There are lunches in Lavancher that are worth the trip alone. Ours can be summed up in one word: grillingEvery week during the season, the terrace of theHotel Jeu de Paume lights his barbecue and serves a Daily special "hiker's special" at €19 — a beautiful piece of meat grilled over embers, a side dish that changes according to what's available at the market, and the only decoration being the Mont Blanc massifsA simple, generous and bright lunch, to be enjoyed outdoors.
A barbecue over embers, facing the Mont Blanc massif
The concept is as clear as it is appetizing: meat grilled to order on the barbecue, that irresistible aroma of smoky coals, and a seasonal side dish prepared that very morning according to the chef's inspiration and the available ingredients. Nothing is set in stone, everything is fresh.
We sit down at a table on the terrace, in the peaceful hamlet of Lavancher, our gaze sweeping towards the Mont Blanc massif and the Aiguilles de Chamonix. No crowds or honking horns: just sunshine, the scent of larch trees, and the line of peaks. At €19, it's probably one of the most enchanting—and relaxing—lunchtimes in the entire valley.
The hiker's dish of the day, in short
- The dish : a barbecue grill + the side dish of the day, at 19 €
- When : of Friday to Sunday, at lunchtime, in season
- Or : on the terrace of La Table du Lavancher, 705 route du Chapeau, Le Lavancher, 74400 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
- For who Everyone — hotel guests and visitors alike — ideal after a hike
- Booking : recommended for +33 (0)4 50 54 03 76The terrace quickly fills up
- Bonus Free private parking, 10 minutes from the centre of Chamonix
The perfect lunch after a hike
This dish isn't called "hiker's special" by chance. Le Lavancher is an ideal base camp for two iconic routes in the valley, both starting just steps from the hotel:
- The rise of the Hat : a path that climbs from Lavancher to the Chapeau refreshment stand, with one of the most beautiful panoramas of the Mer de Glace and the Drus.
- The Little North Balcony : a forest path on a balcony which runs along the slope of the Aiguilles Rouges and connects the villages of the valley, including Le Lavancher.
The ideal scenario? Book your table before lacing up your hiking boots, rack up the miles in the morning, and find your steaming barbecue ready when you get back down. For more hiking ideas, take a look at our city guide "Chamonix in summer".
La Table du Lavancher, the relaxed bistro of Jeu de Paume
The midday barbecue is the most convivial signature of The Lavancher Tablethe open-air bistro of the Hotel Jeu de PaumeAn address open to all, designed for the simple and sunny moments of the day: breakfast, brunch and lunch.
Not to be confused with The RosebudOur evening restaurant, La Table du Lavancher, offers a more refined and gastronomic experience: a bistro-style terrace and a cheerful atmosphere. Depending on the day, you can also find the famous... weekend BBQ brunch and a breakfast buffet already renowned in the valley.
After lunch: sparelaxation and gentleness of Lavancher
Once you've savored the last ember, there's no obligation to leave. Extend your afternoon at spa of the hotel To soothe your legs after a hike: an outdoor jacuzzi, spa treatments, and the added bonus of mountain silence. This address is part of the collection SoCosy Hotels, which brings together charming houses designed for slowing down and savoring.
Booking: a simple call before setting off on your walk
The terrace is popular, and seating is intentionally limited to maintain a high standard of service. The hiker's daily special sells out quickly, especially on sunny weekends. The safest bet: reserve by phone at +33 (0)4 50 54 03 76The address? 705 route du Chapeau, in Lavancher, 10 minutes from the centre of Chamonix, with free private parking.
F.A.Q
How much does the dish of the day cost at La Table du Lavancher?
The "hiker's special" dish of the day is €19: a barbecue grill accompanied by a seasonal garnish, served at lunchtime on the terrace in the hamlet of Lavancher, in Chamonix.
On which days is the barbecue served?
From Friday to Sunday, at lunchtime, in season. Lunch is served on the terrace, facing the Mont Blanc massif.
Do you need to book for lunch?
It's highly recommended: the terrace fills up quickly, especially on sunny weekends. Book by phone at +33 (0)4 50 54 03 76.
Is La Table du Lavancher open to non-residents?
Yes. The bistro welcomes both passing visitors and hotel guests, by reservation and subject to availability.
Where is the restaurant located and is parking available?
Located at 705 route du Chapeau, Le Lavancher, 74400 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, 10 minutes from the centre of Chamonix. Free private parking is available for guests.
