Freia

Freia is a rooftop restaurant in Nantes, centred around nature as its main source of inspiration. Its cuisine continuously evolves with the seasons, drawing inspiration from the vegetables grown by Alice Ménard, herbs cultivated in the restaurant's garden, and fish and meat sourced from dedicated fishers and farmers. The garden, planted with aromatic and medicinal herbs, small fruits, vegetables, and grasses such as oats, buckwheat, blackcurrants, coriander, elderflower, nasturtium, mint, and hyssop, lies at the heart of the project. Alice Ménard, from the sister restaurant Vacarme, has contributed to the creation and maintains this urban garden throughout the year. The menu is organised around edible landscapes, highlighting the environment where the ingredients grow, allowing guests to travel through distinct natural settings during their meal. Freia occupies a space similar to a greenhouse on the sixth floor, offering panoramic views over Nantes, the sky, and the lush greenery of the garden. The ascent to the restaurant provides a gradual disconnection from urban life, creating a serene getaway where nature reclaims its place between the urban and the wild. The atmosphere is calm and elevated, with large windows offering sweeping views and a garden setting that promotes an urban retreat centred on nature. Chef Sarah Mainguy leads a contemporary plant-focused kitchen that develops seasonal tasting menus inspired by the garden's herbs and medicinal plants. Freia's culinary approach includes dishes inspired by edible landscapes and innovative techniques, complemented by thoughtful non-alcoholic drink pairings.