La Bastide De Sauvetas

Built on the ruins of a hermitage in the heart of Provençal Drôme, this proud homestead first woos us with its bare stone walls and lime vaults. Johan Thyriot then bowls us over with a creative score presented by theme: Water, Earth, Air and Fire. Dishes, such as ikejime trout or guinea fowl roasted whole, are further enhanced by permaculture vegetables. Rare peppers and aromatic plants are the guiding thread that binds these compositions together. High-flying, distinctive craftsmanship.

Nestling at the foot of a château that is famous for having welcomed Madame de Sévigné as a regular patron, this restaurant is the perfect embodiment of Provence's twin traditions of hospitality and good food: olive oil from Nyons, guinea fowl and diced vegetables from the Drôme are judiciously showcased by chef Benjamin Reilhes in the form of three tasting menus comprising several courses. One of the set menus draws entirely on plants. This restaurant is an ode to the Mediterranean's fine ingredients and Rhône Valley wines. Pastry chef Cédric Perret, meanwhile, creates desserts in harmony wit

(Temporarily closed) Julie and Sébastien Bonnet have settled in a pretty country village a few kilometres from Crest, their previous haunt. In an edifice dear to Sébastien’s heart (it was formerly the Demeure de Grane, a local institution where he carried out his apprenticeship), he enthusiastically demonstrates that both his talents and his seasonal fare, equally poised between surf and turf produce, are as enticing as ever. His spot-on, sophisticated, occasionally playful dishes are served in two cosily contemporary dining rooms. The splendid wine list, with Rhône wines in a prominent positi

In the heart of the Domaine du Colombier, the Bistrot is depicted by spot-on cooking that blends modernity with tradition courtesy of premium regional produce. Tartare of Ardèche trout, poultry tournedos with Nyons olives or crème brûlée infused in vanilla-tonka bean: a lineup of well-crafted dishes that celebrates the South. Modern interior, glazed wine cellar and a patio overlooking the countryside. Peace and quiet just a few miles outside town.

On the legendary road that is the Nationale 7, this place has struck on a winning formula. Le Moderne, with its name and decor that call to mind the 1950s, has not aged a day. An appealing restaurant complete with a delicatessen and wine shop, it certainly has the feel-good factor. Marion (in the kitchen) and Ben Franze (front of house) put a smile on our faces with their delicious seasonal cuisine that has met with well-deserved success: escargot cromesquis and poultry jus; Charolais beef sirloin cooked two ways, fried panisse and chimichurri sauce. In fine weather, head for the terrace.

(Temporarily closed) Len'K is the bistronomic wing of the Bonnet establishment. Seated on the terrace shaded by plane trees or in the dining room, diners are in for a treat as they tuck into guinea fowl and olive terrine, or stuffed red mullet paired with a velvety shellfish emulsion. Laid-back service.

Epona, Gallic goddess of travellers and abundance, watches over this welcoming establishment, conveniently located between Valence and Montélimar in the Ardèche. In the evenings and at weekends, peruse the set menu (without options) and the short, appetising seasonal à la carte menu. Rustic and warm, as he himself defines it, the chef's cuisine is rooted in the local terroir. With real jus and pretty presentations, his dishes show a deft touch: cold courgette velouté and gravlax salmon; confit pork belly and seasonal vegetables. At lunchtime, a daily menu only is served.