The Escape

This handsome mansion in the heart of Salon-de-Provence is the lair of Alexandre Lechêne. He treats diners to remarkably creative cuisine unveiled in surprise set menus that adhere to a single guideline: "Go with the flow"! The beautifully plated dishes showcase market garden produce and local fruit, such as flame-seared Mediterranean liche (fish) paired with a medley of parsnips and a fishbone stock. Fresh, tasty and perfectly seasoned! The combinations of ingredients can be daring but are always spot on and deftly crafted. The stylish interior sports mouldings, frescoes on the ceiling, Prove

Open for lunch only (Tue-Sat), Atelier Salone is the bistro sibling of Villa Salone. In a laid-back atmosphere, dishes such as pig's-head pâté with sauce gribiche, confit of veal breast with glazed vegetables, or tarte Tatin with caramel sauce and vanilla ice cream are served in a small dining room with a moulded ceiling and a fireplace, on the light-filled veranda or on the shaded outdoor patio.

Chef Julien Allano (La Mirande, Le Clair de la Plume) chose to go it alone and set up shop in this beautiful traditional building in the heart of the village. In an interior with exposed stonework, the chef can be seen at work behind a wooden counter. Meanwhile, guests are seated on handcrafted furnishings made of untreated walnut wood – a decor that oozes style. The carte blanche menu, which is divided into several sections, reflects the season from day to day. Heirloom varieties of wheat, peanuts from Malataverne, green beans from a neighbouring farm and pigeon from Sarrians are just some of

Christophe Bacquié greets diners like old friends in his gorgeous farmhouse set in peaceful countryside, surrounded by vineyards, olive groves and lavender fields. With his wife Alexandra and a closeknit, committed team, all of whom share his passion for Southern France and its produce and wines, Bacquié unfolds a single set menu with a strong Mediterranean identity. With flavour as his watchword, he crafts the finest ingredients simply and transparently and we were delighted to see some of his signature dishes, such as his modern aioli and his vision of iced Calisson, in pride of place on the

This iconic Luberon restaurant is run by a talented team headed up by chef Noël Bérard. His modernised take on Provençal cuisine finds joyful expression in two tasting menus, one of which focuses on plants. High-quality ingredients (including veal from Gordes, trout from the River Sorgue, oysters from the Camargue, pork from Monteux etc), bold sauces and jus and a delicate style. There is a magnificent terrace from which you can admire the sunset. Also of note in this enchanting setting in the heart of Provence is the wood-fired cooking at La Bergerie, and of course the comfortable guestrooms

Nadia Sammut is committed to "building a better-tasting world". Gluten, refined white sugar and milk have been banished from her kitchen, in favour of an impressive move towards different types of flour and fructose. Her vision is also reflected in the original and bold tasting menu, which has a particular focus on vegetables and draws on the history of the region and Nadia's family. Her partner Ernest, who is passionate about wine, selects and matures fish slaughtered according to the ikejime method. The vegetable garden also has its part to play in creating healthy and natural Southern Frenc

Between the Durance River and the Sud Luberon, this modern restaurant lives up to its name with a lovely shaded terrasse enveloped by the sound of the cicadas (cigales)… plus, you get attentive, smiling service! Mathieu and Sébastien serve an appetising traditional Provence-inspired menu, as well as a daily special that is great value for money. The delicious dishes are carefully crafted with no messing around. The aim is to keep things simple, flavoursome and generous, while using selected regional ingredients: vegetables and olive oil from the village, lamb from the Alpilles, fish from the B