Brit Hotel Essentiel Tours Sud

You only have to take a look at chef Jérôme Roy’s star-studded CV (Gagnaire and Troisgros, together with a star earned at the Couvent des Minimes at Mane) to know he has an ambitious roadmap! Born in Loches, he has returned to his roots in the company of his spouse, and together they have created this smart, trendy venue. Roy deftly crafts modern, creative fare that keeps pace with the seasons and is meticulously sourced: sautéed scallops in a stock of the scallop frills, dried lime and Aleppo pepper; lamb in provençal herbs, artichoke and samphire; segments of pink grapefruit marinated in spi

This pretty little manor house on the outskirts of town has recently been refurbished and modernised, all the way from the decoration to the kitchens, the domain of chef Maximilien Bridier. Taking an enthusiastic approach to high-quality ingredients, he presents elegant, precise dishes with no frills. Without fail, the menu features a vegetarian option. There is a fine selection of wines by the glass, and the service is attentive. Sit out on the terrace on warm days.

A restored farmstead nestling in the midst of sprawling private woodland houses an unconventional property guided by foraging. Wild plants are picked on the estate and the veggies are from the permaculture cottage garden and neighbouring organic farm, acquired by the owners, all of which sets the scene for unexpected creative cuisine. The dining room is wood-rich, while lodges on stilts and artwork set the scene outdoors. The single set several course menu may include green pea and wild sorrel ice cream, flame-licked mackerel and buds of wild brambles or foie gras wrapped in woodland smartweed

This gourmet bistro, so popular that it is often taken by storm (bookings advisable), is established in a residential neighbourhood near Prébendes garden and flanked by a summer patio. Sincerity depicts the seasonal dishes chalked up on a slate, all of which washed down with delicious Loire wines.

Right next to the Halles des Tours, the city's covered market, Olivier Arlot has opened his new restaurant in an elegant and imposing white building. There is an open kitchen, chef's table, central bench, and monumental wine cabinet; the tables are artfully laid and the lounges upstairs are filled with light. In line with today's take on traditional cuisine, the talented chef indulges himself (and us) by showcasing premium ingredients with skill and generosity: veal grenadine rubbed with black pepper, creamy bacon. The impressive wine list holds its own, with over 600 labels.

A zen and minimalist interior all done out in pale wood sets the scene for traditional, seasonal Japanese cuisine that stands out for its fresh, unusual flavours: assortment of cold starters and tempura of the day, chirashi (traditional dish of raw fish), a hot dish of the day and miso soup. Booking essential.

The name of this bistro pays tribute to a great chef of the last century and celebrates the joys of cooking. The concise menu highlights the changing seasons and regional produce (asparagus, snails, freshwater fish). A flair for seasoning makes for simple and tasty food, such as white asparagus mimosa, broccoli and vadouvan. There are only a few tables, so be sure to book!