€€€Modern Cuisine
La Flèche d'Argent – the name is a nod to the incredible "Silver Arrows" Mercedes-Benz Formula 1 cars of the 1930s – references the nearby Circuit de Charade racetrack. In a plush decor, chef Clément Lorente serves up his contemporary cuisine in a multi-course set menu format. His dishes display excellent technique and incorporate creative touches. The ingredients are of the highest quality: foie gras from the Plaine de Limagne, artichokes from Roussillon, saffron from Mazayes, bluefin tuna from the Mediterranean. For dessert, a tribute to the chef's grandmother's Agen prune flan is a real hit
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.7/5 · 80 reviews
La Flèche d'Argent in Royat offers modern cuisine with an average rating of 4.7/5 from 80 reviews. Most guests praise the originality and presentation of the 7-course or 5-course menus, noting the chef's friendly engagement. Service is generally commended, particularly the sommelier's pairings and the pleasant atmosphere. However, negative feedback highlights issues such as greasy dishes, overcooked meat, slow pacing, and staff unfamiliarity with specific ingredients. Some reviewers also mention dated decor or controversial styling, along with paid parking. While the majority experience high-quality food and attentive service, isolated incidents of culinary inconsistency and service lapses suggest variability in the dining experience.
Suitable for diners seeking refined modern French cuisine who can tolerate occasional service inconsistencies.
€€€Modern Cuisine
Sonney, near Place de Jaude, is the surname of the chef's great-grandmother and references the sonnet with its fourteen-line structure. The restaurant is run by chefs Caroline Vallance and Benjamin Faure, a couple who are 100% committed to this very personal project of theirs. Everything is made from scratch, from the bread to the ice cream; the decor of this intimate setting, designed from recycled materials, is also their own. Benjamin Faure composes a 14-dish "poem" inspired by family memories and the Auvergne terroir. A sincere and down-to-earth place.
€€Modern Cuisine
This modern, cosily appointed eatery serves appetising market-fresh bistro nosh: salad with foie gras, gravlax salmon, French toast made with brioche bread, millefeuille pastry and vanilla ice cream... Concise blackboard lineup and a simpler, very affordable lunchtime menu.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.2/5 · 80 reviews
Based on 80 reviews, L'Écureuil holds an average rating of 4.2/5. Service and food quality are frequently praised, with guests highlighting friendly staff, quick service, and fresh, well-presented dishes. The atmosphere is generally described as warm and welcoming, suitable for people-watching. However, negative feedback often cites poor value for money, with some finding portions insufficient or prices high relative to expectations. Specific complaints include slow pacing, cold food items, missing cutlery, and occasional hygiene concerns. While most experiences are positive, visitors should be aware of potential service inconsistencies during peak hours and varying perceptions of portion sizes.
Suitable for diners prioritizing service and ambiance, but manage expectations regarding portion sizes and value.
€€Modern Cuisine
This contemporary bistro in the art gallery district proposes a series of moments of pure culinary indulgence crafted by a chef with an impressive CV (Ritz, Lasserre, Plaza). Veal, poultry and pork pâté en croûte, beef braised for 12hr in a cocotte, roasted fillet of sea bass with beurre noisette, crème brûlée… Traditional dishes, in all their simplicity.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.7/5 · 80 reviews
Located in Chamalières, L'Instantané offers modern home-style cuisine. Food quality is generally praised, with highlights including seafood linguine, pulled beef with aligot, and homemade desserts like crème brûlée. Ingredients are noted for freshness, though some diners found seasoning lacking or portions small. Service is typically friendly and efficient, despite isolated complaints about unfriendliness. The atmosphere is cozy, but the lack of air conditioning makes it uncomfortably hot during summer heatwaves. Value perceptions vary; while many find prices reasonable, others consider the limited lunch menu overpriced. Reservations are essential due to the small capacity.
Ideal for diners seeking authentic home-style cooking who can tolerate summer heat; reservations are essential.
