La KEFOISE

This spruce, endearing bistro on the main square of Illies is smoothly and passionately run by former Top Chef contestant, Christophe Pirotais and his partner Julie Dieudonné. Their gutsy indulgent cuisine is unveiled in an inspired, big-boned surprise menu, illustrated by a delicate pannacotta of white asparagus with radish-flavoured ice cream or a fillet of seabream escorted by chickpea fritters and a creamy jus of smoked herring roe. The welcome is warm and cheerful and the service is as smooth as a silky bearnaise sauce. Lovely rear patio for alfresco dining in fine weather.

This handsome redbrick edifice at a crossroads in the hamlet of Petit Attiches is run by an enthusiastic young couple. A stylish, modern interior, a terrace and a pretty garden to the rear set the inviting scene. Carefully crafted, up-to-the-minute dishes are paired with fine wines.

Chef Jérôme Prévost (a local man and formerly sous-chef at Le Cerisier in Laventie) has brought panache to these premises – once an antique dealers' – in the heart of Douai. The elegant vestiges of the past (marble fireplace etc) blend in seamlessly with the restaurant's modern decor (with designer features such as circular banquettes, light fittings, swivel chairs). The chef makes the most of fish from the Côte d'Opale and vegetables from local producers; in season, he dedicates a menu to lobster. Boterzing, part of the same group, serves simpler bistronomy cuisine.

Chic but not chichi, this hotel restaurant charms with its deftly crafted cuisine and delicious dishes. Chef Loïc Constant has been delighting diners for over 15 years, thanks to quality ingredients, a sure hand and a touch of generosity. Tuck into a simple yet irresistible carpaccio of sea bass with cayenne pepper, before indulging in divine house-made profiteroles. The attentive and efficient service perfectly rounds off the experience, as you dine in the presence of stars of the silver screen, whose portraits hang on the walls in silver frames.