Foie gras from the Landes, the fattened duck or goose liver, is served as a slice of terrine with toast and a Sauternes pairing, the canonical southwestern French aperitif and starter.
Where to eat it: 2 restaurants across 1 city.
Foie gras production in southwestern France dates back to the 18th century, with the Landes department becoming the major producer in the 19th century. The IGP Foie Gras du Sud-Ouest covers production from the Aquitaine and Midi-Pyrenees regions. Most Bordeaux fine-dining rooms make their own terrine; La Tupina and Le Mably are among the local benchmarks.
Common allergens: None
Tip from the editors. Cook at low temperature to avoid melting the fat; an instant-read thermometer is non-negotiable.
La Tupina in Bordeaux's Saint-Pierre district is the southwestern French institution founded by Jean-Pierre Xiradakis in 1968, now led by chef Franck Audu.
Signature: Entrecote a la bordelaise, Tricandilles, Sanguette
Tip: Sit near the open fire for the tricandilles; the lunch formula is a serious value if you book ahead for noon on a weekday.
La Cape in Cenon, across the Garonne from Bordeaux's Bastide, is Nicolas Magie's bistronomic dining room with classic French luxury cuisine and a terrace.
Signature: Foie gras, Pigeon, Souffle
Tip: Order the souffle course for dessert; the tasting menu prices climb but the lunch formula stays under €50.
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