Le Neptune Collioure Restaurant Review
Le Neptune Restaurant Review
Is Le Neptune the best known restaurant in Collioure? It’s hard to know as they have competition from so many others, but it’s probably one of the longest established fine dining restaurants in Collioure – with a view to match!
Before we get on to the food, I also just want to point out that it has loads of private parking.
When you arrive to Collioure, you’ll understand why that’s important, but to me, it’s an important consideration as it means the whole experience is pain free and you can focus on indulging yourself in gluttony at Le Neptune.
Also, the terrace is lovely with views over the whole bay including the castle, so at Le Neptune, you can really make a day of it – take your time, order a drink, look out to sea and take it all in – then lazily order your food – it’s that kind of place. This restaurant isn't just about dining; it's an experience that encapsulates the essence of the South of France on a plate.
Headed by chef Vincent Guerraz, it’s about very fresh seafood, often done quite simply, but very well executed.
Starting with the Entrees, the Anchovies from Maison Desclaux offer a zesty beginning, their pickled goodness paired beautifully with a rustic potato salad adorned with almonds and red onions. The addition of Tastou, a blend of tapenade and fresh goat's cheese, elevates this starter into a melody of local flavours.
The Oysters from Cap Blanc at Leucate are a must-try – served as six, nine or a dozen - these oysters are accompanied by salted butter and Banyuls vinegar, and are as fresh as they get.
The obligatory Iberian Charcuterie Plate, includes ham aged for 36 months, Morcón, Lomo and Morcilla with the added delight of anchovy butter and garlic-rubbed toast to complement the rich characuterie.
Lastly, the Smoked Salmon Heart, drizzled with honey and ginger & soy, is playful blend of flavors and the Foie Gras de Canard is served with smoked swordfish most originally.
For mains, I have to mention the Spiny Lobster, because I’m a fan of lobster and I frankly don’t think it’s on enough menus - grilled simply on the planxa, it really doesn’t need any more embellishment, its delicate sweetness a testament to the fresh lobster.
A rarity I spotted on the menu was Grilled Pigeon served with a potato mousseline infused with prunes and a fragrant Collioure red wine sauce and mushrooms - a dish that's both grounded and sophisticated, much like Collioure itself.
The Beouf Rossini is worth a try too - pan-seared beef fillet topped with foie gras – tastes as guilty as it sounds.
The Lotte—grilled monkfish steak—rests in a sea of rock fish juice and anise, whilst a crunchy fennel and squid ink risotto add depth and contrast.
La Parillade offers an assortment of grilled fish and octopus served simply with parsley and lemon. This is typical of Le Neptune – sometimes overcomplicating a dish ruins it. Also, the Tuna & Gambas, seared tuna and shrimp wrapped in a sesame crust – is delicious.
