Of course one of the most important times of day in France is lunch time. It is that all important time of the day when the attention turns from the spectacle of equestrian excellence to the needs of the stomach
The city of Caen itself has many restaurants of varying types but for those not wishing to walk the 20 minutes or so into the centre of town or wait for the shuttle bus, there are a couple of spots just opposite the Stade d’Ornano, where all the dressage action has been taking place, which have become hot favourites
The Oyster Bar directly opposite the stadium was packed to overflowing the night of the Opening Ceremony as people opted to ‘boire une verre’ until the traffic died down and it has been well frequented ever since. Here you drink a glass of whatever takes your fancy and nibble on a platter of pates or assorted charcuterie with friends
If you’re looking for something slightly more substantial, just around the corner is the Viking pizzeria and restaurant. You can be seated inside to enjoy your meal or grab a take away pizza or one of the many prepared baguettes, waiting for the hordes to descend at lunchtime with Madame behind the counter in charge
Talking of baguettes, the place to indulge your French patisserie fantasy is the local patisserie, again just across from the stadium and they are queuing out of the door as soon as the lunch break starts. The lovely ladies in their jolly hats are more than happy to oblige at quiet times by making your baguette to order – a quick note here not to take your baguette out into the rain (which sounds like a song). A few drops of water and a baguette visibly droops – put it in a media locker for the rest of the afternoon and you have a very sorry looking baguette by the end of the day. If you’re not a journalist and can pop out for fresh bread morning, noon and evening, like the real French people do, then that is the best way to get your fresh, crunchy bread.
And if none of this appeals, as you are in France you definitely need to try a crepe ......... bon appetit!
