La Table des Chefs at Maison Mumm feels less like a restaurant and more like a secret—one you’re lucky enough to be welcomed into. Tucked into a grand old mansion in Reims, it’s intimate, elegant, and steeped in history. But it’s the food that makes this lunch unforgettable. With Chef Sato Hideaki, co-owner of Hong Kong’s three-Michelin-starred Ta Vie, leading the kitchen, every dish is precise, thoughtful, and just indulgent enough.
Lunch begins with a glass of Champagne, of course. It’s Mumm’s way of welcoming you into their maison, and before you’ve even had a bite to eat, it’s clear the experience to come will be extraordinary.
When we visited, the burrata came first, nestled among wedges of tomato, delicate slices of grapefruit, and a shimmering Champagne jelly. Light, bright, and playful, it was one of the standout dishes.
Next was the gratin artichoke, stuffed generously with crab. Decadent without being heavy, the sweet richness of the crab contrasted beautifully with the earthy artichoke.
The oysters that arrived next, bathed in beurre blanc and topped with caviar and chives, were probably our favorite course. They tasted like the sea—briny, buttery, and impossibly luxurious. Interestingly, they reminded us of one of the iconic dishes of The French Laundry in Napa Valley, but much more authentic and less overworked.
The langoustine followed, served alongside sea snails and mushrooms. It was delicate but deep, a dish that whispers rather than shouts. A pour of Mumm’s 2014 vintage Champagne brought it to life, the bubbles cutting through the richness and tying every element together.
For the main course, a pigeon was paired with seasonal squash caramelized just enough to tease out its sweetness. It’s autumn on a plate, deeply comforting and refined.
For dessert, the pistachio ice cream was incredibly smooth, paired with tart meringue and a hint of citrus.
What makes this lunch truly remarkable is its balance. Every dish is luxurious without being too showy, intricate without being fussy. And when it’s all over, you’re sent home with a bottle of Mumm’s Blanc de Blancs, a parting gift that feels as thoughtful as the meal itself.
Note: Mumm provided support for the reporting of this story.