At the heart of winter, Versailles takes on a new aspect and reveals a singular atmosphere.
Within the contemporary, welcoming setting of the Pavillon Dufour, the restaurant Ore – Ducasse au Château de Versailles invites its guests to an exceptional gastronomic interlude. A celebration of the French art of living, carefully orchestrated by chefs Nina Belin and Arnaud Dutertre.
Once the bustle of summer has faded, Versailles reveals a more discreet, almost secret side. As the cold settles in, the estate regains a sovereign calm. The low December light gently traces the château’s architectural lines, while the garden pathways offer new perspectives—clearer, more intimate. It is an ideal moment to rediscover the site in complete tranquility and to be carried away by the enchantment of the festive season.
At the heart of this winter setting, our Maison stands as a destination of choice. Nestled on the first floor of the Pavillon Dufour, Ore – Ducasse au Château de Versailles is experienced as a place of elegance and comfort. An ideal refuge to extend the magic of the surroundings, warm up, and celebrate the end of the year with indulgence, overlooking the Cour Royale.
Christmas at Versailles: a royal setting of light and enchantment
The enchantment takes hold from the Place d’Armes. At year’s end, the Cour d’Honneur comes alive to welcome visitors: elegantly arranged, fir trees punctuate the perspective and lead the eye toward the Royal Gate.
As daylight fades, the spectacle intensifies. Carefully designed lighting effects highlight the architecture, revealing the historic façades and composing a setting of rare elegance.
This walk across the courtyard, in the crisp winter air, fully contributes to the distinctive atmosphere of the festive season. The Pavillon Dufour then offers a welcome transition, allowing one to move in just a few moments from the vastness of the court to the warm intimacy of our restaurant. Step through the doors of Ore – Ducasse au Château de Versailles and offer your palate a sovereign celebration.
The Pavillon Dufour: the brilliance of a reimagined setting
Inside, the light softens. During the festive season, the décor of Ore – Ducasse au Château de Versailles creates a warm and refined atmosphere. The contemporary elegance of the salons naturally blends with the Christmas spirit, forming a perfect harmony with the Château’s vistas. Through the play of mirrors, the spectacle of the Cour Royale joins your table without ever leaving the comfort of the surroundings.
This holiday staging enhances the experience, supported by service of impeccable precision that places the guest at the center of attention. While this setting elevates lunch, it is equally suited to afternoon treats. The space then becomes the ideal setting for enjoying tea while gazing at the Château de Versailles: a gourmet pause to savor winter after your visit.
Festive Delights: Winter Haute Cuisine
If the décor delights the eye, the culinary emotion etches itself into memory. Guided by an unwavering pursuit of ingredient truth, Alain Ducasse’s gastronomic philosophy takes on festive and comforting notes. From December 15 to 31, chef Nina Belin and pastry chef Arnaud Dutertre orchestrate a seasonal repertoire, blending natural flavors with the spirit of Christmas.
Exploring the menu at Ore – Ducasse au Château de Versailles is an initiation into the French art of living. Take, for example, the confit duck foie gras, which opens the meal with pure indulgence, making way for the centerpiece of our Christmas suggestions: the poularde with Albufera sauce. In delicate homage to Alain Chapel, a guiding figure for Alain Ducasse, his iconic recipe takes center stage. The poultry, poached then roasted, is distinguished by the unparalleled creaminess of its sauce: a silky blend of foie gras with reductions of cognac, white port, and Madeira. A dish of memory and sharing, the quintessence of festive generosity.
And to conclude this gastronomic chapter, pastry chef Arnaud Dutertre presents his “Versaillaise of the Moment.” A signature chocolate Yule log from the Alain Ducasse Manufactures, whose precise structure and aromatic intensity mark the crowning moment of this royal feast.
An experience to live or to offer
Dining at Ore – Ducasse au Château de Versailles at year’s end offers a privileged pause at the heart of your visit. Bathed in light, the rooms of the Pavillon Dufour open onto the majesty of the royal courts. An exceptional panorama where the enchanting atmosphere invites you to seize the moment: a rare opportunity to capture a few shots of this royal setting, dotted with December sparkle.
And why not bring a piece of Versailles under the tree? To share this enchantment with your loved ones, consider our gift vouchers. Offering a gastronomic meal or breakfast at the Château de Versailles makes for a gift as elegant as it is original. The promise of an unforgettable gourmet moment, to be enjoyed long after the last holiday lights have faded.
