Best restaurants in Monte Carlo

Le Louis XV - Alain Ducasse à l'Hôtel de Paris

★★★ Michelin€€€€Mediterranean Cuisine, Modern Cuisine

It is difficult to present the Louis XV without mentioning Alain Ducasse. You need a raft of superlatives to describe his impact. This native of Orthez (in southwest France) with an enduring love for the Mediterranean is a brilliant chef and businessman. Now a citizen of Monaco, he also heads up an empire of over 30 establishments with a presence on every continent. He was just 33 years old when he was awarded three stars at the Louis XV after reaching an astonishing standard. His famous vegetable-based "Jardins de Provence" set menu, which launched here in Monaco on 27 May 1987, has been one

Mirazur

★★★ Michelin€€€€Creative

Argentine chef Mauro Colagreco has taken up residence on the Italian border, between the mountains and the sea, in a restaurant boasting mesmerising views of the Mediterranean. His culinary creations now reflect the lunar calendar, with ingredients being gathered and dishes being concocted in accordance with the phases of the moon – an ancient practice revived by followers of biodynamic agriculture. He harvests his plants at peak ripeness to create daily alternating set menus based on realms of nature such as "flowers", "fruit", "leaves" and "roots". This exacting philosophy allows the chef to

L'Abysse Monte-Carlo

★★ Michelin€€€€Japanese

Chef Yannick Alléno has implemented the magic formula of his sushi counter – which has already proved to be a hit – in this luxury hotel. In the erstwhile restaurant area of Le Vistamar, the completely modernised dining room (20 covers) and the light wood counter (10 seats) are wholly done out in white tones, with pale pink seats providing pops of colour. The master sushi chef prepares to order delicate compositions and superb sushi, and Yannick Alléno's personal touch makes itself felt in the original creations of highly elegant sauces and jus. A high-calibre culinary offering inspired by a d

Les Ambassadeurs by Christophe Cussac

★★ Michelin€€€€Mediterranean Cuisine

The Métropole Monte Carlo Hotel, an iconic Belle Epoque extravaganza (1886), has been entirely revamped by Jacques Garcia, including the luxurious restaurant that sports the graphic palette so dear to the interior designer (bronze, ivory, warm yellow and gold). At the helm, virtuoso chef Christophe Cussac (former disciple of Joël Robuchon) consummately slaloms between a pure-bred Gallic culinary line-up and more modern recipes, all of which with the Mediterranean as a common thread. High-flying, meticulous cuisine, expert seasoning, cooking and plating: lobster, tarragon, spinach and spianata

Blue Bay Marcel Ravin

★★ Michelin€€€€Creative

After moving from Martinique to Monaco and from Alsace to Belgium, Marcel Ravin, who exhibits a distinct culinary personality, signs off on creative cuisine that transports us to the West Indies. With flawless technical prowess (superb sauces), he recounts his personal history, including his happy youth spent in Martinique. He references the dishes cooked by his grandmother (calalou, blaff, "next day's bread"), which he reinterprets with panache, incorporating the fine ingredients of these parts: poultry and veal from Piedmont, fish from the Mediterranean, vegetables and aromatic herbs from th

La Chèvre d'Or

★★ Michelin€€€€Creative

Château de la Chèvre d'Or boasts an exceptional location: Perched high up on the flank of a rocky hillside in a medieval village, it commands jaw-dropping views of the Riviera hinterland to the rear and of the sparkling Mediterranean Sea to the fore. After feasting your eyes on your surroundings, it's time to sit down to dinner, courtesy of the chef and his brigade, which includes talented pastry chef Florent Margaillan. Previously chef of Granite, Tom Meyer, also a Meilleur Ouvrier de France, has replaced Arnaud Faye here. He demonstrates the solid qualities for which he is already renowned:

Flaveur

★★ Michelin€€€€fine_dining, french

The Tourteaux brothers, Gaël and Mickaël, are inseparable. Not only did they attend the same hotel school in Nice (and sit exams in the same room) and both train at the Negresco during Alain Llorca's time there, but they also share the same motivation to run their own place, delivering good, honest, tasty fare. The result of this fraternal alliance is Flaveur, a project into which they ploughed all their energy to the point of receiving a Michelin star in 2011, and a second one in 2018.How might the "Tourteaux touch" be summed up? A certain kind of confidence, boldness and measured risk-taking

La Villa Archange

★★ Michelin€€€€Modern Cuisine

This handsome 18C provençal villa is perched up in the hills above Cannes. Take a seat in one of the small cosy lounges to sample chef Bruno Oger's cuisine. Breton by birth, he has adopted the Mediterranean as his home, concocting inspired seafood dishes drawn from Brittany and the French Riviera… Abalone from the island of Groix in a parsley herb sauce; roast turbot, celery, shallots and walnuts; a lemon-flavoured praliné and buckwheat dessert. His braised pork cheeks and razor clams with a black pudding tartlet illustrate his knack for meat dishes. A table d'hôte in the kitchen provides the

Pavyllon Monte-Carlo, un restaurant de Yannick Alléno

★ Michelin€€€€Modern Cuisine, Creative

Yannick Alleno’s gourmet counter food, after finding favour with Parisian city slickers, has set up shop in the Hermitage Hotel in Monte Carlo with the same sure-fire recipes. Namely, gourmet fare that boldly asserts a distinctive unorthodox culinary identity. The open kitchen faces the terrace and the impressive tasting counter in metallic wood, in an elegant blue colour scheme that echoes the nearby sea. In terms of food, the accent is on the seasons and wellbeing, anchored in plants, seafood and low-sugar desserts. In fine weather, meals are served on the Mediterranean garden patio commandi

Le Grill

★ Michelin€€€€Classic Cuisine

On the rooftop of the iconic Hôtel de Paris, Le Grill and its sliding roof has lost neither its mythical aura nor its breathtaking view! Chef Dominique Lory painstakingly works with first-class, bountiful local produce, adding a whole new high-flying dimension to barbecue cooking along the way. Examples include marinated gamberoni from San Remo packed with briny aromas, rack of lamb in savory or young free-range chicken steeped in Provençal aromas… The establishment upholds the venerable culinary art of soufflés with flair, illustrated by their hot raspberry and pistachio soufflé - to die for!

La Table d'Antonio Salvatore au Rampoldi

★ Michelin€€€€Italian, Creative

Born in the southern Italian region of Basilicata, chef Antonio Salvatore has travelled incessantly, thanks to his profession: Spain, England and Russia – where he met the new owner of Rampoldi. In the former cigar lounge, he has created a tailor-made setting (only five tables), where he applies himself with unfailing rigour to serving top-notch contemporary Italian cuisine that is both tasty and precise. The sourcing – no surprise here – cannot be faulted: he draws on small-scale producers around Menton and San Remo, but certain produce is also imported from the south of Italy. A few examples

Robuchon Monaco

★ Michelin€€€€Modern Cuisine

On an esplanade overlooking Boulevard du Larvotto and the Japanese Garden, this restaurant pays tribute to the great French chef. Behind a swanky black façade, a rattan-furnished terrace leads into a cosy dining area with green-upholstered banquettes and chairs and a marble floor. While the famous Robuchon mashed potato is served with each main course, the master’s influence remains discreet. The à la carte lineup stars pedigree Gallic classics with a scattering of Mediterranean notes: carpaccio of greater amberjack in citrus fruit and pink berries, salt crusted seabass, free-range poultry and

Elsa Marcel Ravin

★ Michelin€€€€Mediterranean Cuisine

Established in the Monte Carlo Beach, a magnificent 1930s luxury hotel, revamped by designer India Mahdavi in a subtle Riviera vein, the culinary lineup is the work of executive chef Marcel Ravin (two stars at the Blue Bay Marcel Ravin). Talented, Italian-born chef Domenico D’Antonio sets the seafood score to music, calling upon first-class produce from the Mediterranean along the way: spider crab, white asparagus, yuzu, kiwi and fennel; John Dory, sorrel sabayon, ravioli stuffed with leeks and shellfish. Everything serves a purpose in this repertory which aims to highlight each ingredient cou