€€Modern Cuisine
This restaurant within the Stade Marcel-Michelin names its set menus after rugby terminology ("Forward Pass", "Grand Slam" and "Chistera"). They showcase contemporary dishes made with ingredients sourced from the Massif Central. Designed in the spirit of a modern brasserie, the dining room affords panoramic views of the stadium and has a terrace that looks out over the Chaîne des Puys.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.6/5 · 80 reviews
Located in Clermont-Ferrand, L'En-but offers modern cuisine with views of the stadium. Most guests praise the refined cooking, quality ingredients, and friendly, humorous service, particularly recommending the 'Brennus' menu and seafood dishes. The wine list features local selections with professional sommelier advice. However, some reviews note small portions resembling samples, while others cite slow pacing, warm cocktails, and service errors. Overall, the restaurant receives high marks for presentation and team atmosphere, though individual experiences vary. Diners sensitive to portion sizes should verify expectations beforehand.
Suitable for diners seeking refined modern cuisine and attentive service, though those sensitive to portion sizes should proceed with caution.
€€€Modern Cuisine
A stone's throw from the remains of the ramparts of the Montferrand district (once a rival town to Clermont), this cosy little restaurant with a vaulted ceiling serves seasonal cuisine that is carefully crafted and full of flavour. The short menu is divided into meat- or fish-based set menus ("tout terre" or "tout mer"). There is also a reasonably priced lunchtime menu that changes every week. The desserts are every bit as accomplished, among them an indulgent baba with warm spices, mulled wine sorbet and Corsican lemon cream. Small summer terrace to the rear.
€€Traditional Cuisine
On a minor road linking Clermont to the motorway, this red-shuttered country inn built out of volcanic stone overlooks the authentic, preserved countryside of the Puy de Dôme and Pariou. Tuck into a tasty, traditional Gallic lineup, assembled with top-drawer ingredients such as seared scallops from Erquy, Belgian endive and pleurote mushrooms in vin jaune, or ham stuffed with free-range chicken. Don’t even try to resist the wickedly tempting home-made Paris-Brest pastry for dessert. A friendly greeting and lovely rustic interior set the scene in this warm, inviting establishment.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.0/5 · 80 reviews
Located in Orcines, Auberge de la Fontaine du Berger specializes in traditional cuisine. Reviewers consistently praise the high quality of ingredients and careful preparation, particularly noting the tender, flavorful meat. Service is generally welcoming and professional, though some guests experienced slow pacing or indifferent attitudes. The atmosphere is warm and pleasant across seasons, despite occasional issues with noise or odors. The primary criticism revolves around value, with several diners finding portions insufficient relative to the cost. While the culinary experience is often impeccable, the pricing strategy has led to perceptions of poor value. Advance booking is recommended due to popularity.
Ideal for diners seeking authentic traditional flavors and high-quality meat, with advance booking recommended.
€€Modern Cuisine, Traditional Cuisine
In this restaurant with a festive and friendly atmosphere, Jackie and Christelle Flandin and team serve up their skilful and successfully modernised take on traditional cuisine. The lunch menu – presented verbally and served in the cosy and comfortable space – is full of shining examples: whiting and potato cromesquis served with a parsnip medley, or cabbage stuffed with braised cuttlefish, scallops and a braising jus infused with orange and passion fruit. The indulgence continues with the meticulously crafted desserts, such as a hazelnut and chocolate creation, highly nuanced in terms of both
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.6/5 · 80 reviews
Chante Bise in Vertaizon offers modern and traditional cuisine, generally praised for its creativity, fresh seasonal ingredients, and excellent seasoning. Dishes like foie gras terrine and poultry supreme receive high marks, alongside homemade desserts. Service is typically welcoming, and the ambiance includes a pleasant terrace. However, some guests cite value concerns, noting high prices relative to portion sizes or service speed. Occasional complaints involve slow pacing, minor service errors, and inconsistent food quality. While many enjoy a delightful culinary experience, others find the cost unjustified for the portions provided.
Suitable for diners prioritizing creative cuisine and ambiance over strict value-for-money.
€€Traditional Cuisine
Not far from Le Mont-Dore, authenticity is guaranteed in this inn, where the dining area was originally a cowshed! Fresh ingredients and copious portions of tasty traditional cuisine, such as tender pork cheeks, home-made potato purÉe and Saint-PourÇain white wine sauce… even if the chef allows himself a few incursions into more contemporary territory, with dishes such as salmon gravlax.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.6/5 · 80 reviews
Located in Le Mont-Dore, La Golmotte occupies a charming converted stable with a cozy, well-spaced atmosphere. Reviews frequently praise the refined, generous traditional cuisine, fresh ingredients, and excellent desserts, alongside warm, knowledgeable service. However, value is a mixed point; some find prices high relative to portions. Negative feedback highlights inconsistent food quality, including overly salty starters or sweet desserts, and occasional issues with meat preparation. Operational challenges include difficulty securing weekday evening reservations and poor telephone communication. While the ambiance and general service are reliable, culinary execution varies, making advance booking essential.
