It’s all about location, location, location, and delicious food. Biglari Café‘s location could not be better; this trendy café on the enchanting port of [amazon_textlink asin=’1465467971′ text=’Saint-Tropez’ template=’ProductLink’ store=’theyums-20′ marketplace=’US’ link_id=’c02772ea-0938-11e9-be76-8105a097597e’], offers dazzling views of the Mediterranean and the super yachts steps ahead. Barely sixteen months old, Biglari Café has won the hearts of both locals and tourists; the food, vibe, and view are superb.
American businessman, Sardar Biglari is the man behind the café. While you may not recognize his name, you’ve probably dined at his wildly popular chain, Steak ‘n Shake. Here, Biglari has elevated the humble burger and milkshake, added additional specialties worthy of a jet-setter’s paradise, while providing a dining experience with affordable meals that won’t blow most budgets. With fresh ingredients and homemade dishes, it’s a mouthwatering win-win.
Location: 1 et 3 Quai Suffren, Saint-Tropez, France.
Menu: Like Steak ‘n Shake, Biglari is known for burgers and shakes. You’ll find a classic cheeseburger but if you’re feeling a bit adventurous try the burger topped with mounds of [amazon_textlink asin=’B000M8O0ME’ text=’shaved truffle’ template=’ProductLink’ store=’theyums-20′ marketplace=’US’ link_id=’f4af049b-0938-11e9-95ac-e1e2b7497ce2′], a perfectly poached egg, and crowned with shaved [amazon_textlink asin=’B01GSJRENM’ text=’Pecorino cheese’ template=’ProductLink’ store=’theyums-20′ marketplace=’US’ link_id=’03f1e197-0939-11e9-a24a-0f2a6d6788c2′]. All burgers come with fries. The milkshakes topped with whipped cream beg for sharing. I regret not ordering the Kit Kat shake, but that provides a good excuse for a return visit with my husband.
If you’re looking for a lighter meal, try the beautifully presented Burrata Flower Salad dressed with a vinaigrette. Classic French, oh yes; you’ll find steak frites, flambéed Steak Diane, or steak tartare with fries.
The selections from the cheese trolley vary, but this being France you’ll be spoiled for choice.
Beer and wine are available by glass or bottle.
Thoughts: Having arrived in Saint-Tropez by ship for a special event; I spotted Biglari Café while strolling along the port. Although numerous restaurants and cafés line Saint Tropez’s picturesque port, Biglari had a vibe that seduced me. Its covered terrace was easily the busiest; singles, couples, and families were all vying for a seat. I waited several minutes before catching the waiter’s eye; he smiled and seated me at a table facing the yachts. I knew this would be a wonderful dining experience. And it was.
Although the café was bustling, my waiter quickly brought a menu, and took my drink order; I’d been seated about 10 seconds. When he returned with my beverage, I asked what he would recommend. Smiling he said, “Honestly, everything on the menu is delicious, but we are often told our burgers are the best.”
He had me at best burgers.
After ordering the Fourme d’Ambert ([amazon_textlink asin=’B0000D9N3O’ text=’bleu cheese’ template=’ProductLink’ store=’theyums-20′ marketplace=’US’ link_id=’240d2dfd-0939-11e9-bc7a-5fea962c756a’]) et Bacon burger, it was time to soak up the ambiance. The covered terrace with its teakwood tables inlaid with white, and comfy chairs, gives the impression that you are seated on the back of a yacht, very nautical. With a color palette of blue and white accented with gold, it’s chic and classic. Old photos of Saint-Tropez line the walls. The ambiance is one of style and taste, befitting its location.
Stopping at my table, my waiter advised my lunch would be out in a few minutes. As we chatted, he shared, “The artisan buns are baked daily, and the beef is sourced from farms in Provence. We are pleased to say our burgers are freshly made from farm to table.”
Several minutes later, my meal was before me, and it was huge. The bun was lightly buttered and grilled, topping the beef was a heaping helping of French bacon, melted bleu cheese, along with tomato, fresh greens, and onion. The crispy fries were perfection on a plate.
With the first bite, I knew this was the best burger I had ever eaten. It was juicy and flavorful. The bacon and cheese could have been a meal in itself; the smoked bacon was delectable, and the fruity, woody taste of my favorite French cheese complimented the bacon beautifully. I savored every last bite of food while mentally planning my next visit.
The waiter smiled and gave a thumbs up when he looked at my clean plate. Hands down, best burger ever.
It’s not often one hears the words affordable and Saint-Tropez in the same sentence, but this was the case; my burger was €22, my glass of wine €7, Biglari Café lived up to its commitment of affordable dining in Saint-Tropez.
Price Range: Hamburgers are €14-32, salads €19-25, and steaks €10-36. Smoked salmon and foie gras are €20. Milkshakes are €7-10. Beer and wine run €7-13 a glass, and the cheese trolley is €15-20.
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As hopeless Francophiles, she and her husband are planning to move to France; spring 2019.
Barb's articles have appeared in a variety of publications including The Good Life France Magazine, International Living, Fund Your Life Overseas, and more.
She's a member of The International Travel Writers Alliance (ITWA).
Visit her blog at; Chasingthenextchapter.com
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