Hidden gastronomic gems among france's 14,500 pmu bars feature in new guide

'THERE IS SUCH A VARIETY WE DECIDED IT WAS TIME TO RAISE THEIR PROFILE,' SAYS AUTHOR A guide to the 100 best PMU bars in France has been issued by the betting organisation – with

help from a food guide website.  PMU bars are found all over the country but enjoy a mixed reputation. They have also suffered as shops increasingly leave town centres, taking with them

clients who would regularly pop into the bars.  PMU’s Timoti Auscher, who managed the guide’s publication, told The Connexion: “In fact, the PMU bar is often the only commercial business

left in many villages, providing a place where people can meet in a convivial atmosphere.  “There is such a variety of PMU bars in France that we decided it was time to raise their profile,

and a good way of doing this was to have this guide of some of the exceptional ones.”  The PMU has a presence in 14,500 bars in the country, which account for 85% of the off-course

horseracing betting in France.  The remaining 15% is done online. Guide selection criteria focused on factors such as the bar’s location, food, and the welcome provided by staff and the

owner.  “In terms of location, we were spoilt for choice. We have some on the beach and others in quaint mountain villages in the stunning countryside in Corsica,” said Mr Auscher.  “Food is

very important too, and we found some incredible bars, mostly offering bistro-type menus, which are very good value for money. “However, there were some stand-outs, including one bar with

freshly-caught sea urchins on the menu.” The final criterion was on the atmosphere of the bar and the welcome provided by staff. “It’s a subjective decision but also very important. We have

all been in bars where the personality of the owner or staff has made the experience a memorable one.” The guide was prepared with a company called Editions Fooding, which has been going for

20 years and specialises in eateries not likely to be featured in Michelin guides. The guide is on sale in bookshops.