Suitable for diners seeking traditional cuisine in a rustic setting; advance reservation is highly recommended.
€€Modern Cuisine
Between the railway station and the picturesque René Cassin Square, Jérémy Bonhivers crafts an inspired culinary score. Delicate, tasty recipes, subtly perfumed with flowers, herbs and young shoots set the scene for colourful, exquisitely plated dishes. To be sampled either in the minimalist dining room or, weather permitting, on the covered terrace and patio abutting the square.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.8/5 · 80 reviews
Le P'tit Roseau in Issoire specializes in modern cuisine. Most reviews highlight high food quality, warm service, and a harmonious atmosphere, praising the chef's skill and refined presentation. Many note good value for money. However, some negative feedback cites inconsistent meal pacing, bland starters (e.g., sea bream ceviche), dry duck breast, and occasional rudeness from staff. While generally recommended for its character and culinary passion, experiences vary. It suits diners seeking refined modern food, though consistency may fluctuate.
Suitable for diners seeking refined modern cuisine who can tolerate occasional inconsistencies.
€€Modern Cuisine
This bistro with its hip Scandinavian-inspired decor specialises in seasonal, local ingredients. Examples of the deftly crafted, well-presented culinary pageant include pork chop from Breuil-sur-Couze, pressed aubergine in basil and chanterelles; apricot mousse, shiso and Auvergne honey ice cream.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.3/5 · 80 reviews
Agastache in Issoire offers modern cuisine with a 4.3/5 rating. Reviews highlight creative dishes, such as celery sorbet with goat cheese, emphasizing local ingredients and flavor fusion. Service is generally praised as friendly and efficient, with a cozy atmosphere. However, negative feedback focuses on insufficient portion sizes leading to hunger, overcooked main courses, and occasional service issues. Despite its slightly off-center location, many find the experience worthwhile, making it suitable for diners seeking novelty.
Suitable for diners willing to try creative cuisine with modest portion expectations.
€€Modern Cuisine, Traditional Cuisine
A wind of change is blowing through this family establishment (open since 1975), since the son Léo, who honed his skills in top establishments, has taken over the helm. Against a backdrop of woodland and the Monts du Forez, the interior has been revamped as has the updated lineup which stars regional produce (local game, fish from a nearby fish farm and cheese), founded on solid textbook foundations. The wickedly enticing desserts are the work of the chef’s mum, who also makes the delicious bread.
€€€Modern Cuisine
A few minutes from Vichy, in peaceful grounds, this château with towers and a water-filled moat (15C-19C) offers a contemporary and cosy decor, complemented by a beautiful terrace and some comfortable guestrooms. The restaurant has a refined setting and serves tasty seasonal cuisine.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.5/5 · 80 reviews
Located in Bellerive-sur-Allier, Château du Bost specializes in modern cuisine. Most reviews praise the refined, original dishes made from fresh local ingredients, highlighting balanced flavors and textures. Service is generally described as warm, attentive, and professional, contributing to a pleasant atmosphere. However, negative feedback points to inconsistent meal pacing, insufficient portion sizes leaving guests hungry, and rare instances of mishandling allergies. Some diners also find the pricing high relative to the quantity served, questioning the overall value. While the culinary experience is often exceptional, visitors should be aware of potential issues with service consistency and portion adequacy.
Suitable for diners seeking refined modern cuisine, with prior communication of dietary needs recommended.
€€Seafood
In his restaurant near the Parc des Sources, chef Gilles Ruyet prepares seafood dishes in a traditional vein: sole meunière, seared halibut with a beurre blanc sauce, not forgetting the crystallised orange soufflé with Grand Marnier – prepared by his daughter Marianne, who is also to be seen on the restaurant floor. Attractive contemporary decor, plus a view of the kitchen and the lobster tank.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.5/5 · 80 reviews
L'Hippocampe offers seafood-focused dining in Vichy with generally high ratings. Food quality is a standout, featuring perfectly cooked roasted langoustines, sweetbreads, and veal, with fresh ingredients and an engaging open kitchen. Service is mixed; while many praise the warm welcome, some report slow pacing or unattentive staff. The atmosphere benefits from air conditioning, though noise levels concern some guests. Value perception varies: the weekday lunch menu is considered excellent value, while dinner pricing draws criticism. Overall, it suits diners seeking high-quality seafood, provided they manage expectations regarding service consistency.
