ROND - Sarrazin et Calvados -

At ROND, the food philosophy is refreshingly straightforward: source excellent ingredients, prepare them with respect for tradition, and let their quality speak for itself. The kitchen's commitment to organic and sustainably-farmed products from Normandy and Perche ensures that every galette and crêpe starts with a superior foundation.

The buckwheat flour, sourced specifically from Perche, forms the base of all savory galettes. This isn't just any buckwheat—the terroir of Perche imparts a distinctive nutty flavor and creates the perfect texture, crispy at the edges while remaining tender where it cradles the fillings. The kitchen prepares each galette to order, achieving that ideal balance between structure and delicacy that defines great Breton cooking.

The savory menu ranges from classics to creative interpretations. The galette complète (8€) represents the gold standard—quality ham, a perfectly cooked egg, and aged comté cheese melding together in harmonious simplicity. It's the kind of dish that reveals a kitchen's true skill; there's nowhere to hide when the preparation is this straightforward.

More elaborate options showcase the kitchen's creativity within traditional boundaries. The Bellême (featuring fig, goat cheese, and walnuts) brings sophisticated flavor combinations to the rustic galette format, while the Omaha Beach loads up on hearty ingredients—egg, bacon, cheddar, and onions—for a more substantial meal. The Peudrière (11€) and Belleville-sur-Mer (12€) offer additional variations, each thoughtfully composed to balance flavors and textures.

Sweet crêpes provide the essential counterpoint to the savory galettes. The citron-miel at 3,50€ exemplifies the beauty of simplicity—just quality crêpe batter, fresh lemon, and good honey. More elaborate sweet options allow for indulgence without straying from the crêperie's core identity.

The midday formula (12€) demonstrates the kitchen's understanding of neighborhood dining needs: a complete, satisfying meal at an accessible price point. The combination of galette, salad, and sweet crêpe provides variety and balance, making it one of Belleville's best lunch values.

What elevates the food experience at ROND is the beverage program. The selection of natural ciders from Normandy—available by the glass at 3,50€ for 25cl—provides the authentic pairing for buckwheat galettes. These aren't mass-produced ciders but carefully chosen bottles from small producers, offering the dry, complex flavors that complement rather than compete with the food. The extensive collection of vintage calvados represents a serious commitment to Norman gastronomy, offering everything from young, fiery spirits to aged, complex digestifs.

The kitchen's respect for ingredients and tradition, combined with fair pricing and generous portions, creates a dining experience that feels both authentic and accessible—exactly what a neighborhood crêperie should deliver.