Dijon
Vélo Notes
Monique led us all the way into Dijon, first stopping at the Cité de la Gastronomie for a wine tasting. We chose wines we were already familiar with, enjoying the chance to revisit their flavors. We also descended into the cellar to check out their collection. The display case for Romanée-Conti was empty — not that we were planning to buy a bottle (far out of our budget), but we were curious nonetheless.
Monique kindly offered to let me stay at her place for a few more days, which gave me the chance to get to know Dijon more intimately. The following morning, we set out to explore the city. We picked up an audio guide in English — though next time, I’d like to challenge myself and try the one in French.
Being a local, Monique naturally ran into friends — one in the center of town, another at the Halles market. Thanks to her, we even got a few discounts. It was a relaxed, spontaneous day — full of flavors, stories, and connections.
Dijon, located in the heart of the Burgundy region in France, is a city rich in history and deeply embedded in the country’s gastronomic culture. Its culinary significance can be traced back centuries, with several key elements contributing to its legacy:
Mustard: Perhaps Dijon’s most famous contribution to French cuisine is its mustard. Known worldwide, Dijon mustard was created in the 18th century, and its refined, smooth flavor is considered a quintessential element of French cooking. The city’s mustard production has remained an important industry, with iconic brands like Maillecalling Dijon home.
Burgundy Wine: Dijon is closely associated with Burgundy wine, a region renowned for its world-class Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The city's position at the northern tip of the Côte de Nuits, one of Burgundy's premier wine-producing areas, allows it to serve as a hub for wine aficionados. Visitors can explore the Burgundy Wine Route, which passes near Dijon, offering a deep dive into the region’s rich viticulture.
Traditional French Cuisine: The city’s historic markets, such as the Les Halles de Dijon, offer a wide variety of fresh, local ingredients that are central to traditional Burgundy dishes. Local specialties include Coq au Vin(chicken braised in wine), Bœuf Bourguignon (beef stewed in red wine), and Escargots de Bourgogne (snails with garlic and parsley butter). Dijon’s culinary scene also boasts a number of fine restaurants serving regional delicacies.
The Food and Wine Pairing Culture: Dijon’s gastronomy is deeply intertwined with the pairing of food and wine. Many restaurants in and around the city are known for their extensive wine lists, often offering the opportunity to taste local wines alongside expertly prepared regional dishes.
Historical Influence: Dijon was once the capital of the Duchy of Burgundy, and its historical role in European politics and trade helped shape its gastronomic culture. The city has always been an important crossroads for French and European trade, influencing its access to spices, herbs, and various culinary techniques.
Today, Dijon’s gastronomy continues to thrive, blending traditional elements with innovative modern touches, making it an essential destination for anyone interested in French culinary heritage.