Mercure Chambéry Centre

In a pretty spot on one of the city's central squares, this building is the stomping ground of a chef who revisits classics from French tradition with passion and precision: boiled egg, fricassee of chanterelles and parsley emulsion; chuck of beef cooked at a low temperature, potato galette and truffle jus; hot soufflé with Grand Marnier – quality ingredients go into these delicious and carefully executed dishes.

In the heart of Chambéry, this establishment is a hit courtesy of its leafy terrace, shaded by a fig tree that is a genuine haven of peace and quiet in the city centre. The chef with stints at Lasserre and Rech under his belt orchestrates a modern, indulgent Mediterranean score, dotted with Middle Eastern accents: refreshing ceviche of greater amberjack dotted with citrus fruit and raspberries; plancha seared giant prawns, jalapenos sauce and lemon-scented Lebanese tabouleh. Gracious, warm welcome, cheerful service and vibrant dishes packed in globetrotting appeal.

By a winding road through the Bauges mountains, this establishment is the epitome of a country village inn whose recently refurbished wood-rich chic interior pays tribute to the surrounding countryside. Romain Bonnier works with local produce and a veggie-centric ethos, without forgetting meat and fish from the lake. His delicate mousse of catfish with spinach and his fragrant tartlet of crunchy white asparagus are packed with flavour, while his Chartreuse lamb cooked several ways is in a class of its own. Sweeping views over the Chambéry valley and surprise menus that invite the diner to “let