La Table du Cap Estel

★ Michelin€€€€Modern Cuisine

Perched atop the rocky cliffside on an enchanting peninsula between Nice and Monaco, this hotel is one of the most secluded and exclusive spots on the Côte d'Azur. Access is via a discreet gate, then a winding path that seems to draw you away from the world. Dining on the terrace here, lulled by the swaying palms of a Mediterranean garden, feels like a rare privilege. Kevin Garcia, former executive chef for Frédéric Anton at Le Jules Verne enhances the blissful experience with his homage to seafood, garden herbs and top-quality locally grown vegetables. His straightforward dishes are forthrigh

Château Eza

★ Michelin€€€€Modern Cuisine

In this magical setting, the Mediterranean Sea reveals itself in all its splendour from the terrace, which feels as if it is suspended between sky and earth. Book early to secure the best spots! But the view does not eclipse the cuisine of Justin Schmitt. No stranger to prestigious kitchens, this veteran chef is a dab hand at cooking up precise modern cuisine with plenty of personality eg green asparagus from Provence with fresh goat's cheese ice cream and elderflower, and pearlescent cod wrapped in seaweed. The desserts are on a par – think velvety matcha rice pudding and tarragon sorbet.

Le Restaurant des Rois - La Réserve de Beaulieu

★ Michelin€€€€Modern Cuisine

Dating back to 1880 and later extended in a Renaissance Florentine style, this is one of the most opulent luxury hotels on the French Riviera. Since 1900 it has been playing host to monarchs and Hollywood stars, from Rita Hayworth to Frank Sinatra. Dining on the terrace facing the Mediterranean is a magical experience. At the helm is chef Julien Roucheteau, straight from Paris (Table du Lancaster, Scène Thélème). He remains loyal to the establishment's heritage, but adds his signature graphic presentations to dishes characterised by consummate craftsmanship. Each has its own specific theme: fr

Le Cap

★ Michelin€€€€french

Make a beeline for the iconic early-20C Grand-Hôtel du Cap Ferrat. The swish hotel, a favourite with international VIPs, stands at the tip of an exclusive peninsula overlooking the Mediterranean and hidden from view by lush gardens. You have a choice between a stunning dining room or an exquisite terrace shaded by tall Aleppo pines. At the helm of the kitchen, chef Yoric Tièche (born in Aix-en-Provence) finds his inspiration in Provence’s culinary roots, creating superb dishes out of Mediterranean produce. Highlights include red mullet lacquered in sweet harissa, served with a crunchy socca of

🕐 Tu-Sa 19:30-21:30

Épicentre

★ Michelin€€€Modern Cuisine

Just a few streets from where he grew up, Selim M'Nasri is thriving in this intimate, harmonious space, whose natural materials and contemporary furnishings are enhanced by soft lighting. Having trained for eight years under Marcel Ravin (Monaco’s Blue Bay), at whose side he rose through the ranks from commis to sous-chef, he embraces the influence of his mentor. All the tables face the open kitchen, where the chef crafts an immersive dining experience, including interactions at the counter, during which diners discover the spices that form the backbone to their meal – Sansho, Timut, green car

Les Agitateurs

★ Michelin€€€€Creative

Ready to surprise and disconcert your tastebuds? Then head to this smart little bistro in the capable hands of Samuel Victori (former second chef of Passage 53). The chef devotes himself body and soul to devising flawlessly cooked and subtly seasoned dishes, rich in texture, whose intricacies he adores explaining to diners. He works solely with local suppliers, creating unusual, vibrant, even witty recipes that disrupt and whose names tickle our curiosity. A standout: “What the sea gave us” - a sublime fillet of poached seabass, whose delicate pearlescent flesh is flanked with kochihikari rice

Le Bistrot de Jan

★ Michelin€€€€south_african, fine_dining

Next door to its MICHELIN-starred counterpart JAN, the laid-back yet elegant little brother has plenty of panache. With emerald-green walls and floors, crystal chandeliers, exposed stone pillars and floral arrangements, a bistro atmosphere reigns, yes, but a glamorous and refined one! The food strikes a nice balance between classic French bistro dishes – Rossini tournedos, sole meunière, tarte Tatin – and more personal influences. Chef Jan Hendrik, originally from South Africa, mischievously slips in a few childhood memories, such as lentil bobotie and malva pudding with house-made vanilla ice

ONICE

★ Michelin€€€€Modern Cuisine

Oh Nice, how your flavours captivate! Lorenzo Ragni and Florencia Montes are the endearing and talented Italo-Argentinian couple at the helm of this intimate address in the antiques quarter. After an international career in Michelin-starred restaurants, they met at Mauro Colagreco's Mirazur. Today, they jointly sign a festival of crisp, gutsy dishes that reflect the seasons and the local catch, together with the occasional striking, and most welcome, flavour combination: tagliatelle of cuttlefish, lemon and citron dressing; seabass paired with an emulsion of champagne and cockles; bloody orang

🕐 Mo-Tu off;We-Fr 19:30-24:00;Sa-Su 12:30-16:00, 19:30-24:00

L'Aromate

★ Michelin€€€€Modern Cuisine

This attractive restaurant is idyllically located near Place Masséna in the heart of Nice. The contemporary decor sports a black, white and gold colour scheme, untreated materials such as wood and granite and a glazed kitchen overlooking the dining room. The scene is set for chef, Mickaël Gracieux, armed with an iron-clad CV (Oustau de Baumanière, Plaza Athénée, Le Bristol, Louis XV, etc), to craft modern, creative and elegantly presented cuisine using top-quality produce from Nice and the Mediterranean (San Remo prawns, trumpet courgettes, local green crab, squid and citrus fruits, etc). A ch

🕐 Tu-Fr 19:00-22:00; Sa 19:00-23:00

Racines - Bruno Cirino

★ Michelin€€€Vegetarian, Mediterranean Cuisine

Bruno Cirino and his faithful right-hand man, José Vidal, regale diners with a bargain-priced single set menu composed entirely of local organic or sustainably grown fruit and vegetables in their small eatery. They propose "kitchen garden cuisine" using ingredients that are picked only when perfectly ripe. Their talented craftsmanship shines the spotlight on characteristic Mediterranean produce, like garlic, olive oil and basil. Dig into a soup of red spring onions and basil; purple artichoke with a cheesy emulsion and grilled spiny artichoke; compressed root vegetables à la “César Baldaccini”

Le Chantecler

★ Michelin€€€€Modern Cuisine

Le Negresco regally occupies its seafront location on Nice’s iconic Promenade des Anglais. "MOF" 2015, Virginie Basselot, is at the helm of its fine dining restaurant, Le Chantecler. In this swanky setting, the Normandy-born chef makes no secret of her ambition to craft a creative, modern score using first-class ingredients, cherry-picked from local artisans with whom she has forged strong ties. Each dish tells a story of purity and simplicity, illustrated by Mediterranean monkfish in a lemon balm and Var lemon-laced butter, or red mullet with combava-flavoured cabbage purée and a seasoning ma

🕐 Mo,Tu off; We-Su 19:00-22:00

Casa Buono

★ Michelin€€€€Country cooking, Creative

This unexpected Ligurian gem is situated in Trucco, a small village in the Val Roia just inland from Ventimiglia. There’s no à la carte here, just the “Orto e Mare” tasting menu to which guests can also add a meat dish and a selection of cheeses from the well-stocked cheese trolley. Although the dishes are occasionally influenced by Ligurian traditions, they are for the most part creative, surprising and beautifully prepared. Given its success, the restaurant has recently been extended while at the same time retaining its simple, colourful and welcoming ambience. The high-quality service comes

La Table de Pierre

★ Michelin€€€€Mediterranean Cuisine

Le Mas de Pierre, a luxurious hotel in immaculate surroundings, boasts a large ornamental garden, olive trees and a vegetable garden. Comfortably seated in the conservatory, which can be fully opened up and is set amid greenery, diners can enjoy an elegant setting and peaceful atmosphere... and contemporary, colourful, healthy and light cuisine. Sprinkled with flowers and aromatic plants from the garden, the unique menu reveals a delightful culinary personality, natural and very plant-based. The presentation is refined, and a lot of thought has gone into the way the menu unfolds. At Dolce Prov

Alain Llorca

★ Michelin€€€€Provençal

Alain Llorca, an emblematic figure of French Riviera cuisine, boasts a star-studded career that encompasses the mythical luxury Negresco Hotel and the Moulin de Mougins. In his farmhouse in La Colle-sur-Loup, whose terrace commands a jaw-dropping view of Saint Paul de Vence, this virtuoso chef celebrates the Mediterranean. The result is steeped in subtle, delicate, spot-on notes: fish from small boats, caponata and lightly seared green chard with a spicy sauce; roast veal with cream of tuna, burrata and sage ravioli; warm chocolate tart and citrus-laced sorbet.

