"Le 109 is a pleasant surprise hidden in the cellars of the imposing Chateau du Motte du Fenelon in Cambrai, where we stayed for the night. The Chateau itself, having a somewhat chequered past, has been turned into a characterful hotel, and we enjoyed our...stopover. The restaurant itself is a delight to enter. Stylish, smart, professional staff, ambient but unobtrusive chilled jazz music. But watch your head in the doorways! We were at our ease quickly. Having had a disappointing meal in blighty the night before we were ready to be treated. We decided to go for the Gourmet menu, which at just 29€ for 3 courses seemed the way to go. Warm bread rolls to start and a bottle of a delightfully warming Bordeaux for me. Then a little plate of complimentary canapés arrived. Warm tartlet, crispy deep fried prawn, heavenly olive cheese mini-toast. At least, that’s my best take on what they were. But all boded well. My starter was asparagus with a super dressing on what seemed like a pearl barley soft biscuit. It was excellent. My wife’s prawn terrine was equally well received. The evening was passing nicely, as was the Bordeaux. My main was rump steak with potato fondant with braised spring onions, tomatoes, and more that I have forgotten. It was very pleasant indeed. My wife’s duck pie was ‘nice’ as well. All in all, happy folk. For dessert my chocolate fondant was lacking in chocolate punch, sending the strong rhubarb puree right out of balance. But I polished it off. Whilst the strawberry crumble was actually a bowl of strawberries with crumble on top. Is there a point in deconstruction? But tasted nice all the same. All in all we were happy and would eat here again any time we were near. Just a few things that could have made some aspects of the meal 10% better. But definitely one to go to if in the area (as is the Chateau stopover too"
