The story
At Restaurant Les Chênes in Augerolles, near Courpière, the Fafournoux family has turned a passion for Auvergne’s bounty into a destination for semi-gastronomic dining. The restaurant holds a Michelin Recommended distinction, a nod to its consistent quality and deep respect for local ingredients.
The kitchen is led by two generations. Chef Léo Fafournoux trained at the three-Michelin-star Maisons Marcon in Saint-Bonnet-le-Froid, then refined his craft at the one-star Granite in Paris under chef Tom Meyer. His father, Jean-François Fafournoux, brings decades of experience, having evolved the family’s cooking from classical roots toward lighter, more contemporary interpretations. Together, they create a cuisine that is inventive, generous, and firmly anchored in the seasons.
Les Chênes works closely with local producers to source meats, herbs, and vegetables from the Livradois-Forez region. The menu changes with the seasons, highlighting the purity of Auvergne ingredients. Expect dishes that balance finesse with rustic generosity — a style that reflects both Léo’s haute-cuisine training and the family’s deep connection to the land.
The restaurant is a proud member of Les Toques d’Auvergne, an association that champions regional gastronomy. This affiliation underscores the kitchen’s commitment to showcasing the best of Auvergne cuisine, from fine country meats to the aromatic herbs that define the local landscape.
Set in a green oasis, Les Chênes offers dining in a warm, refined interior or on a terrace surrounded by nature. The property also hosts private events — weddings, baptisms, anniversaries, and corporate seminars — making it a versatile venue for special occasions. Whether you are a regular or a first-time visitor, the welcome is genuine, the atmosphere relaxed, and the cooking honest.
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