Les Terraillers

★ Michelin€€€€Modern Cuisine

Between Antibes and Cagnes-sur-Mer, this village owes its fame to its art glassware and its pottery, thanks to a soil rich in clay. In fact, Michaël Fulci’s parents opened their restaurant in a former potter’s studio, the kiln of which is now a delightfully snug lounge! In fine weather, the shaded trellis of the alfresco patio attracts diners like bees to honey… Michaël Fulci is a bona fide Mediterranean chef, who learned the ropes with legends such as Alain Ducasse and Roger Vergé, no less… The menu naturally enough overflows with fruit and veg from local markets, from courgette flowers and M

La Passagère - Hôtel Belles Rives

★ Michelin€€€€Creative

The first thing to strike guests in this hotel, where Zelda and F. Scott Fitzgerald's tumultuous romance played out in the 1920s, is its jaw-dropping location. It's not easy for a chef to make his mark in such a setting, but Aurélien Véquaud does just that. In a fine dining menu that, naturally, embraces the Mediterranean (think superb little tunny, semi-confit tomatoes and rocket vinaigrette), the chef's origins – the Vendée in western France – still shine through on each plate. Unpasteurised cream jazzes up the crab in the signature dish (a soft esquinado cannelloni, verbena foam and fennel)

Les Pêcheurs

★ Michelin€€€€Mediterranean Cuisine

Les Pêcheurs boasts a delightful setting by the water's edge; slightly elevated, it boasts a stunning view of the Îles de Lérins and the foothills of the Esterel mountains. Trained at this very restaurant, Nice-born chef Nicolas Rondelli went on to work in the kitchens of Alain Llorca, Michel Del Burgo, Le Negresco and Jacques Chibois. His contemporary, seasonally inspired cuisine teems with the flavours of the South of France and showcases Mediterranean fish such as red mullet, John Dory, turbot and sea bass, alongside superb meat: pigeon, Sisteron lamb and free-range veal. Whatever he cooks,

Louroc - Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc

★ Michelin€€€€Mediterranean Cuisine

The restaurant of this mythical luxury hotel ticks all the boxes. It combines attentive service, tableware produced for the most part by Provençal artisans, a breathtaking view of the Mediterranean, and the talents of chef Sébastien Broda. The pantry abounds with vegetables sourced exclusively from local market gardeners, as well as fish from small-scale fisheries and bespoke meats. This Mediterranean cuisine is exemplified by coherent dishes.

Auberge de la Roche

★ Michelin€€€€Modern Cuisine

A quintessential French country inn in the heart of the Mercantour National Park. Winter dining is by the fireside beneath timber rafters, while the summer terrace frames a breathtaking view of the surrounding peaks. The creative, veggie-centric score showcases premium local produce, including from the establishment’s own garden. Chef Louis-Philippe Riel makes everything from scratch (cured meat, pasta, bread, ice cream) and exalts the purity of raw ingredients with lashings of love. His carte blanche menu changes daily according to availability: fresh green peas with shavings of artichoke, al

Bessem

★ Michelin€€€€Mediterranean Cuisine

For a long time, chef Bessem Ben Abdallah worked in the shadow of great chefs (eg Michel Del Burgo, Marc Meneau and Pierre Gagnaire). In this town house with its terrace shaded by plane trees and a fountain, he gets to give full rein to his talent. He brings a deft touch to a delicate Mediterranean brand of cuisine that is personal to him, as in his catch of the day, artichoke purée, spinach with parmesan, courgettes, green beans, a yuzu-kombava broth, tagetes and lovage. He is assisted by a talented pastry chef. It's worth noting that the chef serves his own selection of Tunisian single-estat

Equilibrio

★ Michelin€€€Ligurian, Contemporary

The young Jacopo Chieppa, captivated early on by a passion for cooking, began his career working with doughs and leavened products, before training in prestigious establishments such as Mirazur in Menton and Antica Corona Reale in Cervere. Today, in a skilfully restored former mill, he offers cooking that is playful and indulgent, contemporary in form yet rooted in classic ingredients, including those from the restaurant’s own kitchen garden adjacent to the premises. The gastronomic experience unfolds through two distinct tasting menus: Identità, which brings together the signature dishes most

Mareluna

★ Michelin€€€€french

This former 17C soap factory is now a luxury hotel with a superb terrace affording panoramic views over the Bay of Cannes, Théoule-sur-Mer, Cap d'Antibes and the Îles de Lérins. Decorated in the Mediterranean style with rattan furniture, its elegant fine dining restaurant is open for dinner only. Having trained at Le Meurice Alain Ducasse restaurant and with Ryuji Teshima at Pages, Italian chef Francesco Fezza cooks up a number of Italian and local ingredients with spirit and creativity. This modern cuisine may be unabashedly Mediterranean, but the recipes are enhanced by little Asian touches:

🕐 Tu-Sa 19:30-21:00

L'Or Bleu

★ Michelin€€€€Modern Cuisine

After stints in respected MICHELIN-starred kitchens in Switzerland and Chantilly, Alain Montigny (Meilleur Ouvrier de France 2004) is now the chef at the exquisite Tiara Miramar Beach Resort, the terrace of which commands a jaw-dropping view of the sea and the mountains of the Massif de l'Estérel. His delicious Mediterranean-inspired dishes are balanced and delicately flavoured thanks to top-quality ingredients. Superb craftsmanship is evident in his roasted langoustine with beetroot tartare and raspberry condiment, and his line-caught turbot with lemon-marinated courgette and sheep's-milk che

Sarri

★ Michelin€€€Seafood, Modern Cuisine

This fine restaurant enjoys a pleasant location in the charming Borgo Prino, a string of houses painted in typical pastel colours right in front of the sea. The legendary mildness of the Ligurian climate makes it possible to eat outdoors often, but should that not be possible the charm of the indoor dining room, an old shed furnished with excellent contemporary taste, will be anything but an afterthought. Service is elegant and impeccable, headed gracefully by hostess Alessandra. Last but not least, the cuisine of the chef-patron, as well as husband, Andrea Sarri: the extraordinary quality of

Auberge Quintessence

★ Michelin€€€Modern Cuisine

At the Col de la Couillole, a pass in the Mercantour National Park, this former refuge run by Pauline and Christophe Billau is a top destination for foodies. These two serve up a warm welcome and a single set menu that draws inspiration from the mountains and changes with the seasons. Diners can indulge in creamy local mountain nettle cappuccino, superb roasted white asparagus, whether tangy with candied citrus fruit or in a sabayon sauce, or lightly smoked Mediterranean tuna served confit-style and subtly counterbalanced by the herbal notes of oxalis. Dishes such as veal from the Plateau de L

