Our List Of The Best Restaurants In South Of France
Source: The Empire City Wire
LOUROC - HÔTEL DU CAP-EDEN-ROC
Louroc is a culinary gem nestled within the prestigious Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, which is perched on the stunning French Riviera along the Mediterranean coastline. Due to the high cost of staying here, the hotel and it’s associated restaurants and bars scattered across the property have historically been pretty under the radar to international tourists.
Louroc literally translates to the “rock” which is aptly named given it is nestled on a rock on the southern tip of the Cap d'Antibes as part of the Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc.
The restaurant is renowned for its idyllic setting, impeccable service, and delectable cuisine, making it a quintessential dining experience. The restaurant also has a Michelin Star which they highlight proudly on their website.
The dining areas are thoughtfully designed to maximize the breathtaking views of the azure sea, often filled with mega-yachts and sailboats of the ultra-wealthy or European royalty. Guests can choose to dine al fresco on a beautiful terrace, where they are enveloped by the gentle sea breeze, or inside the charming Provençal-style dining room, which exudes a timeless, refined ambiance.
The menu at Louroc is a celebration of Mediterranean flavors and the finest French cuisine. The food is fresh, contains locally sourced ingredients, and is expertly prepared by talented chefs. Dishes often feature the region's seafood, including succulent fish and shellfish, along with garden-fresh vegetables and herbs. The culinary journey here extends from classic Provençal recipes to contemporary interpretations, all accompanied by an extensive wine list featuring French and international selections. There are multiple ways to enjoy your meal at Louroc but if it is your first time, nothing beats their six course price fixed meal.
Service at Louroc is a blend of professionalism and warmth, befitting the renowned hospitality of Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc. Whether you're a guest at the hotel or a visitor seeking a memorable dining experience, the staff ensures that every aspect of your meal is executed flawlessly, from the moment you sit down to the final sip of your wine.
Louroc at Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc is not merely a restaurant; it's a place where the beauty of nature meets the artistry of cuisine, offering an unforgettable dining experience that lingers in the memory long after the last dish has been savored.
Source: The Empire City Wire
LE CAVEAU 30
Le Caveau 30, aptly named Cellar 30 in English, stands as a venerable cornerstone of Cannes, its reputation as an institution is deeply embedded in the hearts of locals and visitors alike.
The restaurant has an extensive menu filled with fish and meat options. There is also a prix fixe option available at a very reasonable price relative to the surrounding restaurants in the area.
The restaurant is also frequented by attendees of the illustrious Cannes Film Festival. Diners can enjoy their meals while surrounded by images of iconic figures from the film industry, making it a favorite spot for festival-goers and a must-visit destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the film festival's vibrant atmosphere.
To ensure a seamless dining experience, reservations are highly recommended. The restaurant's first floor offers a captivating view of the port of Cannes, with a seating capacity of 120, setting the stage for an enchanting meal with the azure Mediterranean waters as your backdrop. From the second floor, diners can see the bay of Cannes.
Additionally, for those seeking an even more intimate dining experience, Caveau 30 features three private rooms on the first floor, each accommodating 30 to 40 guests, allowing for an exclusive gathering with an emphasis on personalized service. The experience doesn't stop there—Caveau 30 extends its charm to a second floor, beckoning diners to explore further and discover the various layers of its captivating ambiance.
Source: The Empire City Wire
LA MAISON DE BACON
Situated in the enchanting landscape of Cap d'Antibes, La Maison de Bacon was meticulously renovated and adorned with thoughtful decor and now boasts an array of distinct dining spaces that cater to a variety of experiences, promising a culinary journey unlike any other.
Upon entering the premises, guests are greeted by an expansive lounge bar area beckoning them to unwind and immerse themselves in the seaside ambiance. A bioclimatic veranda gallery introduces an innovative touch, offering an intimate setting that allows patrons to relish their meals while being bathed in natural light.
The restaurant is known for its seafood and also the bouillabaisse. Bouillabaisse is a traditional Provençal fish stew originating from the port city of Marseille, located in the South of France. This iconic dish is celebrated for its rich flavors, unique preparation, and deep cultural significance in the region.
Bouillabaisse is made with a variety of fresh Mediterranean fish, such as rascasse, sea robin, and European conger, along with shellfish like mussels and shrimp. The dish also includes aromatic vegetables like leeks, onions, tomatoes, and fennel. These ingredients are simmered together with a flavorful blend of garlic, saffron, olive oil, and herbs such as thyme and bay leaves. The soup is often served with a side of rouille, a garlicky mayonnaise, and crusty bread.
Their service is courteous and exceptional. A meal at Bacon will be remembered for years and decades later, and it is an experience not to be missed.
Source: The Empire City Wire
AUX BONS ENFANTS
Located within the historical heart of Cannes, the charming establishment of Aux Bons Enfants serves as a neighborhood favorite.
The culinary legacy of the Giorsetti family, which manages the restaurant, spans three generations. Their kitchen serves as the very DNA that has bound them to their passion. Naturally gravitating towards the culinary realm, Luc Giorsetti embraced the family legacy and stepped into the shoes of his grandmother who opened the restaurant in 1935. The establishment not only pays homage to their culinary heritage but also encapsulates the essence of genuine French cuisine, keeping the flame of tradition alive with every delectable dish served.
