The story
At En/Vie in Clermont-Ferrand, Audrey Gaillet and Simon Pénin run a neighborhood bistro that balances playful cooking with a serious focus on sparkling wines. They deserted their chalk-rich soils in Champagne to settle on the volcanic land of the Auvergne region. Their partnership recently earned a spot on the 2026 Le Fooding list, recognizing how they pair cheeky dishes with refined beverage curation. Simon steers the pass while Audrey curates the cellar, creating a balanced rhythm between the kitchen and the dining room.
The lunch menu features smoked Le Sancy trout served with toasted almonds, garden tomatoes, and an oregano pesto made from herbs grown near local vineyards. Dinner shifts to an à la carte format where salt-baked beetroot appears alongside pickled vegetables and cold-smoked fish. Main courses highlight Charolais chuck steak finished with Sichuan pepper or Le Sancy Arctic char paired with subtle vanilla notes. A classic lemon pudding rests on a Breton shortbread base and finishes the meal with fresh raspberries.
The dining space features blonde hardwood floors, crisp white walls, and vintage chairs set against white tablecloths. An open kitchen layout lets guests watch Simon work through the evening service. Audrey regularly pops bottles of champagne and natural sparkling wines to match the day’s blackboard selections. The relaxed environment suits the casual bistro format, encouraging long lunches and unhurried dinners without sacrificing attention to detail.
Recognition
Location