Nazionale

★ Michelin€€€Country cooking, Modern Cuisine

Crossing the threshold of the hotel of the same name, a traditional mountain dwelling, guests are welcomed by the immediate warmth of two dining rooms: thanks not only to the crackling fireplaces, but also to the embrace of wood, the understated elegance of the interiors, and attentive service. In the kitchen, animal proteins remain central, while growing attention is given to the plant world, supported by three gardens – two of them owned – that supply much of the produce. The menu features the “HABITAT” tasting journey, more creative and devoted to local products, alongside an à la carte opt

Faventia

★ Michelin€€€€Modern Cuisine

The luxurious Terre Blanche estate is home to this restaurant that boasts an exclusive, plush, almost timeless feel and a terrace overlooking the countryside that is exquisite at sunset. Chef Quentin André, former second chef, shines the spotlight on the Var region by way of delicately crafted cuisine embodied by outstanding ingredients: baby veg from Tourves, line-caught fish from St Raphaël, Vidauban poultry, cheese from the Var, without forgetting fresh herbs from the cottage garden. This mouth-watering score is embodied by swordfish jazzed up by vibrant jus of carrots, rum and Hyères curcu

Ristorante Paolo e Barbara

★ Michelin€€€€Country cooking, Contemporary

Italian

La Palme d'Or

★ Michelin€€€€Modern Cuisine

French

Les Plaisirs

Bib Gourmand€€Regional Cuisine

This friendly family-run inn is tucked away in a village high in the hinterland of Nice. The young owner-chef, descended from a long line of restaurant owners, throws his heart and soul into preparing Provençal recipes using impeccably selected regional produce. Authentic flavours, fuss-free plating, enticing recipes and eater-friendly prices! What more do we need to say?

L'Orangerie

Bib Gourmand€€Modern Cuisine

This inconspicuous restaurant in the centre of town is actually home to a culinary powerhouse. The Japanese chef, who was sous-chef to Bruno Cirino at Hostellerie Jérôme, masterfully crafts his own addictive take on Mediterranean cuisine, putting a Japanese spin on locally sourced produce. Thanks to ultra-fresh ingredients, spot-on cooking and well-judged seasoning, everything comes together beautifully: eg artichoke hearts à la barigoule with prosciutto chips; salmon tataki with marinated vegetables, or sirloin steak with yuzu kosho. The terrace, partly covered by an awning, looks out onto a

Bistrot d'Antoine

Bib Gourmand€€regional

The lilting accent of the South of France can be detected in this bistro, where a really convivial atmosphere reigns. Things hot up in the kitchen, with delicious dishes such as old-fashioned pork casserole with creamy polenta, knife-cut beef tartare or grilled veal kidney with wholegrain mustard and baby potatoes in a parsley sauce... Crowded? Well, yes: Antoine has a huge (and well-deserved) success on his hands.

🕐 Mo-Su 12:00-14:00, 20:00-22:00

Olive & Artichaut

Bib Gourmand€€regional

Originally from Nice, the chef moved back to the region with his Breton wife after several stints abroad. He showcases local ingredients in knockout recipes, inspired by the sea and the mountains: pissaladière-style wafer-thin tart with roast black pudding, braised chuck veal with creamy chickpeas and a chocolate and hazelnut praline pie to finish.

🕐 Mo off;Tu-Sa 12:00-14:00,19:00-22:00;Su off

La Merenda

Bib Gourmand€€regional

Behind the vintage façade of this dinky restaurant, dripping in charm and simplicity, lies a genuine culinary landmark of Nice. Dominique Le Stanc rustles up nostalgic local dishes (pissaladière, tripe à la niçoise, stockfish, chard pie, lemon tart, etc.), steeped in big-boned, authentic flavours. Tightly packed tables and made-to-measure ceramic tableware amidst a profusion of eclectic works of art set the buzzy scene. N.B. no telephone – bookings are either online or in person… Cash only too.

🕐 Mo-Fr 12:00-13:45, 19:00-21:00;Sa-Su off

Chez Davia

Bib Gourmand€€Regional Cuisine

This likeable establishment, run by the same family since 1953, was founded by grandma Davia and taken over in 1985 by mum, Alda, now retired. Since 2016, Pierre Altobelli, whose impressive CV features star establishments in France and Asia, concocts tempting recipes rich in the aromas of Nice. Every detail is perfect, and the ingredients are meticulously sourced. Served in a welcoming vintage bistro décor steeped in authenticity. Heavenly!

🕐 Mo off;Tu 19:30-21:45;We-Sa 12:30-14:00, 19:30-21:45;Su 12:00-14:00, 19:30-21:45

L'Alchimie

Bib Gourmand€€Modern Cuisine

Picture a modern, buzzy hangout popular with local foodies for its sensibly priced honest food and its particularly enticing lunch menu, something of a bargain for Nice. Think pork in a tom kha kai stock, beef confit in peas and carrots or upside-down-style apple tartlet – good food that ticks all the boxes. Invariably fully booked for the first service, it is much easier to find a table come 2pm. Only open for dinner on Friday and Saturday.

🕐 Tu-Th 10:00-17:30; Fr,Sa 10:00-15:00,19:00-22:30

Café des Musiciens

Bib Gourmand€€Farm to table

Here in the Musicians' Quarter, Australian chef Christopher Edwards, who hails from Paris, devises a short menu that makes no bones about sticking strictly to market produce: autumn terrine with figs, tripe stew Niçoise-style, Perugina sausages and Sardinian fregola. These are hearty, unpretentious dishes, served in a simple setting by Charlotte (his partner), who cordially manages the dining room and handles the well-chosen selection of natural wines. Lunch is very affordable, dinner more ambitious but still reasonably priced.

🕐 Mo off;Tu-We 12:00-14:00;Th-Fr 12:00-14:00, 19:30-21:00;Sa 19:30-21:00;Su off

CASAeBOTTEGA

Bib Gourmand€€Regional Cuisine, Traditional Cuisine

An attractive restaurant situated on the charming main square of the village of Dolceacqua, with a beautiful outdoor space and views of the old Doria castle. Inside, the dining room is decorated in “shabby chic” style which gives it a friendly, welcoming and colourful atmosphere. The regional, seasonal cuisine includes standout dishes such as “brandacujun mantecato alla ponentina” (creamed salted cod), “coniglio al rossese” (rabbit in red wine) and delicious desserts.

Terme

Bib Gourmand€€Ligurian

Not far from the picturesque village of Pigna, this family-run hotel-restaurant has a simple, classic-style dining room where the main focus is on the equally simple and rustic cuisine, including the dish of goats’ meat and beans, a local speciality.

Les Dilettants

Bib Gourmand€€Modern Cuisine

Formerly a salesman for a leading pétanque brand, Thomas Filiaggi changed direction at the age of 30 to satisfy his love of cooking. He proposes an individual cuisine, largely based on fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs from his garden. A gem!

Bistrot des Anges

Bib Gourmand€€Traditional Cuisine

This brasserie, run by the team from Villa Archange, sports a modern decor, a friendly vibe and set menus inspired by sunny climes! Tuck into artichokes stuffed with egg mayo, Florentine cream and basil or veal kidneys with mushrooms. For dessert, make your choice from a wickedly tempting sweets trolley filled with treats. You'll be in seventh heaven!

Osteria Didù

Bib Gourmand€italian, regional

A small establishment in the heart of the historic centre, where simple and genuine cooking pays homage to the flavours of the sea and the Ligurian tradition. Quality ingredients, dishes executed with care and a decidedly competitive bill make it an ideal port of call for those in search of authenticity without affectation. Among the most accomplished offerings, the stoccafisso accomodato alla ligure stands out, a great classic interpreted with respect and taste.

🕐 Mo,We,Fr-Su 12:30-14:00,19:30-22:00; Tu off; Th 19:30-22:00

La Locanda del Falco

Bib Gourmand€Piedmontese, Traditional Cuisine

This is the sort of small family-run restaurant that everyone would like to have as their local, where courteous and friendly service go hand-in-hand with good traditional cuisine. Dishes such as ravioli del plin, vitello tonnato, beef tartare and veal tongue are some of the daily specials marked up on the blackboard here. The wine list comes as a pleasant surprise, with its excellent selection of labels from Piedmont and further afield.