A visit to Aux Bons Enfants is a journey of culinary delight, with the prix fixe menu offering an array of unforgettable experiences. One dish served of figs paired with grilled brie showcases a rich combination, where the creamy texture of the cheese elegantly compliments the muted sweetness of the figs.
Another standout creation is the intoxicating rum baba, steeped in a generous bath of rum, leaving diners with a delightful and slightly tipsy culinary memory. Each dish curated within the walls of this esteemed establishment is not merely a plate of food but a manifestation of the restaurant's commitment to excellence, tradition, and the relentless pursuit of culinary artistry.
Source: The Empire City Wire
LE COSI
Le Cosi restaurant in Cannes provides guests with a night of culinary delight and sensory indulgence. Like many of the other restaurants in Cannes’ old town, the restaurants has outdoor and indoor seating.
Soft lighting and tasteful decor contribute to an inviting space, perfectly setting the stage for an unforgettable dining experience.
The star of the evening was an impeccably prepared dish of sliced duck breast that left a lasting impression. The chef's meticulous marination rendered the duck exquisitely tender and full of flavor. With the first bite, the rich and succulent meat paired harmoniously with a sauce infused with various herbs de Provence. The fragrant blend of thyme, rosemary, and oregano captivates the taste buds, each bite revealing new layers of complexity.
One specific ingredient in the sauce unified the entire dish—a gentle hint of cinnamon intertwined with the herbs. This subtle addition brought out an intriguing depth into the flavor profile, establishing a balance in the sauce that was both daring and refined.
Every aspect of the dining experience at La Cosi reflected the chef's dedication to crafting an unforgettable culinary journey, leaving cherished memories.
Source: The Empire City Wire
TABLE 22
A few steps away from the Croisette and the Palais des Festivals, at the foot of the picturesque neighbourhood of the Suquet, Table 22 stands as a culinary gem that beckons both locals and discerning travelers seeking an authentic French dining experience.
To further underscore its culinary excellence, Table 22 has earned a coveted spot in the Michelin Guide, a distinction that speaks volumes about the caliber of its cuisine. Such recognition is a testament to the dedication of the restaurant's chefs and staff in consistently delivering exceptional dining experiences.
The restaurant serves a delicious steak, often paired with flavorful vegetables and classic sauces like bordelaise. It's clear that freshness is a priority here—the ingredients are locally sourced, with vegetables that are hand-picked from the market, adding depth and vibrancy to each dish.
Table 22 is not just a restaurant; it's a culinary landmark in Cannes where the soul of Provence is artfully plated and savored with every delightful bite.
Source: The Empire City Wire
CARLTON RIVIERA RESTAURANT
In a grand revival that marked March 2023 as a significant moment in the culinary scene of Cannes, the Carlton Riviera Restaurant, nestled within the illustrious Carlton Hotel, made its triumphant return. This dining establishment, steeped in tradition and renowned for its enduring elegance, serves as a quintessential French brasserie.
Seafood, in all its glory, takes center stage on the menu, reflecting the rich maritime heritage of Cannes. Whether it’s a platter of succulent shellfish or a meticulously prepared fish fillet, each dish offers a sensory voyage that honors the ocean’s bounty.
While the emphasis is clearly on seafood, the Carlton Riviera Restaurant also delivers when it comes to steak. The meat offerings are of excellent quality and serve as a satisfying alternative for those who want a break from seafood.
Enhancing the experience is the restaurant’s enchanting patio terrace, offering a panoramic view of the azure Mediterranean—a setting that transforms each meal into a memorable encounter with both cuisine and nature.
Guests can also enjoy many of the same menu items at the Carlton Beach Club, a glamorous extension of the hotel’s legacy, where the picturesque shores of Cannes invite relaxation and indulgence.
Though this level of refinement comes at a price, the Carlton Riviera Restaurant exemplifies the belief that true quality demands no compromise. Every dish is a carefully crafted masterpiece. It’s a dining experience that rises above the ordinary, inviting guests to savor the extraordinary amid the timeless charm of Cannes and the Carlton Hotel.
Source: The Empire City Wire
CONCLUSION
Dining is more than just a meal in the South of France; it's a cultural celebration of flavors, ingredients, and traditions. In this article, we've embarked on a journey through some of the best restaurants that this region has to offer, each one a testament to the artistry of Mediterranean cuisine.
Each restaurant we've visited showcases the vibrant tapestry of flavors that this region is famous for, from the freshest seafood to the fragrant herbs of the countryside. Yet, beyond the delectable dishes, it's the ambiance, the stunning vistas, and the warm hospitality that elevate dining here into an unforgettable experience.
One thing is abundantly clear: this corner of the world is a paradise for food lovers. Whether you're planning a gastronomic pilgrimage to the South of France or simply seeking inspiration for your next restaurant visit, we hope this list has whetted your appetite.
So, raise your glass of local wine, toast to the flavors of the Mediterranean, and prepare for a dining experience that will leave you with memories to savor long after you've left this enchanting corner of the world. Bon appétit!
