Gloucester Rugby players eat frogs' legs
Rugby star and restaurateur Olivier Azam treated his team mates to a special meal.
The Gloucester players were treated to an afternoon of French fine dining at Armagnac, in Cheltenham.
Head chef Dan Richards cooked up a storm including snails and frogs’ legs as part of a special bonding session organised by the hooker.
Main course was a choice of braised pig cheek with pomme puree and winter vegetables, or chicken stuffed with pine nuts, pancetta and basil with fondant potato.
Dessert was either classic creme brulee or a selection of French regional cheeses.
Olivier said: “It went very well. It was supposed to be a traditional bonding session between team mates and a chance for us to do something away from the training pitch.
“Some of them, especially the younger ones, had never tried snails or frogs’ legs before.
“I think most of them quite liked it, which was good.
“It was good to relax and enjoy ourselves. I think everyone had a good time.”
Olivier grew up on a farm close to the Pyrenees in France and this has influenced the type of food and produce used in his Montpellier-based restaurant.
Katie Azam, Olivier’s wife, said: “It’s great for them to come together like this. We thought it would be really nice for them to try some food they may not have had before.”
12 Comments
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by Peter, Cheltenham
Wednesday, February 10 2010, 7:50AM
“Matt H, are you really a moron?. Not a good advert for rugby supporters are you.”
by Benny A, Longlevens
Tuesday, February 09 2010, 8:44PM
“My Fiance and I eat out several times a week and I must say that the food and expiriance that is recieved at Armagnac is second to none. I have eaten at mitchellin star restaurants and have always been left a little disappointed by the portions. Armagnac seems to have the balance of quality and value down to a fine art. The welcome from Mr and Mrs Azam really shows the passion for their eatery.”
by Albert Von Hinckleberg, Lampoon
Tuesday, February 09 2010, 8:20PM
“both excellent eateries in conclusion!”
by Rob, Abbeymead
Tuesday, February 09 2010, 8:02PM
“When it comes to the food, I think the Armagnac pips the Daffodil.
The Daffodil just has a great venue which makes it probably a better overall experience, but not on food in my humble opinion.”
by ExElverEater, The Real Frozen North
Tuesday, February 09 2010, 5:50PM
“Frogs legs and Snails! Give me a good feed of Elvers and a pint of Strongbow any day.”
by Albert Gregory Fairweather, Gash
Tuesday, February 09 2010, 3:42PM
“Rob, it's got nothing on the Daffodil!”
by rarebit, Gloucester
Tuesday, February 09 2010, 12:48PM
“Mmmmm frogs legs are so good - just might have to hop over there soon and try it out!”
by R Slicker, Huntley
Tuesday, February 09 2010, 12:34PM
“How Gloucester rugby have been playing this season,i think they have all got Frogs legs.”
by Sam, Cheltenham
Tuesday, February 09 2010, 11:49AM
“Matt H, that was a bit harsh.
"Rugby players go out for dinner" is hardly news worthy.
All Peter was pointing out was just that, he wasn't advocating going into Armagnac and being agressive, so why twist his words?”
by captain catt, seamen's mission
Tuesday, February 09 2010, 10:27AM
“Just make sure French Rugby players don't get a taste for Roast Beef or we will be in trouble!”