Em Sherif

€€€€Lebanese

A welcome opportunity to celebrate the pleasures of Lebanese cuisine, the Mediterranean and, of course, the philosophy of sharing. In the kitchen, chef Yasmina Hayek (who has worked at the Institut Paul Bocuse and the restaurants of Mathieu Pacaud, Jean-François Piège and Rasmus Kofoed at Geranium in Copenhagen) skilfully juggles the traditional and the modern, in dishes such as her excellent lentil salad (addas) or her delicious aubergine fatteh with yoghurt. Aromas, colours, flavours – a culinary voyage of the senses out on the panoramic terrace or in a chic bistro-style dining area on the g

Café de Paris

€€€Traditional Cuisine

This refurbishment project is the first by renowned British architects, David Collins Studio, in Monaco and the result is spectacular! The firm has intelligently and respectfully preserved the pared-back Art deco spirit so dear to the Café de Paris’ regulars, thus creating an exquisite setting of wrought iron, mosaics and stained glass for chef Victor Marion’s new twist on brasserie classics. Egg mayonnaise with caviar, pâté en croûte, sole meunière and the iconic Crêpe Suzette (which was invented here!), flambéed at the table and served with orange zests in syrup for added decadence… Open mor

Yoshi

€€€€Japanese

Monte-Carlo is famous for its casino, its princely family, its clay tennis courts and its high-flying restaurants! That of the Hotel Métropole pays tribute to Japanese cuisine with premium ingredients and flawless technique. Aromatic soups, sushi and maki are crafted with a focus on yoshi (goodness) by chef Takeo Yamazaki, whose cuisine, which is more fusion in style than authentically Japanese, has adapted to suit his international clientele. Examples include ghindara no saiko yaki (fillet of black cod marinated and cooked in sake and wrapped in a Japanese magnolia leaf) or ebi shinjo, kombu-

La Table d'Élise

€€€Traditional Cuisine, Mediterranean Cuisine

This swish, fashionable brasserie a stone's throw from the Japanese Garden and Grimaldi Forum welcomes diners in a spacious modern interior with an open kitchen that puts on quite a show. The chef serves up hearty traditional cuisine, with flavoursome seasonal dishes based on meat and fish, bridging the gap between his native Brittany and the Mediterranean. The lunch set menu is a good deal. As for the desserts, the lemon soufflé is quite something.

Zeffirino

€€€Italian

Just a stone's throw from the Japanese Garden, this relaxed place, with its warm retro Italian chic (lamps on tables, almond green walls, cane benches and chairs) is dedicated to pasta. The central kitchen and its fresh pasta-making station take pride of place in the restaurant. The authentic Genoese pesto (basil, pine nuts, Pecorino, Parmesan, olive oil and a hint of garlic) is made here according to time-honoured tradition. The quality of every ingredient is top-notch. Here, Riccardo Giraudi, also the creator of the Beefbar brand, pays tribute to Genoese chef Zeffirino Belloni, renowned for

Song Qi

€€€Asian, Chinese

Opposite Grimaldi Forum, this swanky, gourmet Chinese restaurant has opted for premium materials and a serene atmosphere. The appetising menu offers a vast array of Chinese cuisine from Peking soup with smoked chicken to crispy dragon prawns with Chinese mustard or the classic dim sum. Bookings advisable!

Beefbar

€€€Meats and Grills

On the docks of Fontvieille Marina, this trendy "meat bar" serves quality beef (Wagyu, Black Angus and some from France) but also street food, gourmet salads and a few fish dishes. It has a trendy decor and is very popular with local diners. Check out the impressive meat maturation display cases.

Café de la Fontaine

€€Traditional Cuisine

Taken over by a duo of young professionals, Café de la Fontaine has been given a new lease of life without losing the nostalgic charm of a village café. The menu revolves around nicely crafted bistro classics: house-made country terrine seasoned with five-peppercorn mix, stuffed cabbage, onglet steak with marchand de vin sauce, pearly cod loin and petits pois à la parisienne, seasonal clafoutis.

Les Remparts

€€€€Mediterranean Cuisine

This establishment, located in the Chèvre d’Or Château, ticks all the boxes: a modern, comfortable cliffside terrace with a jaw-dropping view of the Mediterranean and Saint Jean Cap Ferrat, paired with high-flying, decadent Mediterranean fare. Ceviche of first-class fish, aloe vera jelly and a citrus-fruit dressing; grilled greater amberjack, stuffed courgette blossoms and bourride sauce, and a wickedly tempting trolley of ices and pastries to finish.

La Table de Julien

€€Mediterranean Cuisine

Supervised by chef Julien Roucheteau, this restaurant is a welcome addition to the fine dining options offered by this high-class establishment, in particular, thanks to a bargain-priced menu that changes weekly. The contemporary Mediterranean repertory takes inspiration from the local terroir – hence a crudo of marinated line-fished white tuna; stuffed provençal aubergines; melt-in-the-mouth beef stew with Swiss chard and house gnocchis. You might also like to sample their bouillabaisse (Fri and Sat), traditional octopus dishes from the Mediterranean or rockfish soup. Diners are seated in a b

So'Mets

€€Traditional Cuisine, Seasonal Cuisine

After honing her skills in top restaurants (including La Vague d’Or), chef Anne-Sophie Sabini has struck out on her own in this modern, colourful gastropub, flanked by a lovely terrace. She has devised a concise menu that changes monthly, in which she adds a feminine, modern touch to Gallic standards: cream of green peas with a 64° poached egg, coppa, crunchy croutons and organic olive oil from Provence; roast squid and black pudding, purée of carrots, citrus-flavoured dressing; sorbet of Beaulieu mandarin, anis-flavoured biscuit, praline and drizzled citrus fruit and bergamot … Slick service,

La Table du Royal

€€€€Mediterranean Cuisine

Located at the entrance to the Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat peninsula, looking out over the Baie des Fourmis, the Hotel Royal Riviera gracefully cultivates the timeless elegance of the Riviera. Its refined terrace, fringed by greenery, is conducive to a peaceful dinner in an intimate setting. In the kitchen, Geoffroy Szamburski composes a generous Mediterranean menu that is mindful of short supply chains: San Remo gamberoni, vegetables from Ventimiglia, fish from local small-scale fisheries… A fine tribute to ingredients from the region. To finish, Lucas Simoncini serves up an enchantingly fresh citr

Casa Fuego

€€Grills, Argentinian

Just opposite Mauro Colagreco's flagship restaurant, this is the Italian-Argentine chef's hacienda-style Argentinian grill, which has a large covered terrace overlooking the sea, the town and the harbour. You are completely transported by this typically Argentine open-flame cooking, which here is well executed and so delicious, with its smoky aromas: empanadas, octopus a la plancha, beef picanha to share, dulce de leche flan. A masterclass in gourmet conviviality.

La Mère Germaine

€€€Seafood

Jean Cocteau used to eat at this local institution, which has been serving fresh fish and seafood since 1938. It is lovely just to sit on the terrace and gaze out over the harbour!

Père & Fils Raingeard

€€Mediterranean Cuisine

Chef Patrick Raingeard has created a warm, welcoming atmosphere in his reasonably priced restaurant in the Nice hinterland. Supported by his son Édouard, who presides front of house and is in charge of wine, he meticulously crafts seasonal cuisine. His signature dish is a mainstay on the menu: chicken "brandade" with the bird's thighs confit and topped with mashed potatoes. The lovely terrace in the shade of the plane trees exudes a sense of joie de vivre.

La Réserve de Nice

€€€€Modern Cuisine

Elegant, Art Deco cruise liner - inspired decor. Enjoy refined cuisine and superb views of the Bay of Angels and the Estérel mountains.

