Step into La Couronne in Rouen, France, and you might feel as if you’ve been transported back in time. The restaurant, which was founded in 1345, is known as the oldest inn in France. It’s also located just down the street from where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake.
But perhaps the restaurant’s bigger claim to fame is that it was where iconic chef Julia Child experienced her first French meal in 1948 — which eventually led her to a life promoting the French style of cooking.
Rouen is a port of call during Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection’s Paris and Normandy itinerary onboard the new Joie de Vivre Super Ship, and a port excursion to La Couronne serves as one of the river cruise line’s unique culinary-themed Connoisseur Collection tours (which are available on select France departures).
During my visit there, I ordered my own delectable tarte tatin (a flaky French pastry topped with sugary, caramelized fruit and a dollop of cream) and tried to channel the inspiration felt by a young Julia Child — while knowing full well that the closest I’ve ever come to creating a French dish was attempting to make onion soup in my trusty slow cooker.
If guests want to bypass the classic tarte tatin and opt for a full meal, they have a hearty menu to choose from: French items include beef fillet, escargot (snails), foie gras, lobster and crab risotto and more.
The Details
La Couronne Restaurant and Inn in Rouen, France
www.lacouronne.com.fr