AU PIED DU VENTOUX

Raised in Marseille, Xavier Mathieu is a true-blue Provençal lad. He was introduced to the world of haute cuisine by master chef, Roger Vergé, a family friend. He went on to complete his apprenticeship with Joël Robuchon in Paris, before returning to the splendid family home nestling in the Luberon scrubland. The chef, who sports a distinctive shock of white hair, breathes new life into Provençal culinary traditions, giving each dish a new twist on its original form. Tian of black olives from the garden, leg of lamb from the Alpilles cooked in warm sand of the garrigue, two-course pieds et paq

Boasting an idyllic terrace overlooking Mt Ventoux, the restaurant of this luxury hotel offers two menus, depending on the service: at lunchtime, there are plates for sharing. These cleverly devised and well-prepared dishes are inspired by the Mediterranean and Provence (think Mediterranean prawn carpaccio, flame-roasted octopus with a spicy mayonnaise, potato gnocchi with Parmesan, Sisteron lamb kofta etc). In the evening, the more elaborate menu features premium ingredients (grilled turbot, fennel salad and a peach-verbena condiment; sautéed veal, green beans, artichokes and foie gras and ha

In a peaceful village, this small square basking in the shade of the church is the quintessence of rural France. The chef uses local ingredients whenever possible: trout, strawberries, figs, cheese, vegetables… Seasonal food served in a pleasant conservatory-cum-workshop interior.

Chef Charlène Estevão's discreet little restaurant is just a stone's throw from the covered market and Porte Notre-Dame. Having learnt the ropes under Christian Sinicropi, Lionel Lévy and Coline Faulquier, she devises a market-based set menu at lunchtime and a single multi-course set menu in the evening. Her modern cuisine, inspired by her travels, reveals Mediterranean notes and makes subtle use of spices. Her take on pissaladière deserves a special mention: a warm tartlet of caramelised onions, anchovy cream, airy onion espuma, black olive powder, pickles and onion gel. It has all the hallma

In a pedestrian area, just opposite the old church, which has been turned into a cultural centre, this former grocery store is now a charming little restaurant. Sustainable agriculture is favoured, with well - packed dishes: for example, the beef carpaccio, slipper lobster jus, marinated seaweed and oyster fritters.

The menu of this Café features a seasonal repertory with Mediterranean influences (Roussillon asparagus, Ventoux pork chop, aïoli of salted whiting) and recipes that are reminiscent of the summer holidays (salade niçoise, club sandwich). Simple, no-nonsense nosh served by a fountain overlooking the swimming pool.