Why Menton’s Lemons Are the Unsung Heroes of the Riviera

You've got to check out Menton's famous lemons! Their festival is pure magic, and you'll discover flavors that are simply unforgettable.

The Unexpected Star: Menton’s Lemon

When you think of the French Riviera, glamour and beaches often come to mind. But let me tell you, the real star here is the lemon—specifically, the Menton lemon. Each year, during the Fête du Citron, this fruit takes center stage in an incredible celebration from February 15 to March 2. Picture this: vibrant floats adorned with thousands of lemons and oranges parading through the charming town of Menton. It’s not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a sensory delight!

I had my first taste of this juicy fruit right off the tree during one of my visits. The thrill of savoring its zest while surrounded by towering lemon trees was magical. The locals’ passion for their produce is contagious, making every bite feel like a piece of history.

A Journey Through Time: The Legacy of Citrus Cultivation

The history of citrus in Menton dates back to the Grimaldi princes in Monaco during the late 15th century. It was fascinating listening to Laurent Gannac, a dedicated lemon grower, explain how this region became synonymous with high-quality citrus fruits. What struck me most was his description of past centuries when ships would pass by and witness “forests” of lemons growing along the coast.

But it wasn’t always smooth sailing for these growers. As tourism boomed in the last century, agricultural space dwindled. Yet, thanks to passionate farmers like Laurent and his son Adrien, there has been a renaissance in lemon cultivation since the ’90s—a true comeback story! In 2015, they achieved IGP status, solidifying their place in both culinary and cultural heritage.

From Orchard to Plate: Culinary Delights Await

You might be wondering what makes these lemons so special? Their elliptical shape, thick skin rich in essential oils, and sweet pulp set them apart from any ordinary lemon you’ve ever tasted. I couldn’t resist sampling some fresh slices directly from Laurent’s orchard—it was a game-changer!

Restaurants throughout Menton embrace these lemons with open arms. At Mirazur—a three-Michelin-star restaurant—you can indulge in their Carnaval des Agrumes menu during the festival featuring six stunning dishes for €350. If that feels a bit steep, don’t worry! You can grab a refreshing Pizza Citron at Pecora Negra or try delightful lemon-infused dishes at local eateries that showcase this versatile ingredient.

Engaging with Local Producers: A Unique Experience

During my visit to Menton, I made it a point to explore local artisan markets where producers proudly showcased their lemon products—jams, oils, even craft beers! Visiting places like Maison Herbin for jams or Huilerie Saint-Michel for specialty oils felt like stepping into a food lover’s paradise.

What really struck me was how each product tells a story—from traditional recipes passed down through generations to modern interpretations reflecting local culture.

FAQs About The Fête du Citron and More!

What is Fête du Citron?

It’s an annual festival celebrating Menton’s unique lemons with parades and artistic displays using citrus fruits!

When does it take place?

The festival runs from February 15th to March 2nd every year.

Can I buy fresh lemons?

Absolutely! You can find them at local markets or directly from growers around Menton.

Is there more than just lemons?

Yes! You’ll find various citrus fruits celebrated throughout the festival as well as unique culinary creations made from them.

Photo by Sonika Agarwal on Unsplash