Cocoon inn&Spa

The owners of the fine dining Le Vivier establishment were happily inspired when they opened this bistro, blessed with a double terrace, in the heart of the Carré des Arts du Luberon. From his open-plan kitchen, the chef rustles up a forthright, modern take on traditional bistro recipes, in addition to nibbles with pre-dinner drinks and choice ingredients grilled on a binchotan barbecue (aged rib of beef, squid, presa iberica, etc.). A concise selection of regional (but not only) wines adds the finishing touch to an excellent, sun-drenched meal…

This gorgeous old Provençal bastide on the outskirts of Avignon upholds the hospitality traditions of the country inns of yesteryear devoted to good food and good cheer. Noble produce and classicism take front stage here, illustrated by loin of cod sautéed on a slice of bread with a trio of celery, leeks and peanuts, although the occasional more modern creation can also be found. Southern Côte du Rhône wines take pride of place in the cellar. Lovely terrace in fine weather and polished service.

The restaurant's name hints at a love of nature, as fostered by Frédérique, who grows flowers and aromatic herbs for her husband Frédéric, a chef who puts them to good use in his dishes. Their restaurant showcases well-constructed and fragrant modern cuisine with Mediterranean influences. The menu-carte is the product of local, often organic, ingredients, with vegetables taking pride of place. We enjoyed tucking into a starter starring delicately smoked fresh goat's cheese ravioli, courgettes and verbena broth for its crystal-clear freshness, then the meagre accompanied by a briny beurre blanc