Maison du Lac

As you explore the winding lanes of Avignon, you may come upon this attractive restaurant with a large open-plan kitchen. The chefs deliver the food to the table themselves, while you drink up the savvy tips of an enthusiastic sommelier, who is something of a connoisseur of biodynamic wines. Mathieu Desmarest crafts a surprise menu depicted by legible, pared-down, balanced dishes, courtesy of seasonal produce sourced from local suppliers, enabling him to make the most of this cornucopia of impeccable ingredients (octopus, bluefin tuna, pigeon). The subtle and creative recipes and marriages of

Near Avignon, this remote Provençal farmhouse set between cliffs and vineyards does not compromise on authenticity. The scents of the garrigue fill the tastefully renovated interior, which sports a harmonious blend of period details and modern fittings. In the kitchen, Maxime is assisted by his father, Serge Chenet, Meilleur Ouvrier de France. The pair share a love of all things natural and the seasonal ingredients bursting with the flavours of this sun-drenched region. These Bretons, who haven't turned their backs on the staples of butter and cream, work together to concoct a tasty Provençal-

Red mullet, courgettes, peppers, artichokes and olive oil: chef Julien Gleize celebrates Provence on a picturesque square of the City of Popes, courtesy of drool-worthy dishes jazzed up with herbs and spices and a fondness for produce from the Atlantic. A seasonal score packed with flavour to be sampled in an urban interior dotted with vintage details or on a shaded terrace by a refreshing fountain.

In a small Provençal village with bags of character, Ineffable promises diners a feast for the senses. The restaurant is run by a couple with a passion for what they do: Nicolas Thomas and Marie Salomez (previously of La Promenade, La Flibuste, Château de Courban). This space with a decor of exposed stone walls and contemporary furnishings, and animated by a soundscape of soothing birdsong has just five tables. The chef riffs on poetic culinary leitmotifs, marrying olives and olive wood, plants and seafood (even meat on the larger set menu). A music lover, he has a sense for timing and harmony

Wood panelling, mouldings and a fireplace set the elegant Provençal scene of this venerable establishment. Pascal Auger is in his element, crafting Mediterranean fare steeped in the aromas and flavours of the south. On sunny days (you’re in Avignon!) you can enjoy these delicacies beneath the ancient plane tree on the terrace facing a fountain.

Good ideas, know - how... Julien Chazal, a young chef from Avignon, shows us how it's done! Furthermore, his seasonal cooking is visually meticulous, with presentations that leave nothing to chance. And let's not forget the down - to - earth, smiling service.

In the city of the famous arts festival, theatre is even part of the dining experience. Act I: a young couple of catering professionals set up shop in a magnificent edifice in the historic centre. Act II: a cheerful welcoming vibe and a cosy setting. Act III: a single set menu packed in fresh local, seasonal ingredients. The scene is set for the curtain to rise! Tuck into ravioles of cod brandade, celery and green apple sauce or breast of guinea fowl with parsnips and a gutsy gravy.