la ferme des ruelles

In the heart of Fontainebleau, this smart, low-key restaurant is the HQ of a Japanese chef who orchestrates a new take on pure-bred Gallic gastronomy whilst scrupulously respecting the seasons. Kunihisa Goto is a fan of French cuisine, wines and iconic produce. After training with the best, he reinvents the classics with panache, incorporating a host of Japanese ingredients: daikon, lotus roots, nori, shiso leaves, Wagyu beef… His version of the slow-cooked egg has become a must. Each dish is a masterclass of plating, balanced flavours and gourmet indulgence. Attentive, courteous service.

What are two Australian chefs (with stints at Yard, Spring, Bones and Au Passage) doing in the heart of the grounds of Saint Vrain Castle, more precisely in the tastefully refurbished former stables? Well, they are knocking up spot-on food, sourced directly from the estate’s huge cottage garden, which actually existed before the restaurant, using fruit and vegetables that are harvested only when perfectly ripe. A fine dining experience that mingles rural charm and gourmet delights, overlooking the surrounding countryside. Guestrooms available for overnight stays. Booking compulsory.

In the centre of Fontainebleau, Fuumi is the teppanyaki outpost of starred chef Kunihisa Goto. Authentic Japanese fare, crafted directly in front of diners, particularly if you are lucky enough to nab one of the counter seats that command the best view of the culinary performance. The banquet of gyozas, ramen and okonomiyaki, the house specialty, illustrates the infinite care lavished on each dish. The attractively priced Bento lineup at lunchtime (teishoku menu), with a soup, small sides and a choice of main course, is just the ticket for a delicious snack. Friendly, buzzy vibe. Bookings high

Located on a pedestrian street, this restaurant pays homage to hunting and culinary competitions: the chef, a finalist in the Lièvre à la Royale Championship, is also a fan of pâté en croûte. Meat dominates the menu – oreiller de la belle Aurore; fillet of guinea fowl, grilled green beans, shiso leaf tempura and offal sauce, not to mention the carefully prepared desserts. Small terrace.

Diners come here for the atmosphere and tastes of Spain, especially Asturias, where the family who own the place hail from. On the menu, you'll find top-notch ingredients, succulent Iberian recipes – Iberian pork pluma, paella bodega (chicken, chorizo, cuttlefish, mussels and prawns), salt cod with aïoli, delicious turrón for dessert – as well as some daily specials. You won't be disappointed!

This former coaching inn run by Yohann Giraud, a chef who has worked in several Michelin-starred restaurants, has a pleasantly hushed atmosphere. On the menu: dishes bursting with flavour, such as the signature macaroni stuffed with foie gras, celeriac and tartufata au gratin with parmesan, cream and a veal jus, or the oh-so-delicate millefeuille with a caramel sauce. The charming service completes the picture.