It is nice surprise to find the Etoile d'Oc under new management. The young couple, who run the restaurant, have given this place a breath of much needed fresh air. With a cool music system, a wonderful terrace, and a relaxed, open room, and with some imaginative cooking they bring new energy. With a well priced lunch menu, and a 19.50 euros principal menu with traditional favourites, given an edge, this restaurant seemed worth a return visit.

However on a Fete I made a return visit and was shocked by the lack of appropriate service. After waiting in good humor for some time, we were duly served. The salad came with a surprise: an object that was not normally used in cooking was found, spoiling the enjoyment of the meal. What was the response? Just another salad. No appropriate apologies. Having finished the first course, the waitress took the unheard of steps of scraping food from the knife and fork and returning the same utensils to the table - rather than bringing out a clean knife and fork. And this for a special dinner at 40 euros a pop!

Obviously overworked with too many diners for one waitress - short cuts were made. However that is no excuse for poor judgement.

Restaurant L'Etoile d'Oc
Deparmentale 5
11120 Pouzols Minervois



LE-GUIDE ** 2 STAR