Time for la Rentrée

Meaning the re-entry or the return, la Rentrée marks a step change in French life, as summer transitions into Autumn. It’s a joyous celebration of everyday life that appreciates the changing colours and temperatures and serves as a super way to look forward to the coming months with positivity. Here and across the channel, we can enjoy the annual autumnal produce that ripens and harvests during September. La Rentrée is the French equivalent of hygge, a cosy tradition often celebrated with reunions between family and friends after a long summer apart. And Côte is the place to experience it.

The limited-edition Autumn Specials menu

Brand new for September 2022, Côte’s latest menu celebrates the changing of the seasons; from the hectic pace of summer to the calmer days of autumn. The freshest ingredients from around the British isles have been procured to craft a flavourful range of classic French dishes, sure to delight even the most discerning diners. Created by the new Executive Head Chef, Steve Allen, it encapsulates the spirit of France. 

Paying homage to the humble fig

An internationally grown ingredient, the fig plays an integral role in the first Autumn Specials starter option. The intense natural sweetness of this fruit is cleverly paired with Bayonne ham, a creamy yet tangy Roquefort dressing and beetroot.

Moules Normande takes centre stage 

The main event involves the classic French dish of moules, in a Normandy style as the season’s main course. But these are actually Scottish mussels from the Shetland Islands – and as they are rope-grown, they are the most sustainable form of the seafood (and have a low carbon footprint due to their short journey time to British towns and cities). The moules are served with sautéed leeks, tart British Granny Smith apples and an organic Normandy cider cream sauce. If you fancy trying this dish but don’t want a larger portion, you also have the option to order the moules as a starter.

Pork Tomahawk

Those ordering mussels to begin, or avoiding seafood will love this delicious dish made from meat sourced from Dingley Dell; a family farm found on the east coast of Suffolk. The Pork Tomahawk is served with an indulgent truffled potato purée, roasted garlic, crunchy French beans, and a smooth Calvados apple jus.

Something sweet to finish

The epilogue to this European meal is a delicious Almond Financier: a delectable baked French almond cake with blackberry compote, vanilla ice cream and salted caramel sauce. This can be paired with a special autumn beverage; an Orchard Sidecar, which pays tribute to the British apple, complemented by SASSY Calvados, Cointreau, and lemon juice.  

Eating midweek

Those dining at Côte midweek can take advantage of the superb value ‘Prix Fixe’ selection. This has been reinvented for the season, but contains many of  Côte’s classics including Steak Frites and Coq Au Vin. Two courses can be purchased for just £14.95, with three available from £18.95. It’s a great opportunity to eat lunch like the French, taking time to linger over this daytime meal with a glass of wine and some good conversation.

A Côte near you

The relaxed, stylish surroundings of Côte have been inspiring diners from around the country since 2007. Now, the brand boasts more than 80 venues across the UK, offering a delightful Francophile atmosphere with tasteful, chic decor. Over the years the menus have evolved to encompass the timeless French classics that have become stalwart Côte favourites, alongside innovative dishes that capture the Joie de vivre of contemporary French cuisine. Affordable yet luxurious, the brand promises to bring to the table the very best food possible – because in France they wouldn’t have it any other way. Additionally, many of the restaurants up and down the country have been refurbished, enhancing their elegance and cutting-edge design even further. 

Autumn Specials Include 

Starters Fig & Bayonne Ham Salad £8.25  Moules Normande £7.50	Main Course Pork Tomahawk (for two to share) £41.95  Moules Normande £14.95
Dessert Almond Financier £7.95	Drink Orchard Sidecar £8.95

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