Le Toya: zen surroundings and uncluttered cuisine!
I was lucky enough to try out chef Loïc Villemin‘s restaurant, Toya, on two occasions. A globetrotter at heart and a lover of Japan, chef Loïc Villemin opened his restaurant in 2010. The name Toya refers to the famous volcanic lake in northern Japan, in the heart of Shikotsu-Tōya National Park. This Japanese touch can be found not only in the dishes, but also in the restaurant’s layout. In 2017, the chef decided to assert his cooking philosophy, and this went hand in hand with the complete renovation of his restaurant. The place is uncluttered, zen, natural. The restaurant also boasts a beautiful setting, facing the Faulquemont golf course.
Ecological awareness is at the heart of the restaurant. For example, chef Loïc Villemin gives pride of place to small local producers and seasonal produce. The menu changes every week according to the products of its producers. The restaurant practices zero waste, zero plastic, zero chemicals (natural paints, homemade cleaning products) and zero seafood. Vegetables are grown in the restaurant’s own garden.
The restaurant was also awarded 1 green star in 2022. This adds to the restaurant’s track record of 1 Michelin star, 4 Gault&Millau toques and 3 Ecotable macaroons.
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A seasonal menu with a focus on produce!
Because of his approach to the product, I wasn’t too worried when I asked the chef to create an entirely vegetarian menu. What I discovered was a straightforward style of cooking that puts the product to the fore. I really appreciated the restaurant’s setting, which is really pleasant. There’s a real sense of space, calm and tranquillity.
Best Veggie Tables' opinion
To sum up: A beautiful address where ecological awareness takes on its full meaning!
Areas for improvement: If I had to make one small reservation about this restaurant, it would be the dessert. During my 2 visits, I found it to be slightly inferior to the other dishes.
Last visit: August 2022 (2 visits)
Where to find this exceptional table
Toya
Gastronomic restaurant – 1 Michelin star and 1 green star
Av. Jean Monnet, 57380 Faulquemont
Open Wednesday to Sunday, 12:15 – 1:00 pm and 7:15 – 9:00 pm