Le Cèdre

€€lebanese

The many lovers of Lebanese cuisine will not want to miss out on this restaurant nestled next to the exhibition centre (Palais des Expositions). The culinary repertoire of the "Land of the Cedars" is made with excellent fresh, sun-ripened produce – as in the tabbouleh (parsley, juicy tomatoes, red onion and lemon juice) – and impeccable technical skill, as exemplified by the wonderfully creamy baba ganoush with its delicious smoky aubergine flavour. For dessert, the pistachio and almond pastries, which are of course made in-house, are best enjoyed with a mint tea. Don't hesitate to come with f

🕐 Su,Mo off; Tu-Th 12:00-14:00,19:00-22:00; Fr 12:00-14:00,19:00-23:00; Sa 19:00-23:00

Pirouette

€€€Modern Cuisine

This intimate bistro was a grocery shop in a former life. Opened by the team behind Nice restaurant Les Agitateurs, this place serves up seasonal and fresh dishes playfully drawing inspiration from both classic and more exotic dishes: lamb in lettuce-leaf "tacos", "River Kwai" ravioli or, a classic if ever there was one, pigeon pithiviers and foie gras… On this short menu, most dishes are designed for sharing (for two people), to a background of trendy music. The "living" wine list also embraces the orange wine craze.

Magma

€€€Asian, Fusion

Almost directly opposite their original restaurant, the pair behind Les Agitateurs have opened this tiny place centred on an open kitchen and done out in a palette evoking lava stone and magma. The culinary concept, as enticing and colourful as the dining room is dark and brooding, involves reimagining Mediterranean produce through the prism of Asian traditions with all their spices, chilli and freshness. They pull it off, with pork ravioli in a phở-style beef broth with tenderstem broccoli and fresh herbs; duck breast, marinated then grilled, with a spring onion-infused jus, spring rolls of c

MARMAR

€€Mediterranean Cuisine

In a side street set back from the port, chef Claudio Marsico, who hails from southern Italy, and Jacopo Marini, a sommelier from Lombardy, have transformed a former burger joint into this charming, bright and welcoming Mediterranean restaurant. The fresh, spontaneous cuisine, with spicy notes and hits of citrus flavour, takes daily inspiration from the neighbouring Saleya Market: fried artichokes, lemon vinaigrette and carrot ketchup; duckling fillet, sweet potato, leeks sautéed in butter and white wine. A constantly evolving European wine list completes this pleasant culinary interlude.

Le Socle

€€Modern Cuisine

Set back from Place Garibaldi, this little bistro has found its place on Nice's restaurant scene. It is run by a team of two chefs who have experience working in top establishments: chef Dominique Roca (L'Atelier Robuchon Étoile, for example) and, front of house, her partner Mikhaël Lyoubi (Flaveur in Nice with the Tourteaux brothers, to cite but one). Carefully chosen, good-quality fresh ingredients, such as the red mullet on this occasion, a choice of accompaniment (eg sautéed potatoes or roasted vegetables), a fine selection of wines that covers all the regions – and with that the deal is s

Epiro

€€italian

A stone's throw from the port, Alessandra and Marco's restaurant charms foodies with its traditional Roman cuisine. The house-made linguine, cooked al dente and served with tender ventrèche, a spicy tomato sauce and fresh herbs, channel the spirit of an authentic trattoria. The tuna tataki, accompanied by fried artichokes and a creamy wild garlic sauce, is beautifully balanced. For dessert, the lemon and vanilla millefeuille, served with a strawberry and basil sorbet, is light and fresh. This welcoming venue also has a jazzy atmosphere, bohemian decor and cordial service.

Peixes Bonaparte

€€seafood

Between Place Garibaldi and the port, this offshoot of the Peixes Opéra also boasts a huge terrace that is taken by storm on sunny days! The Bonaparte deploys the same winning formula of seafood dishes (fish, tataki, sashimi, accras, oysters) and ceviche specialities. The updated blue and white seafaring bistro decor calls to mind Portugal or Greece. Behind the bar, a mixologist conjures up cocktails. The lunch menu is a steal. Open all day long, albeit with a more concise menu until 7pm.

🕐 Mo-Sa 12:00-22:00;Su off

Colita

€€Mediterranean Cuisine

Located between Nice's port and the Colline du Château, this restaurant brings together the flavours of Colombia and Italy in bright and colourful fusion dishes cooked up by chefs Carlos and Daniele. Diners soak up the warm, relaxed atmosphere on the spacious terrace with orange seating or in the narrow indoor dining space done out in terracotta hues. In the visible kitchen, it is all about open-flame cooking – on plancha and parrilla grills. Grilled octopus, braised veal chop and sardines in a chimichurri sauce deliver intense flavours; a vibrant and well-balanced Peruvian ceviche combines wh

L'Atelier

€€€french

Originally from Vendée, chef Stéphane Chenneveau must have been a little crazy – or "fada" in the Nice dialect, to dare to revisit the city’s ubiquitous socca, flatbread made with chickpea flour... And yet it remains a firm fixture of the menu. The chef has never ceased to evolve, crafting flavoursome regional recipes, together with a more ambitious carte blanche menu which is seasonal and reflects his mood of the moment. Splendid biodynamic wine list.

🕐 Tu-Fr 12:00-14:00, 18:30-22:00; Sa,Su,Mo off

Comptoir du Marché

€€Traditional Cuisine

In the heart of bustling historic Nice, casual and friendly are the watchwords of this vintage-inspired market counter, whose name is equal to the chef’s colourful, flavoursome dishes. Concise menu, unfailingly fresh and reasonable rates: it is always a pleasure to spend time here.

🕐 Mo off;Tu-Sa 12:00-14:00,19:00-22:00;Su off

Bar des Oiseaux

€€Traditional Cuisine

In this small corner house, Armand Crespo's "Bird Bar" won't fail to have foodies flapping with delight. Fine traditional French dishes (brandade, bourride) feature alongside delicious artisanal pasta: ravioli and stuffed chicken, seafood linguine etc. All at reasonable prices, in a decor inspired by pop art.

Shintaro

€€Japanese

An intimate sushi counter in pale-coloured wood and another small, pared-back space through a stone archway – this is where Shintaro Suzuki, the meticulous and focused chef, presents his no-nonsense authentic Japanese cuisine at very reasonable prices. The must-try dishes include confit aubergine marinated in soy sauce and ginger, beef tataki with onion yakiniku sauce, and yuzu-miso tuna katsu. A simpler set menu is available at lunchtime; reservation required.

Les Deux Canailles

€€Modern Cuisine

Under the management of a Japanese chef who lacks neither experience nor enthusiasm, this smart establishment can be relied upon to deliver the goods. The lunchtime menu is something of a bargain for Nice! The score is Mediterranean, minimalist, fresh and wonderfully delicate, with a scattering of Japanese twists.

🕐 Mo off;Tu-Th 12:00-14:00;Fr-Sa 12:00-14:00,19:30-22:00;Su off

Fine Gueule

€€Traditional Cuisine

In Nice's old town, opposite the town hall, this restaurant's newly refurbished interior is organised around an open kitchen and a counter where customers can sit to eat. But the real pleasure is to be found in the food, with traditional dishes chalked up on the board each day, including for starters the home-made pissaladière, devilled eggs or calamari a la plancha.

Peixes Opéra

€€seafood

Near the town hall and the opera house is Peixes – pronounced "pesh" (i.e. "fish" in Portuguese). In a dinky bistro interior adorned in blue and white tiles, fish and seafood is served in the form of tapas-style dishes (ceviche, carpaccio, tataki fried fish, cod fritters). Mediterranean and South American accents are joyfully blended into dishes that are packed in fresh, vibrant flavours. Extremely popular, non-stop service from noon to midnight with a concise slate menu from 2-7pm, no bookings; the terrace is frequently taken by storm.

