At some points in time and space, one exists in completely different realities than others. The praise for the 2 Michelin star Cordeillan Bages is so universal and glowing that the awarding of its eventual 3rd star (next year?) will just be a formality. This tidal wave of support and enthusiasm should have been an ominous warning - Pic was another 2 star restaurant from my trip last May that just received its much anticipated 3rd star.

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Michel Trama held 2 Michelin stars for 20 years before being promoted to three in 2004. The hotel/restaurant is located in Puymirol, France atop a hill behind old stone walls. It’s an old 15th century monastery that has undergone considerable transformation while still maintaining its sense of place - you feel as if you’ve traveled somewhere, unlike the modern machinations of Michel Bras’s spaceship in the Laguiole countryside.

Inside, the lobby has been described as “bordello-like” with its leather chairs and eclectic mix of furniture and paintings.

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