme, which boasts France’s largest saffron production.
Culinary Influences
Culinary influences in Hauts-de-France stretch beyond its borders, given its proximity to the English Channel and neighboring countries like Belgium, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and Germany. This geographical advantage contributes to unique offerings, from the renowned local beers (often used in dishes like Welsh, a melted cheese creation), to delightful sweets such as palets de dames, gaufres, and rich chocolates.
Dining Experience
Michelin-starred establishments, including La Table du Connetable in Chantilly, La Grenouillère in La Madelaine-sous-Montreuil, La Liégeoise on the Côte d’Opale, and Haut Bonheur de la Table in Cassel, craft exquisite and innovative dishes.
Moreover, traditional Flemish cafes, known as estaminets, serve hearty favorites like carbonnade, a savory stew made with braised beef, infused with brown sugar, gingerbread, and beer.
Explore Local Beverages
The origins of beer in Hauts-de-France date back to Celtic times. Visitors can discover award-winning breweries, such as Brasserie du Pays Flamand, Brasserie Castelain, and Brasserie Lilloise. This region also boasts Champagne vineyards extending into the southeast around Château-Thierry, contributing to 10% of French production.
Accommodation Options
Lille serves as an ideal base for exploring Hauts-de-France, offering fast train connections to Paris (50 minutes), Brussels (35 minutes), and London (90 minutes). The region’s diverse accommodations range from modern hostels to elegant design hotels and historic properties.
In conclusion, Hauts-de-France not only showcases an exceptional culinary landscape but also offers an enriching cultural experience, making it a compelling destination for food lovers and travelers alike.