🕐 Mo-Sa 12:00-14:00,19:00-22:00;Su off

Le Bistrot des Docks

€€Modern Cuisine

At a remove from the tourist trail, this unassuming gourmet bistro has opened its doors opposite the Docks de la Riviera covered market, in the area around the market (Marché de la Libération) and the Gare du Sud food hall. The local clientele, who delight in the cuisine of chef Nicolas Mendjisky, have given it their seal of approval. Presented on a blackboard, his mouth-watering short menu showcases fresh, local ingredients. Dishes such as market vegetables on crostini or sea bass with lemon butter embody refined yet generous cuisine that draws on seasonal Mediterranean flavours. The chef's p

Onakaya

€€€japanese

Post-renovation, Onaka is now Onakaya, in a nod to Japan's izakayas – casual dining spots where simple food is made to be shared. At this Nice establishment tucked away at the end of a cul-de-sac (accessed via rue de la Liberté), the serve vegetable tempura, salmon lightly seared with yuzu-miso, maki and sushi, as well as playful twists on local culinary tradition: prawn socca tacos and inventive takes on dragon rolls. Chic decor, an in-house cocktail bar and a fine sake selection. Upstairs, Onakasé offers an intimate dining experience with a 12-seat counter and a high-end tasting menu. Bookin

Taulissa

€€€Mediterranean Cuisine

High up on the sixth floor of Maison Albar - Le Victoria hotel, this restaurant boasts a picture-postcard panoramic view, with the city on one side, the sea on the other. In this elegant, light-filled dining space dotted with maritime details, Glenn Viel and his associate Fred Grava put their own spin on Southern French cuisine, using local produce and intensely flavoured jus. Dishes such as catch of the day and confit lamb shoulder are presented tableside by the attentive and friendly team, adding theatricality to a dining experience that allows diners to savour the Mediterranean.

🕐 Mo-Su 12:00-14:30, 19:00-22:30

Le Séjour Café

€€french

Shelves filled with books, trinkets and plants, paintings and photos on the walls set the scene for what feels like the inviting sitting room of a lovely private mansion. Now let’s add the appeal of market-fresh cuisine, an abundance of culinary delights and a commitment to respecting the seasons, without forgetting the gracious welcome and service.

🕐 Mo off;Tu-Sa 12:00-13:30, 19:30-21:30;Su off

Apopino

€€€Mediterranean Cuisine, Modern Cuisine

Nestling in a chic neighbourhood, this bistro with a navy blue decor is home to a Piedmontese chef. He prepares market cuisine, Mediterranean – as you might expect, with Italian influences: fillet of bass accompanied by a crushed courgette trumpet and Taggiasca olives. The suggestions on the blackboard change according to the season and to the chef's inspiration. Everything is house-made, with the exception of the artisan bread, which comes from an excellent bakery.

Le Canon

€€Farm to table

Picture an attractive vintage interior paired with a culinary repertory that shines the spotlight on locally sourced, often organic produce: tomato gazpacho, mozzarella di bufala and peppers; locally fished mullet, ratatouille of local veg and black rice; pear and hazelnut tart… More sophisticated in the evening and 100% natural wines.

La Rotonde

€€€Mediterranean Cuisine

The rotunda-shaped brasserie of the legendary luxury hotel has resolutely entered the modern world. In this light-filled space (with a terrace), you choose from a menu (designed by Michelin-starred chef Virginie Basselot) that celebrates a flavoursome and colourful cuisine full of Mediterranean flair, with nods to Nice's traditions.

🕐 Mo-Su 12:00-14:00, 19:00-22:00

Marixx

€€€Seafood, Seasonal Cuisine

Located well away from the busy city centre and overlooking the luxury yachts and boats moored in the harbour, this restaurant opened in the summer of 2021, at the same time as the modern Cala del Forte marina in which it is situated (the name of the marina comes from the Forte dell'Annunziata, the ruins of which are visible from the side facing the sea). Fish and seafood take pride of place here (especially raw fish dishes), served with classic, seasonal accompaniments, as well as snacks, while an oyster bar is an added attraction. Although the best tables are in the glass-fronted veranda ove

Il Giardino del Gusto

€€€Contemporary, Seasonal Cuisine

In the most evocative heart of Ventimiglia, the restaurant looks out over a graceful pedestrian square where, in the warmer months, a small outdoor area welcomes guests to the slow rhythm of the old town. Inside, the intimate dining room, with its classic décor, exudes a discreet warmth, made up of traditional details and an atmosphere that invites guests to linger. The kitchen gives pride of place to the sea, interpreting local produce with respect and creativity, the undisputed star of the menu. Yet there is also a tasting menu dedicated to the vegetable garden, designed to showcase the fres

Romolo Mare

€€Seafood

Situated in a private beach club facing the sea, this restaurant combines a relaxed atmosphere with an elegant feel thanks to its professional owners who have worked as restaurateurs for many years. Here, they serve excellent fish and seafood cuisine with a focus on raw dishes, plus a choice of daily fish specials. A selection of interesting local wines completes the picture.

Magiargè Osteria Contemporanea

€€Ligurian

The dining rooms in this lively, typical restaurant in the upper, historic part of Bordighera appear to be almost dug out of the rock. Here, a local chef with plenty of experience behind him creates predominantly Ligurian cuisine (and not just fish and seafood), accompanied by an excellent and extensive wine list, including labels from outside Italy and a good selection of champagnes. Attentive service completes the picture here.

La Table de Kamiya

€€Modern Cuisine

Japanese chef Takayuki Kamiya and pastry chef Claire, his French-Japanese wife, have set up shop on the seafront of Cagnes-sur-Mer. The food is inspired by their adopted homeland (Provence) and their family backgrounds. Their set menus feature dishes inspired by France and Provence (sea bass in an almond crust, courgettes and pistou) and elevated by discreet Japanese touches (wakame, oloshi sauce, yuzu). Both the delicious peach dessert with verbena jelly and the rum baba, a house classic, are out of this world.

L'Agapè

€€Modern Cuisine

In their small seafront restaurant with just 20 spots available, Morgane David and her partner, the accomplished chef Guillaume Winterstein, are always fully booked – so be sure to make a reservation. The menu, which changes every two months, features an abundance of fresh, seasonal and local ingredients. We enjoyed the chicken raviolo served with vegetable stock and barley miso; shoulder of confit suckling lamb with navarin-style early vegetables; and, for dessert, the scrumptious riz au lait with Madagascar vanilla and salted caramel. Great value for money at lunchtime, and a warm welcome.

Fleur de Sel

€€Modern Cuisine

Fleur de Sel, taken over by a couple of young industry professionals, Alexis Cachat and Chloé Feuillet, has the requisite crunch, freshness and flavour. The promising pair met while plying their trade at a MICHELIN-starred restaurant in the Massif de l'Estérel, and are now delighting their own guests with meticulous Mediterranean cuisine. Taking their cue from the seasons, they offer good value for money: courgette flower stuffed with ricotta, olives, anchovies, fresh herbs, gazpacho and crunchy local courgette. Chloé not only provides cordial service, she is also in charge of desserts: think

🕐 Fr-Tu 19:00-21:00

Le Moulin de Saint-Paul

€€Mediterranean Cuisine

Chef Alain Llorca has dropped anchor in an inn at the entrance to this picture postcard village, which also found favour with iconic figures ranging from Matisse, Braque and Chagall to novelist James Baldwin and the legendary Montand-Signoret duo. In a 17C former oil mill whose millstone and press are still visible, the kitchen sings an ode to bistro fare (veal blanquette and pilaf rice, beef tartare and fresh fries, black pudding with apples) and specialties from Nice like roast squid and risotto of Nice courgettes.

Nacl

€€Modern Cuisine

Nestled within the medieval ramparts of Vence, this small restaurant, whose name refers to salt (cast your mind back to chemistry lessons: NaCl is the chemical formula for sodium chloride), serves authentic seasonal cuisine that takes a no-nonsense approach. The menu changes depending on the food markets, and the lunch set menu is a great deal. Friendly service.

