La Caroline

This pleasant, trendy restaurant close to the cathedral is run by young chef Stéphane Bruyer. In a renovated dining space decorated in natural tones (with lots of plants), he serves simple, seasonal cuisine, using market produce to devise a single set menu (with a choice of fish or meat). This is a very popular spot in Amiens... and it's easy to see why.

This establishment, run by Éric Boutté, rolls out classically themed cuisine with a modern twist that is in tune with the seasons and of local inspiration and origin. Among its emblematic dishes, you will find cabbage, painstakingly stuffed leaf by leaf, the house signature, or confit of rabbit leg flanked by a medley of parsnips. More adventurous diners might like to try marinated scallops on a purée of butternut, paired with smoked herring roe. The interior sports a splendid marriage of “waide” blue (a local pigment) and untreated concrete, in tribute to the region. Eater friendly prices.

In this pretty inn, you simply decide how many courses you would like and the chef will do the rest! The young chef is rather bold in his cooking, sometimes dreaming up original combinations of flavours (no bad thing in this region where tradition reigns supreme). Pleasant, efficient service and good value for money. It is worth noting that a new shop adjoining the restaurant has been opened for takeaway dishes, from starter to dessert, concocted by the chef.

A classical interior lies behind the large windows of La Flamiche. Here, cuisine with robust traditional foundations is enhanced by a touch of modernity: one example would be the duck foie gras and smoked trout in a Granny Smith jelly, cucumber pickles and apple chutney – a beautifully crafted starter. Then there are the medallions of monkfish with lime, carrot and rocket, perfectly cooked in butter, the good old-fashioned way.

In this handsome, converted, red-brick farmhouse, Maëllie Poynard and Alexandre Laboureur champion local produce with heartwarming sincerity. Everything comes from small local producers from the seasonal veg to the meat. The chef has no qualms about expressing her creativity or trying out unexpected pairings: for example, caviar and chocolate in a match that turns out to be made in heaven. Spot-on technique, a contemporary interior and the relaxed, peaceful pace of a country village: Origine is very aptly named! Rooted, flavoursome food conjured up by an inventive, enthusiastic team.

This characterful rural establishment overlooking the Somme Valley is in the hands of a local lad in love with his region. He works with a tight network of local producers, who bear witness to his commitment and loyalty. The several-course surprise menu showcases ingredients from sustainable farms and independent fishermen. Legible flavours whose simplicity and elegance set the scene for a slap-up meal. Splendid wine cellar with over 300 references and a lovely terrace on fine days. What’s not to like?