Château de Codignat

In this restaurant with a festive and friendly atmosphere, Jackie and Christelle Flandin and team serve up their skilful and successfully modernised take on traditional cuisine. The lunch menu – presented verbally and served in the cosy and comfortable space – is full of shining examples: whiting and potato cromesquis served with a parsnip medley, or cabbage stuffed with braised cuttlefish, scallops and a braising jus infused with orange and passion fruit. The indulgence continues with the meticulously crafted desserts, such as a hazelnut and chocolate creation, highly nuanced in terms of both

A wind of change is blowing through this family establishment (open since 1975), since the son Léo, who honed his skills in top establishments, has taken over the helm. Against a backdrop of woodland and the Monts du Forez, the interior has been revamped as has the updated lineup which stars regional produce (local game, fish from a nearby fish farm and cheese), founded on solid textbook foundations. The wickedly enticing desserts are the work of the chef’s mum, who also makes the delicious bread.