Le Saint-Martin

€€€€Modern Cuisine

The stylish, low-key Saint Martin Hotel, whose rooms command sweeping views over the hillsides of Vence and the Mediterranean, is most definitely a treat for the eye. In the plush dining room or on the breathtaking terrace, you will sample intelligently devised dishes underscored by high-flying craftsmanship and a sprinkling of inspired associations.

L'Atelier des Saveurs by Stéphane Garcia

€€€Modern Cuisine

Fruit and veg from local producers, fish from local fishermen, meat from southwest France and a knockout lineup of Basque cheeses: the “flavour workshop” more than lives up to its name! Examples include fillet of Galician beef with a gravy laced in Espelette pepper and mashed seasonal veg… A 100% Basque menu is available to order, in tribute to the chef’s roots.

Clovis

€€€Modern Cuisine

This bistro in the heart of a medieval village has a short menu with an original concept: several starter + main course pairings built around a flagship ingredient, such as a vegetable, Mediterranean fish or meat, often Parthenaise beef from the family farm in Vendée. We recommend starting with an aperitif and charcuterie. Warm welcome; excellent wine list. Adjacent to the restaurant is a wine bar, which serves delicious platters.

Spelt

€€€Modern Cuisine

Here in the historical heart of the fortified town, Raphaël (on savoury dishes) and Marion (desserts) delight diners with their no-nonsense and full-flavoured bistronomy creations. At dinner, a tasting menu features the restaurant's namesake dish of spelt risotto with lobster. Don't miss the pastry chef's signature dessert: Caribbean chocolate mousse and cocoa sorbet.

Le Figuier de Saint-Esprit

€€€€fine_dining

Straddling the ramparts of the Old Town, between the Picasso Museum and the Marché Provençal, this family-run establishment is upholding tradition, with dishes such as squid and clam cannelloni or saddle of lamb from the Alpilles cooked in Vallauris clay. The fig tree gracing the patio contributes to the peaceful atmosphere.

L'Arazur

€€€Modern Cuisine, Mediterranean Cuisine

At the helm of this pocket - sized restaurant tucked away in historic Antibes, the owner - chef celebrates the seasons with fresh, colourful and simply prepared dishes. Vegetables are particularly pampered. A delicious moment in store for your taste buds.

Le Vauban

€€french

In a bustling street in the old town, Le Vauban serves up good contemporary French cuisine that is in step with the seasons and technically sound. Particular attention is paid to the choice of ingredients: amberjack carpaccio with citrus fruits and caviar; low-temperature guinea fowl ballotine; passion fruit soufflé and banana sorbet. It is wise to book.

Maison de Bacon

€€€€Seafood, Mediterranean Cuisine

Le Bâcon, an Antibes institution since 1948, has been transformed into the Maison de Bâcon. In the kitchens, Nicolas Davouze, formerly of Bocuse and Le Bristol, celebrates the house's signature dishes (such as rockfish soup, bouillabaisse, millefeuille), alongside a fine selection of fish grilled over a wood fire. Splendid view of the sea.

Nananère

€€Modern Cuisine

A childhood treat – but better! Bang in the middle of town, this modern, stylish brasserie, decorated in a playful vein, is fronted by a lovely patio, decked out in olive green furnishings, overlooking a leafy, cobbled square. The culinary score stars local delicacies, like salade niçoise and pissaladière, that have been updated and reworked, many of which bear amusing names in keeping with the establishment’s theme. The free-range breast of poultry and risotto of spelt with morels and savory, which come straight from the family cottage garden in Vallauris, hits the spot every time, as does th

Miraé by Mauro Colagreco

€€€Mediterranean Cuisine

Located on the legendary headland of Cap d'Antibes, this luxury boutique hotel, in a quiet spot set back from the famous beach, Plage de la Garoupe, is overseen by chef Mauro Colagreco (Mirazur). Lucky diners tuck into dishes that celebrate Mediterranean produce, from the French Riviera to neighbouring Liguria. A relaxed atmosphere reigns in the chic interior and on the peaceful and lush garden terrace furnished with light rattan chairs and set against a backdrop of umbrella pines, palm trees and bougainvillea.

Amarines by Mauro Colagreco

€€€€Creative, Mediterranean Cuisine

Part of a luxurious boutique hotel on the Cap d'Antibes peninsula, this creative fine dining establishment is helmed by renowned chef Mauro Colagreco. The restaurant occupies a charming pavilion set within the hotel gardens. Its dining room, which boasts a decor inspired by the sea and the natural world, opens onto a terrace planted with mulberry plane trees. Expect refined interpretations of Mediterranean cuisine: gamberoni prawn carpaccio with citrus and basil oil; wild-caught Mediterranean fish, sauce vierge with Taggiasca olives, preserved lemon, capers and fennel; floating island calisson

Le Bistrot du Port

€€€€Seafood

Opposite the old port, the chef gives free rein to his unbridled creativity, inspired in particular by trips to Asia and his passion for seafood. The tasting menu ("Plongée en plusieurs paliers") is a genuine ode to the sea, with dishes like tartare of squid and dentex, covered in rice sheet and seasoned with a soy sauce made out of fermented fish and lime juice. The produce is remarkably fresh, the cooking is spot-on and the risk-taking is constant: this is a restaurant that stands out from the crowd! Their signature bouillabaisse, for two or more people, is out of this world…

Le Clos Saint-Pierre

€€€french

In the heart of Le Rouret, opposite the church and in the shade of the plane trees on the boules court, this stone-built inn has a Provençal soul. Catherine and Daniel Ettlinger, accompanied by young chef Augustin Dupuis, propose a single set menu aligned with the market: mussels in saffron cream, pan-fried ceps and Paimpol coco beans, free-range chicken from the Tarn with olive jus, roast pear in a crispy puff pastry, and a truffle menu in season. The sunny terrace and chic, inviting interior provide a lovely setting in which to enjoy crystal-clear, sincere cuisine in which flavour trumps all

Le Bistro du Clos

€€Traditional Cuisine

Whether outdoors, in the shade of hackberry trees or indoors, in the bistro dotted with old knickknacks, you will inevitably find yourself surrounded by an enthusiastic crowd of faithful regulars. The chef ticks all the boxes in his open kitchen. A talented craftsman, he curates generous, seasonal dishes from fresh, premium ingredients in a Provençal register that hits the spot every time: chuck beef stew, braised vegetables, fresh tomato vinaigrette or red fruit pannacotta. The establishment is located in the left wing of the Maison des Terroirs, aptly devoted to promoting regional produce.

🕐 Tu-Sa 12:00-14:00,19:00-22:00

Caffé César L'initial

€€Modern Cuisine, Provençal

A large patio and a spacious, modern interior with an open-plan kitchen set the scene for spot-on, bistronomic cuisine, steeped in the aromas and flavours of Provence and the Mediterranean. Tartlet of rockfish and artichoke with sumac; dentex with parsnips and a lemon-cardamon sauce; chocolate opéra cake. A cheerful, friendly vibe with wines by the glass from a magnum bottle…

🕐 Th-Mo 09:00-22:00

Bohème

€€€Modern Cuisine

In this smart, trendy establishment with a decor of premium and untreated materials, the food is an ode to the very best breeds of beef cattle, aged and prepared by the famous butcher Alexandre Polmard in his unique way. Peruvian chef Manuel Rondan is in a class of his own when it comes to cooking over hot coals and wild-fish ceviche, as well as some lovely Mediterranean dishes. There is a drop-dead view from the terrace.

Riviera

€€€€Mediterranean Cuisine

The legendary luxury hotel, which celebrated its 110th anniversary in 2023, now has its own marble-clad restaurant with a superb terrace overlooking the Croisette. In an opulent-feeling dining room where white meets black, the tables set with Gien porcelain are in line with time-honoured tradition of French table arts. The chef's table opposite the open kitchen also draws the eye. Everything else meets the standard set by your surroundings: Mediterranean cuisine made from top-quality local and seasonal ingredients, the calibre of service, with meat and fish cut at your table. You'll enjoy an e