Café Lavinal of Château Lynch-Bages: A Vibrant Pauillac Bistrot Experience

Posted by Rowena Dumlao Rowena Dumlao - Giardina 2/24/2025

Café Lavinal of Château Lynch-Bages: A Vibrant Pauillac Bistrot Experience

With 1930s-inspired decor, featuring red moleskin bench seats, a zinc bar, and a striking central lighting fixture, Café Lavinal exudes nostalgic elegance paired with energetic, contemporary vibes. This vibrant bistrot, tucked away in the charming village of Bages, just steps from Château Lynch-Bages, is owned by the Cazes family and forms an integral part of the Château Lynch-Bages estate. Since its opening in 2006, it has been a favorite gathering spot for locals, winemakers, and visitors. Named after Berthe Lavinal, grandmother of Jean-Michel Cazes, the café draws guests with its inviting charm and rich history.

The atmosphere buzzes with warmth and friendliness. Personal touches from Jean-Michel Cazes, including unique objects collected during his travels and treasured family souvenirs, add character to the space. On sunny days, the sun-drenched terrace becomes the perfect spot to relax and savor regional flavors while enjoying stunning views of the cobbled village square. The restaurant also offers a banqueting room that seats up to 40 guests, making it ideal for intimate gatherings.

The Menu

Chef Gabriel Gette crafts vibrant, seasonal dishes that celebrate the essence of Bordeaux. The menu highlights traditional French cuisine, prepared exclusively from local ingredients. The Lavinal Menu (€29, excluding drinks) features a pre-starter, starter, main course, and dessert—perfect for a complete exploration of Médoc cuisine. For a more refined dining experience, the Gourmet Menu (€45, excluding drinks), available only for dinner, includes a starter, main course, and dessert. Starters range from €9 to €24, including highlights such as foie gras. Fish and meat dishes are priced between €24 and €86, with the beef rib for two being the premium option. Desserts are available from €7 to €12.

Two dishes that should not be missed are the Médoc Oysters, offering a fresh taste of the region, priced between €8 for 3 until €26 for 12; and the delicious Roasted Chicken Thigh, served with Chateaubriand sauce and baby potatoes (€24), a comforting yet elevated classic that perfectly embodies the flavors of the Médoc.

The Wine Offerings

For wine enthusiasts, the wine list at Café Lavinal is a true highlight, featuring over 1,800 selections. Curated by Arnaud Le Saux, head sommelier at Cordeillan-Bages, the collection offers a world-class selection of Bordeaux’s finest wines, alongside exceptional picks from around the globe.

The innovative Enoline system allows guests to sample up to eight red wines by the glass, available in various serving sizes, perfect for tastings or enjoying a full glass. For those looking to elevate their dining experience, Café Lavinal provides an extensive wine pairing selection featuring over 220 references from Bordeaux and beyond, ensuring a perfect match for every dish.