Lunch in Savoie at Restaurant Le Saint-André, Les Marches

If you're traveling through the Savoie region and looking for a wine-focused restaurant near a lake, Restaurant Le Saint-André in Les Marches is a must-visit. With its scenic terrace and hard-to-find local wines, it’s an ideal spot for a relaxed lunch that reflects the alpine character of the region.

We visited on a sunny day and chose to sit outside on the shaded terrace overlooking Lac Saint-André, just below the slopes of Mont Granier. The setting felt quiet and removed from the bustle, with views of vineyards and the gentle movement of the lake in the background.

The meal began with a fresh plate of salad greens, grilled tomato, and two crostini — one topped with a green vegetable purée, the other with a richer, darker olive based spread. It was a light, balanced starter that matched perfectly with a glass of crisp white wine.

The highlight of the lunch was the bottle of 2015 Les Alpes from Dominique Belluard, a wine that has become nearly impossible to find in the U.S. Belluard was one of the most respected producers in Savoie, known for farming steep alpine vineyards using biodynamic practices. His estate focused on preserving the Gringet grape, grown on only about 20 hectares worldwide. Les Alpes is fermented with indigenous yeasts and aged in egg-shaped cement vats, resulting in a wine that is floral, mineral-driven, and textured with incredible finesse. It was a rare opportunity to enjoy a wine that rarely makes it beyond Europe — most bottles that reach the U.S. are quickly claimed by sommeliers in New York.

For the main course, we had a version of pesto chicken made with juicy, well-seared chicken thighs, served over zucchini and finished with a silky, herbaceous sauce. The dish was vibrant, simple, and perfect alongside the alpine white wine.

Restaurant Le Saint-André blends a relaxed lakeside setting with a clear appreciation for wine. The menu changes frequently, and while our lunch leaned more Mediterranean than traditionally Savoyard, the cooking was thoughtful and well-matched to the wine selection. The staff was attentive, and the atmosphere encouraged lingering. Though we visited during a busy lunch service, I look forward to returning someday for dinner indoors, where the cellar offerings likely take an even more central role.

Restaurant Le Saint-André1018 Route du Lac Saint-André, 73800 Les Marches, France