Ideal for diners prioritizing seafood quality and ambiance, with advance booking recommended.
€€Traditional Cuisine
Les Caudalies in Vichy has it all: a stylishly elegant dining room strewn with contemporary details, an appealing wine list with over 900 labels selected by Lucie, chef Emmanuel Basset’s wife, and a culinary line-up of tasty and generous dishes that tread a fine line between tradition and modernity. NB: check out the “cadole” dining area, between the wine cellar and the kitchen, which sports a vintner's lodge vibe.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.5/5 · 80 reviews
Located in Vichy, Les Caudalies specializes in traditional French cuisine. Reviews frequently praise the high-quality ingredients, authentic flavors, and elegant presentation, with some noting creative touches. Service is generally described as professional, warm, and attentive, though a minority report issues with coordination or responsiveness. The ambiance features an elegant Napoleon III-style decor with spacious table arrangements, creating a comfortable setting, although some find the interior slightly cold. Opinions on value diverge significantly; while many appreciate the experience, others criticize the fixed menu for offering excessive choices with insufficient portions relative to the cost, leading to mixed feedback on overall worth.
Suitable for travelers seeking a refined traditional French dining experience.
€€Modern Cuisine
Nestled in the spa district, the Fer à Cheval shopping mall surrounds the bandstand and the Source de l'Hôpital, which location lends it an undeniable charm. This is the setting in which chef Marlène Chaussemy has set up shop, creating an attractive contemporary decor for her restaurant. Opt for the dining area overlooking the park. By focusing on freshness and seasonality, this cuisine revolving around top-notch ingredients delivers on its promises: tender rack of pork, flavoursome parsnips, delicious delicately breaded black pudding, chocolate soufflé with ice cream and banana flambéed with
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.5/5 · 68 reviews
L’Écrin de Marlène offers modern French cuisine praised for its precise execution and high-quality flavors. Service is generally impeccable, contributing to an elegant atmosphere. However, some reviewers note that portion sizes are minimal, leaving diners unsatisfied. Pacing issues and proximity to noisy areas or the kitchen have been cited as drawbacks. While overall ratings are strong, opinions on value vary, with a minority expressing disappointment regarding service attitude and menu adherence.
Suitable for diners seeking refined modern French cuisine who are not concerned about large portion sizes.
€€Modern Cuisine
This restaurant moved into the premises of the former village school a few years ago. The delicate, flavoursome cuisine is definitely worth an A. Ten out of ten, too, for the chef, a lover of fine produce, who concocts precise, succulent recipes. Even better, it is excellent value for money - if only our school canteen had been like this!
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.9/5 · 80 reviews
La Petite École in Auzon is highly rated for its modern cuisine, earning a 4.9/5 average on TripAdvisor. Reviews highlight exquisite, innovative dishes made with fine ingredients, particularly noting exceptional fish preparations. Service is generally praised for its warmth and hospitality, though some guests mention occasional delays in meal pacing. The ambiance is charming, offering unique settings in a former schoolhouse or garden. While the food quality and presentation are consistently lauded, a few reviewers note that portion sizes may be small for larger appetites. Overall, it is regarded as a delightful culinary destination with a memorable atmosphere.
Ideal for diners seeking refined, innovative cuisine in a unique schoolhouse setting.
€€Modern Cuisine
We love this trendy contemporary bistro as much for its charming hospitality as for its tasty, up-to-the-minute cooking, such as a thick loin of cod, fregola sarda and poultry jus. The concise menu-carte, which ensures the freshness and quality of seasonal ingredients, is a steal at lunchtime! Don't miss the excellent cannelé, a nod to the couple's Bordeaux roots. There is a fine selection of wines on the blackboard.
€€Modern Cuisine
Ten kilometres outside Vichy in a village dominated by a 12C fortress, this inn is near a bridge over the Allier dating from the 1930s. In a contemporary interior, the owner-chef signs a single set, market-sourced menu at a bargain price and a more elaborate score in the evenings: roast tomatoes in aspic, espuma of stracciatella in a gazpacho or a ‘blesotto’ of bouchot mussels and cockles with a shellfish foam. When the weather is fine, the shady terrace overlooking the river is truly blissful!