Grenoble, nestled in the heart of the French Alps, boasts a food scene that reflects its rich alpine heritage and Mediterranean influences. Here are some must-try dishes and local specialties you’ll find while exploring this charming city:

Gratin Dauphinois - **What It Is**: This dish is the pride of the Dauphiné region. Made from layers of thinly sliced potatoes baked in cream, butter, and garlic, Gratin Dauphinois is a creamy, comforting classic. - **Where to Try It**: Try this dish at traditional restaurants like *Le Gratin Dauphinois* or *Chez Marius*, where it’s often served as a side with grilled meat or sausage.

Ravioles du Royans - **What It Is**: These tiny, delicate ravioli filled with fresh cheese and herbs are another regional specialty from the nearby town of Royans. They’re usually served in a creamy sauce or baked with cheese for a truly indulgent experience. - **Where to Try It**: Head to *La Ferme à Dédé*, a cozy spot that specializes in hearty local dishes, to enjoy Ravioles du Royans in its traditional form or even baked into a gratin.

Fondue Savoyarde - **What It Is**: Fondue Savoyarde is a must when in the Alps. Made from a blend of alpine cheeses like Comté, Emmental, and Beaufort, melted with white wine and garlic, this fondue is served with cubes of crusty bread for dipping. - **Where to Try It**: Visit *Le Petit Savoyard*, a fondue haven, where you can warm up with a bubbling pot of cheese after a day on the slopes or exploring the city.

Murçon de Matheysine - **What It Is**: This is a large, flavorful pork sausage from the Matheysine plateau near Grenoble. It’s seasoned with herbs and often cooked in white wine and served with potatoes. - **Where to Try It**: Many restaurants in Grenoble feature this hearty sausage. *Le Café de la Table Ronde* serves it with a local twist, accompanied by alpine-style potatoes.

Tarte aux Noix (Walnut Tart) - **What It Is**: Grenoble is famous for its walnuts, which have earned PDO status, meaning they’re unique to this region. Tarte aux Noix is a decadent dessert made with a buttery crust, caramelized walnut filling, and sometimes a touch of honey. - **Where to Try It**: Don’t miss a slice of Tarte aux Noix at *Maison Nivon*, a beloved patisserie where you’ll find an array of walnut-based treats.

Diots au Vin Blanc (Savoie Sausages in White Wine) - **What It Is**: Diots are sausages specific to the Savoy region. These are often simmered in white wine with onions and herbs, resulting in a rich, flavorful dish that’s perfect for colder weather. - **Where to Try It**: Check out *La Casserole*, a cozy bistro that serves traditional mountain cuisine, including Diots au Vin Blanc, often with a side of cheesy polenta or potato gratin.

Local Cheeses - **What It Is**: Grenoble’s proximity to the mountains means it’s in prime cheese country. Some local cheeses include **Bleu du Vercors-Sassenage** (a creamy blue cheese with a mild flavor), **Saint-Marcellin** (a soft, creamy cow's milk cheese), and **Tomme de Savoie**. - **Where to Try It**: Stop by *Les Alpages*, a renowned cheese shop, to sample and purchase local varieties. Many restaurants also offer cheese boards featuring regional selections.

Tourtons - **What It Is**: Originally from the Champsaur valley, these crispy, fried dumplings are filled with ingredients like potatoes, cheese, spinach, or even sweet fillings like apple and jam. - **Where to Try It**: Try these at *Le Palais des Tourtons*, where you’ll find a variety of both savory and sweet options, perfect as a snack or a side dish.

Caillette - **What It Is**: A specialty from the Rhône-Alpes region, Caillette is a type of meatball made with pork, herbs, and sometimes leafy greens like spinach. It’s typically served cold as a starter or warm with potatoes. - **Where to Try It**: Find this dish at traditional eateries such as *Chez Le Pèr’Gras*, which offers a rustic alpine ambiance and local cuisine.

Raclette - **What It Is**: This is another alpine cheese dish, made by heating half a wheel of cheese and scraping the melted portion over potatoes, meats, and pickles. - **Where to Try It**: Head to *La Fondue* for a classic Raclette experience with all the fixings.

From savory gratins to sweet walnut desserts, Grenoble’s cuisine is deeply rooted in the mountains and traditions of the Dauphiné region, offering a cozy, rustic dining experience with plenty of alpine warmth.