L'Heure Bleue gîtes et chambres d'hôtes

This spruce, endearing bistro on the main square of Illies is smoothly and passionately run by former Top Chef contestant, Christophe Pirotais and his partner Julie Dieudonné. Their gutsy indulgent cuisine is unveiled in an inspired, big-boned surprise menu, illustrated by a delicate pannacotta of white asparagus with radish-flavoured ice cream or a fillet of seabream escorted by chickpea fritters and a creamy jus of smoked herring roe. The welcome is warm and cheerful and the service is as smooth as a silky bearnaise sauce. Lovely rear patio for alfresco dining in fine weather.

Chic but not chichi, this hotel restaurant charms with its deftly crafted cuisine and delicious dishes. Chef Loïc Constant has been delighting diners for over 15 years, thanks to quality ingredients, a sure hand and a touch of generosity. Tuck into a simple yet irresistible carpaccio of sea bass with cayenne pepper, before indulging in divine house-made profiteroles. The attentive and efficient service perfectly rounds off the experience, as you dine in the presence of stars of the silver screen, whose portraits hang on the walls in silver frames.

Chef Sébastien Renard (who appeared as a contestant on Top Chef) has taken over the sumptuous premises of his mentor, the great chef Marc Meurin. This red-brick mansion is truly magnificent, and its bar and elegant glass roof lend it undeniable flair. The young chef, who hails from the region, shows his firm commitment to local produce by showcasing local ingredients and championing their suppliers. He serves up a carte blanche-style set menu that leaves no doubt as to his technical expertise: squid tagliatelle with apple, celery and ginger; monkfish tail with a medley of white asparagus and h