B&B HOTEL Avignon (1)

As you explore the winding lanes of Avignon, you may come upon this attractive restaurant with a large open-plan kitchen. The chefs deliver the food to the table themselves, while you drink up the savvy tips of an enthusiastic sommelier, who is something of a connoisseur of biodynamic wines. Mathieu Desmarest crafts a surprise menu depicted by legible, pared-down, balanced dishes, courtesy of seasonal produce sourced from local suppliers, enabling him to make the most of this cornucopia of impeccable ingredients (octopus, bluefin tuna, pigeon). The subtle and creative recipes and marriages of

Near Avignon, this remote Provençal farmhouse set between cliffs and vineyards does not compromise on authenticity. The scents of the garrigue fill the tastefully renovated interior, which sports a harmonious blend of period details and modern fittings. In the kitchen, Maxime is assisted by his father, Serge Chenet, Meilleur Ouvrier de France. The pair share a love of all things natural and the seasonal ingredients bursting with the flavours of this sun-drenched region. These Bretons, who haven't turned their backs on the staples of butter and cream, work together to concoct a tasty Provençal-

Red mullet, courgettes, peppers, artichokes and olive oil: chef Julien Gleize celebrates Provence on a picturesque square of the City of Popes, courtesy of drool-worthy dishes jazzed up with herbs and spices and a fondness for produce from the Atlantic. A seasonal score packed with flavour to be sampled in an urban interior dotted with vintage details or on a shaded terrace by a refreshing fountain.

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.

Clinging to the ramparts of a historical village, this Maison is the quintessence of Provençal art de vivre. The chef crafts vibrant, flavoursome dishes, such as a supreme of free-range poultry, sweet corn and different textures of parsnip, together with a lineup of wickedly addictive, decadent desserts. Superlative sweeping view over Mont Ventoux and the Luberon mountain range from the terrace.

Italia Palladino's second restaurant (the other being Italie Là-Bas), Café Roma boasts a prime location in the historical centre, at the foot of one of the towers of the Palais des Papes – admire the view from the terrace. The colourful interior decor with large golden mirrors adds to the charm. The dishes showcase the generous and fragrant flavours of the Mediterranean, incorporating the occasional Asian influence: grilled prawns glazed with ginger and soy sauce, Thai-style black rice served with swordfish and caponata.

This friendly restaurant is decorated in vibrant colours and is set in a 19C townhouse. It serves seasonal cuisine based on fresh local produce, which can be enjoyed in the courtyard when the weather is fine.