B&B Château de Preuil

This restaurant run by a sincere and welcoming couple in an old farmhouse about 15km from Bourges is definitely one to recommend. Everything is house-made, most of the vegetables come from the family's own garden, and freshness is the order of the day in each dish. Multi-course set menus – more elaborate in the evening and at weekends – to be enjoyed on the shaded terrace bordered by the garden.

Annie and Mickaël Landaud are at the helm of an elegant family establishment which is quite a favourite with the locals. The bluish tones and plant-inspired artwork pay homage to the nearby marshlands… The chef conjures up modern, appetising dishes, adding a playful new spin to a traditional Gallic score. Alfresco dining in the rear courtyard.

Japan boasts two museums devoted to the cartoonist Raymond Peynet, who created the famous lovers in 1942, immortalised by a postage stamp. Some of his Japanese admirers thus naturally chose the small village of Saint Valentin to celebrate February 14 in culinary style. In a stripped-back, contemporary interior, graced with posters and lithographs by Peynet, a 100% Japanese brigade conjures up a subtle new take on modern Gallic fare, scattered with delicate Japanese notes.

With its beams painted "Berrichon blue", this is an extremely appealing spot. You are in for a culinary treat, safe in the hands of a chef who draws inspiration from tradition and premium ingredients, producing dishes such as foie gras poached in Reuilly or hay-steamed pigeon. In fine weather, be sure to reserve a table on the terrace.

This rustic village house is the lair of Maud Millet, who conjures up stylish, flavoursome, signature cuisine that is entirely made from scratch – from the bread to the charcuterie made out of organic Gascony pigs raised by her hubbie, Benoît, who also lends a hand in the dining room. The focus is on cherry-picked local ingredients, e.g. courgette flower stuffed with pike and a jus of Loire crayfish. The couple champions authentic, hand-crafted cuisine presented in a single set menu and served in a warm, homely vibe. The epitome of a French country restaurant.