Tours: More Than Just Valleys and Castles
Ah, Tours! Often celebrated for its proximity to the châteaux of the Loire Valley and its charming medieval architecture, this city nestled in the heart of the Loire Valley has a secret side that many visitors miss: its vibrant pub scene. While France might be synonymous with wine, Tours offers a fantastic array of pubs that cater to every taste, from craft beer aficionados to those seeking a cozy spot for a traditional pint. As a local who’s spent countless evenings exploring the city’s watering holes, I’m thrilled to share my insider tips on where to find the best pubs in Tours.
Understanding the Tours Pub Culture
The pub culture in Tours is a delightful blend of French conviviality and international pub traditions. You’ll find establishments that proudly serve local French beers alongside those that specialize in a vast selection of imported brews. What makes Tours’ pubs special is the atmosphere – they are often gathering places for locals, students, and visitors alike, fostering a warm and inviting environment. Forget the stuffy, formal dining experiences; here, it’s about relaxed conversations, good company, and, of course, excellent drinks. Many pubs also offer delicious food, ranging from classic pub fare to more refined French-inspired snacks (called ‘assiettes’ or platters).
The Importance of Local Brews and Craft Beer
In recent years, there’s been a burgeoning craft beer scene in France, and Tours is no exception. Local breweries are emerging, offering unique flavors that reflect the region. You’ll find breweries experimenting with local ingredients, and many pubs are eager to showcase these creations. If you’re a beer enthusiast, keeping an eye out for locally brewed options is a must. For those interested in learning more about the craft beer movement and discovering new brews, exploring resources like Dropt.beer can provide valuable insights and recommendations, even if they are not specific to Tours, they give a good overview of the scene.
My Top Picks: The Best Pubs in Tours
1. O’Malleys Irish Pub: The Heart of Social Life
No city’s pub guide is complete without an Irish pub, and O’Malleys is a beloved institution in Tours. Located centrally, it’s the go-to spot for a lively atmosphere, live music, and a wide selection of beers, including plenty of stouts and ales you’d expect from a proper Irish pub. They have a great outdoor seating area, perfect for people-watching on warmer evenings. It’s a fantastic place to catch up with friends or enjoy a casual meal. They often have sports screenings too, making it a popular haunt for expats and locals during major sporting events.
- Neighborhood: Centre-Ville
- Vibe: Lively, friendly, often crowded
- Must-Try: Their selection of Guinness and Kilkenny, plus any of their rotating guest beers.
- Insider Tip: Check their schedule for live music nights; they often feature talented local bands.
2. Le P’tit Bar: Authenticity and Local Charm
For a truly authentic French pub experience, Le P’tit Bar is unparalleled. This is less of a traditional ‘pub’ in the Anglo-Saxon sense and more of a classic French ‘bar’ with a convivial, neighborhood feel. It’s small, often bustling, and serves a great selection of local wines and beers. The charm lies in its unpretentiousness and the warm welcome you receive. It’s the perfect place to savor a glass of Touraine Sauvignon Blanc or try a local craft beer while observing the local life unfold.
- Neighborhood: Vieux Tours (Old Town)
- Vibe: Cozy, authentic, local
- Must-Try: Ask the bartender for their recommendation of a local beer or a regional wine.
- Insider Tip: This is a great spot for a pre-dinner apéritif.
3. Le Bistrot des Halles: Gastronomic Pub Fare
If you’re looking for a pub that elevates the dining experience, Le Bistrot des Halles is the place. Situated near the vibrant Halles de Tours market, it offers a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere. They boast an impressive drinks menu, with a focus on quality beers and wines, but it’s their food that truly shines. Expect well-prepared dishes that are perfect for pairing with your drink. It’s a slightly more upscale option, but still very much a pub at heart.
- Neighborhood: Centre-Ville, near Les Halles
- Vibe: Chic, relaxed, food-focused
- Must-Try: Their ‘assiette de charcuterie’ or ‘fromage’ paired with a Belgian or French craft beer.
- Insider Tip: Visit on a market day (Tuesday, Friday, Saturday) for a truly local experience.
4. The Old London Pub: A Touch of English Tradition
For those craving a taste of traditional British pub culture, The Old London Pub delivers. With its wood-paneled interiors, comfortable seating, and a selection of classic ales and lagers, it feels like stepping into a pub in London itself. They often have a good range of beers on tap and in bottles, and their menu includes some British pub grub favorites. It’s a reliable choice for a familiar atmosphere and a good pint.
- Neighborhood: Centre-Ville
- Vibe: Traditional, comfortable, classic
- Must-Try: A pint of Bass or a traditional bitter.
- Insider Tip: They sometimes host quiz nights, which are a fun way to engage with the local community.
5. Le Caveau des Anges: Hidden Gem for Wine and Beer Lovers
While primarily known as a wine bar, Le Caveau des Anges also offers a surprisingly good selection of craft beers, making it a hybrid gem. Tucked away on a quieter street, it provides a more intimate and sophisticated setting. The staff are knowledgeable and passionate about their drinks, whether it’s wine or beer. It’s an excellent spot for a more refined evening, where you can explore unique brews and enjoy artisanal snacks.
- Neighborhood: Vieux Tours
- Vibe: Intimate, sophisticated, relaxed
- Must-Try: Inquire about their rotating craft beer selection alongside their extensive wine list.
- Insider Tip: Perfect for a date night or a quiet conversation with friends.
Beyond the Pint: Food and Snacks
Most pubs in Tours understand that a good drink is often complemented by good food. You’ll find a range of offerings:
- Assiettes: These are platters, typically featuring local cheeses (from the Loire Valley, of course!) and charcuterie. They are perfect for sharing.
- Burgers and Fries: A common offering, often done with a French twist.
- Moules Frites: Mussels with fries, a classic French brasserie dish that sometimes makes its way onto pub menus, especially in places with a Belgian influence.
- Sandwiches and Salads: Lighter options for a quick bite.
Practical Tips for Pub-Goers in Tours
- Opening Hours: Pubs generally open in the late afternoon and stay open late, especially on weekends. Some may close between lunch and evening service, though this is less common for dedicated pubs.
- Reservations: For smaller, popular pubs, reservations aren’t usually necessary unless you’re a large group or visiting during a special event. For pubs offering full dining, it’s always a good idea to book, especially on weekend evenings.
- Language: While English is spoken in many tourist-friendly pubs, knowing a few basic French phrases like ‘Bonjour,’ ‘Merci,’ and ‘Une bière, s’il vous plaît’ (A beer, please) will always be appreciated.
- Payment: Most pubs accept credit cards, but it’s always wise to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases or tips, though tipping culture is less pronounced than in some other countries.
- Exploring Local Breweries: If you’re deeply interested in the local craft beer scene, look out for breweries in and around Tours. Some might offer tours or have their own tasting rooms. For a broader understanding of the craft beer world, resources like Dropt.beer’s blog can offer fascinating articles and trends.
- Using Dropt.beer: While Dropt.beer focuses on making craft beer accessible, their platform and insights can help you appreciate the nuances of different beer styles, which can enhance your experience when ordering in a Tours pub.
Conclusion: Cheers to Tours!
Tours offers a delightful surprise for anyone who appreciates a good pub. From the lively atmosphere of O’Malleys to the authentic charm of Le P’tit Bar and the culinary delights of Le Bistrot des Halles, there’s a pub here to suit every mood and preference. So, next time you find yourself in this beautiful corner of France, venture beyond the châteaux and delve into the local pub scene. You might just discover your new favorite spot. Santé!
