Savoring The Charm of Rotisserie Henri IV

Rotisserie Henri IV located in the center of Aÿ-Champagne, France, is truly a gem that I absolutely loved discovering. From the moment I stepped inside, I felt warmly welcomed by the cozy, art nouveau blended with French elegance charm of the place. It’s the kind of spot that makes you feel like you’re visiting a good friend’s home—comfortable, inviting, and full of character.

The restaurant’s name pays homage to King Henry IV, often called "Good King Henry", was deeply connected to the village of Aÿ-Champagne in the Champagne region of France. He was known for his love of Champagne (often drunk as a “form of medicine”) and even said he'd rather be "Lord of Aÿ" than King of France. He owned vineyards in Champagne, and it's believed he preferred the title of "Lord of the Vineyards of Aÿ" to other titles. During the Wars of Religion, he granted a truce to allow the inhabitants of Aÿ to hold their grape harvest, showing his appreciation for the local economy. 


Upon arrival I was treated to one of my favorites, Le Blanc de Blancs from Champagne Billecart-Salmon, a pure Chardonnay that embodies elegance and finesse. Delicately crafted it opens with radiant citrus and green apple notes, complemented by hints of white flowers and brioche. The mousse is finely textured, leading to a crisp, vibrant finish that lingers beautifully. A refined expression of pure Chardonnay, this Champagne exemplifies grace and sophistication.

The real star here is their rotisserie. I couldn’t resist trying the ribs, and wow, it was perfectly roasted—crispy and caramelized on the outside, unbelievably juicy on the inside. The flavors were so rich and comforting thanks to their house barbecue sauce, it felt like a hug from the culinary gods. Paired with some local wine, it made for a truly memorable meal.

What really made my experience special was the staff—they were friendly, passionate, and eager to share stories about the region and their food. It’s evident they pour love into every dish they serve.

If you’re ever in Ay, I wholeheartedly recommend stopping by Rotisserie Henri IV. It’s a delightful taste of French tradition, served with warmth and genuine care. An experience I’ll be coming back for!

Watch the Instagram Reel Savoring The Charm of Rotisserie Henri IV