Au Cheval Blanc

Set on one of Sion's Old Town cobblestone streets, this congenial bistro is bustling around noon, when locals take their midday meal accompanied by a glass of Dôle a Pinot Noir and Gamay blend unique to Valais or bière valaisanne.

Top billing on the menu goes to Valais beef and seafood, but traditional dishes such as civet de chevreuil venison stew with Spätzle may appear during hunting season.

For dessert, try wonderfully aromatic Mara strawberries in season or the lemon tart served on Friday and Saturday. This is a great place to sample Valais wines; there is a nice selection served by the glass.