authentic by balladins - Domaine Malar

Le Grand Monarque, which is home to Le Georges, has withstood the test of time – the hotel’s first mention in the Michelin Guide dates back to 1900! This elegantly appointed establishment is ideally located between Paris and the Loire at a crossroads between the regions of western France. Thomas Parnaud has steadfastly remained true to his mission of shining the spotlight on local producers who respect the environment as he deploys a top-to-tail ethos. Examples include Perche pike with Eure-et-Loir mushrooms and house-made fish garum, or Racan chicken, seasonal endive and kumquat. It would be

In the heart of Fontainebleau, this smart, low-key restaurant is the HQ of a Japanese chef who orchestrates a new take on pure-bred Gallic gastronomy whilst scrupulously respecting the seasons. Kunihisa Goto is a fan of French cuisine, wines and iconic produce. After training with the best, he reinvents the classics with panache, incorporating a host of Japanese ingredients: daikon, lotus roots, nori, shiso leaves, Wagyu beef… His version of the slow-cooked egg has become a must. Each dish is a masterclass of plating, balanced flavours and gourmet indulgence. Attentive, courteous service.

This luxurious establishment in the Airelles hotel is steeped in history and inextricably linked to the Palace of Versailles. It combines theatrical staging – with diners being greeted by a valet, and staff in period costume – and cuisine tailored to the occasion. Devised by Alain Ducasse, the menu comprises dishes made with premium produce that reflect the great man's commitment to naturalité. Entrusted to chef Stéphane Duchiron, the food is a masterclass in technical skill, with everything expertly cooked and seasoned, and high-quality sauces and jus bringing out the forthright, distinctive

Awarded a MICHELIN star in 2016, chef Jean-Baptiste Lavergne-Morazzani continues to delight diners in his modern and refined restaurant, nestled in the Cour des Senteurs, a stone's throw from the Palace of Versailles. The set menu, which is regularly updated, whisks you away on a meticulously devised and indulgent culinary journey – dishes include marinated langoustine on a bed of warm rice with a hint of vinegar and agastache leaves, accompanied by a delicious langoustine emulsion. At its core is seasonality and top-notch produce, which is generally organic, sourced from sustainable fishing a

Opened in 1910 on the edge of the palace grounds, the Trianon Palace hotel makes its authoritative presence known to walkers who get close to it. What better place to host the work – and fiery character! – of Gordon Ramsay, already a three-starred chef in London? Head chef Gabriele Ravasio is on site to bring to life a menu that is a celebration of fine produce, playing on the simplicity and relevance of the dishes. Well-managed creativity, appealing flavours… Everything conspires to make for a most enjoyable experience, and the location certainly plays its part: an elegant and luminous baroqu

What are two Australian chefs (with stints at Yard, Spring, Bones and Au Passage) doing in the heart of the grounds of Saint Vrain Castle, more precisely in the tastefully refurbished former stables? Well, they are knocking up spot-on food, sourced directly from the estate’s huge cottage garden, which actually existed before the restaurant, using fruit and vegetables that are harvested only when perfectly ripe. A fine dining experience that mingles rural charm and gourmet delights, overlooking the surrounding countryside. Guestrooms available for overnight stays. Booking compulsory.

In the heart of this charming borough, on a pedestrian square near the town hall, a pocket-sized restaurant run by a young chef with an impressive cv. Market-inspired menu with the likes of fresh pasta with mussels, calamari and langoustines, or poultry quenelles with freekeh... Scandinavian style dining room, terrace overlooking a fountain. Delicious prices.