Initial - Caen
Initial
Menu
A comprehensive overview of all 35 meals and drinks can be found here on the menu of Initial from Caen.
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Was Vincent Petitjean at Initial a mag?
We made a very nice discovery tonight. the dishes are declined around subtle aromas, brought by scented peppers that invite you to travel. We enjoyed each dish, the warm welcome and the eco-responsible approach of the chef, passionate about his profession. Will we come back, will we???? View all feedback.
What Alain Boutin dislikes about Initial:
Excellent cuisine, bravo to the chief! However, minimalist and unjustified server. the glass of wines served according to the dishes of my wife are too small (7 or 8 cl, no more.) on the other hand, those served with a bottle already purchased are huge. I discuss it with the server at the end, and he says it is indicated on the menu that the glasses in agreement with the dishes are only half-glasses. Well? I ask for... View all feedback.
We had the lunch menu at 21 euros, which was mind blowingly good. Small gazpacho for intro followed by the entree, then a free small cuplet of mussels which were cooked to perfection, then main course of filet of sea bass (fantastic) and finally a dessert to crown the whole gastronomy experience. Wow! On ly the french can cook this good.
This was the second Michelin 1* restaurant we ate at on consecutive nights in Caen. The menus are imaginative and exciting, very different from more traditional high end establishments. The name of the restaurant gives a clue that the Chef is going to surprise you with flavors and combinations that are hard to guess, and the waiters quiz you after to see if you passed (one sauce with tomatoe was easy, the other with courgette impossible for us to identify). Overall the food is excptional and very good value. The only minor downsides are that the wine list is a little bit sparse, but still good; and the bread service acceptable, but not exceptional. The ambience and service is a bit more relaxed, that fits well with the style of the food. We would happily eat here again, and recommend highly. The number of tables is small, so advance booking probably essential.
Good location, close to city hall. Contemporary decor, view over the kitchen. Set menus with the best local ingredients at an affordable price. Colorful and tasty plates worth its one star Michelin. The service is nice and efficient. Lunch for about 40 euros per person with a glass of wine and coffee.
An incredible experience at MAGMA in Caen with the five-course tasting menu… blindfolded! The ruse worked perfectly: I, who loudly proclaim that I hate fish, found myself savoring salmon, red mullet, and trout… and almost asking for more! It just goes to show, never say never… especially when the chef is behind the stove. Each dish was a surprise, a deliciously orchestrated little gustatory suspense. The service was discreet, elegant, and efficient—you feel supported without ever being intrusive. And a special mention to the chef, who circulated among the tables to gather feedback: a lovely human touch that made the experience even more enjoyable. In conclusion: I'm officially reconciled with fish… well, as long as it's at MAGMA!
A wonderful discovery during my visit to Caen, thanks to a reservation app. The cuisine is inventive, full of talent, and the tastes and flavors are a delight for the palate. Will I return? Absolutely. As for the music, it's a matter of taste.
Menu
Entree
Lieu, Oignon Blanc, Pesto De WasabiAsperge, Lard Di ColonnataFoie Gras, Dattes MedjoolPlat
Bar De Ligne, GirolleSaint Pierre, Courgette, Parmesan Reggiano 30 MoisAgneau De Pré Salé, Artichaut Poivrade, Ail Des Ours
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