"LES PHILOUS GOURMANDS"
Two men driven by sharing and conviviality
“Les Philous Gourmands” is above all the story of two men driven by a passion for gastronomy and hospitality.
Louis-Marie and Philippe combined their experiences and expertise to create a welcoming place, where simplicity and the pleasure of sharing prevail.
Louis-Marie: a chef with an international background
Louis-Marie is a chef and pastry chef with over 15 years of experience in Paris as a pastry chef, chocolatier, and cook. His career has been marked by extraordinary encounters, notably with Mrs. Chow Ching Lie, author of the book “Le Palanquin des larmes.”
Mrs. Chow Ching Lie, pianist, writer, and businesswoman born in 1936 in Shanghai, has been an iconic figure in fostering cultural ties between France and China.
Louis-Marie had the honor of being his personal chef for five years, a period during which he deepened his understanding of Chinese culture.
In 2006, Louis-Marie moved to China and partnered with a Chinese family to create a chain of bakeries and cafes. In collaboration with France, they opened 12 shops, restaurants, pastry shops, and cafes, which he managed until 2018 before returning to France to reconnect with his region and his family home. His meeting with Philippe led to the creation of a bed and breakfast in a traditional Kota chalet.
A Career Dedicated to Hospitality
Philippe has 43 years of experience in the hospitality industry. After an apprenticeship in the Poitou-Charentes region of France, he worked for a year in Great Britain in various hotels and gourmet restaurants. He then worked for three years in Germany, one year in Switzerland, and three years in Bora Bora. Upon returning to France, he worked on the French Riviera, then on the Île de Ré and in La Rochelle, notably at the restaurant “Les Flots” under chef Grégory Coutanceau.
In 2007, he was awarded the prestigious title of “One of the Best Craftsmen of France” in the Arts and Service of the Table category. His expertise is particularly evident in his mastery of tableside service, a technique that elevates the dining experience and showcases dishes with elegance and precision. His international experience and his ability to adapt to the expectations of each guest make him an attentive and caring host.
A warm welcome
With their dedication to service and their experience, Louis-Marie and Philippe aim to offer their guests a convivial interlude. Their fluency in foreign languages (French, English, and Chinese for Louis-Marie; French, English, German, and Italian for Philippe) allows them to welcome a diverse clientele in a spirit of exchange and sharing.
The family home: a precious heritage
The family home, a witness to many generations, is the heart of their project. It embodies the authenticity and charm that Louis-Marie and Philippe wish to share with their guests. Each space tells a story, each object has a soul, reflecting a love of heritage and traditions. "The Philous Gourmands have a wonderful story to tell.
Kota cabins for an authentic stay
The family home, steeped in history, is the starting point of this adventure. The Kota cabins, inspired by Finnish dwellings, offer warm and comfortable accommodation, perfect for relaxation, just as Philippe and Louis-Marie intended.
A gourmet and authentic table d'hôtes
The table d'hôtes reflects their philosophy: quality cuisine, without pretension, showcasing seasonal produce and flavors from near and far. Meals are designed as moments of pleasure and sharing, in a simple and welcoming atmosphere.
An invitation to discovery
"Les Philous Gourmands" is above all a place to live, where everyone can gather around a table, enjoy a good meal, and experience a warm and inviting atmosphere. Louis-Marie and Philippe are committed to welcoming their guests with simplicity and Generosity, in an environment conducive to sharing and discovery.