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Aux Petits Oignons lunch review

Could this be the greatest croque monsieur in the 3 valleys?

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By Jack Franks, Updated

You may have noticed that we’ve all been a bit hungry just recently on Merinet and as a result we’ve been sharing our favourite pizzas, burgers and fondue spots with you. These articles have caused much debate on the chairlifts of Meribel, some more heated than others (gotta love that Bad Boy Burger).

With this article I expect no debate, only agreement. I hope to unite the people of Meribel with a shared love of what is without doubt THE GREATEST CROQUE MONSIEUR IN THE 3 VALLEYS.

This legendary melted sandwich can be found at Aux Petits Oignons up at Meribel 1600. If you aren’t familiar with this pub/restaurant it is definitely worth checking out. The lunchtime menu is full of delicious treats, all at very reasonable prices. They even do a 3 course set menu for €14 which you would be hard pushed to beat for price and quality anywhere in the 3 Valleys.

All in all it is the perfect lunchtime spot to go and get warm by the log fire when it’s wet, windy and miserable outside but equally, there is a lovely sun trap of a terrace to sit and enjoy a nice cold beer. Their evening menu is also very popular and I highly recommend giving it a go.

But enough about the venue. We’re here to talk about one dish and one dish only; The Maxi Croque Monsieur.

Imagine a bog-standard croque monsieur from a bakery or fast food style eatery on the mountain. You’re probably picturing a small, perfectly square, pale sandwich filled with cheap ham, gelatinous white sauce with a bit of rubbery emmental cheese on top.

Now imagine it three times the size, on thick crusty bread, made fresh from scratch with delicious melted beaufort cheese, smooth béchamel sauce and a good helping of ham… You are starting to get close to the pure delight that is the Maxi Croque.

At €12.50, this behemoth of a sandwich comes served with a green salad and could easily satisfy two, although it’s unlikely you’ll want to share. Once lunch finishes at 2, you can still order a croque ‘sans salad’ from the snack menu.

I defy anyone to find a better Croque Monsieur than this. It’s a thing of beauty. Don’t take my word for it. Go find out for yourself.

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