The story
Pastis Restaurant in Montpellier is the result of a friendship forged in the Aubrac mountains. Daniel Lutrand and Jean-Philippe Vivant met while working at Michel Bras's legendary establishment, a place where the pursuit of quality became second nature. Lutrand, in the kitchen, further sharpened his skills at L'Astrance in Paris and La Maison de la Lozère in Montpellier. Vivant, in the dining room, gained experience in New York, New Zealand, and with Mathieu de Lauzun in Gignac. Together, they opened Pastis in the city's pretty, slightly artistic neighbourhood near Sainte-Anne, offering a terrace and a dining room that reflect their shared vision.
At Pastis, everything begins with the product. "Choosing the 'right product' is the first step in expertise," the owners explain. They work directly with producers, market gardeners, and winemakers – the fish caught at night, the fruit chosen for its flavour. No intermediaries, only partnerships with those who understand quality. The menu is never fixed in advance. Daniel is guided solely by the market and his inspiration, offering only "discovery formulas" – surprise menus that change with what's fresh. This commitment to ingredient-driven Modern Cuisine earned Pastis a Michelin star, recognising the high quality of its cooking.
Lunch menus offer a choice of two or four courses, while the evening menu presents variations on several dishes. The wine list is a particular focus: Jean-Philippe, passionate about food and wine pairings, guides guests toward a Coteaux du Languedoc, a Gigondas, or a wine from a passionate vintner. The atmosphere is welcoming, the service informed. For those with reduced mobility, the open kitchen is accessible – a detail that speaks to the restaurant's thoughtful approach. Pastis is a place where Modern Cuisine meets genuine hospitality, and where every plate reflects a direct line from producer to table.
Recognition
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Details
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