Fontaine Daniel is the epitome of a French country village steeped in history and the birthplace of the famous toiles de Mayenne fabrics. Overlooking a pond and the forest, this restaurant is housed in a former outbuilding of a Cistercian abbey, which became the hub of this textile manufacturing enterprise in the 19C. Chef William Blondel, who has worked as far afield as New Zealand, cooks primarily with local produce that he doesn’t hesitate to enhance with modern and creative twists of his own creation. It’s unique, sometimes unsettling, but always hits the spot, depicted by dishes like mackerel, cauliflower and a coffee-based sauce!