Hi, we will be in the Loire Valley next month, staying outside of Amboise, travelling to Le Mans and Blois. I have the Rick Steve's book, but wanted to know of any suggestions you have on restaurants?
In addition to Rick's listings, I often find restaurants that sound promising in articles like this from the Guardian newspaper. Listings from the famous Michelin dining guide are also online, easiest to search by town instead of region.
Both of these are in Rick's book, but they are charming and full of locals as well as tourists:
Chinon: La Part des Anges
Blois: La Banquette Rouge
Chateau du Pray (hotel) has a lovely restaurant
If you are in Azay Le Rideau, I warmly recommend Cote Cour and La Credence. They are right next to each other. We had a delicious lunch at Cote Cour and delicious dinner at La Credence. Check hours for Cote Cour - in the off season they are only open for dinner a few nights a week. Have a great trip!
In the old town of Le Mans there is a fabulous restaurant called Le Perigord Gourmand. Though not the cuisine of the area, it's amazing.
In Blois there's a cute restaurant called Poivre et Sel that is just down the hill. I had an excellent foie gras salad here.