If Fine Dining is something you are passionate about a visit to the French Riviera is a must.
On this stretch of coast there are no fewer than 10 restaurants with two Michelin stars and a single culinary giant with three -Alain Ducasse’s Le Louis XV at the Hôtel de Paris in Monte Carlo.
The Lux Traveller suggests to start your journey in Monte Carlo and then head west, along the sinuous Moyenne Corniche to Eze, taking in the two-star La Chèvre d’Or and the Gatsby-ish Cap Estel, where Garbo and Olivier stayed. From there continue on to Nice and up into the Alpes-Maritimes to Le Saint-Martin in Vence, where the current sensation, Yannick Franques, has been awarded two Michelin stars in as many years.
Le Louis XV
As said, in Monte Carlo there is the historical Louis XV, a stylish belle époque restaurant of world renown chef Alain Ducasse. Louis XV is located in the Hotel de Paris. Guests have an option to either dine on the outside terrace with views of the Place du Casino or inside in a spectacular dining room fit for a king. This restaurant is also well known for its wine cellar located just under the Place du Casino with the most amazing selection of French wines (Petrus, Cheval Blanc, Mouton Rotschild, etc). This is formal dining and you have to dress smart.
The Grill
On the top floor of Hotel de Paris you also have the Grill, famous for the grilled meat presented on a high broche. Around 10 pm the roof magically opens and you can see the stars! Romantic dinner on the terrace will be unforgettable!
Paloma Beach Restaurant
On Paloma Beach, situated on the rocky peninsula of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, there is an institution first opened in 1948. Since then it has been the ultimate place to see and be seen for lunch or dinner for the Hollywood actors, European aristocracy and international millionaires. Guests can choose their fresh fish from a giant ice-box-wooden-boat. The setting is sophisticated and the service impressive. There also is a lounge area where one can relax with a glass of finest Provence wine.
Seaside Dining
Lined side by side on the Cannes coastlines are many private beach restaurants, each with something to offer. At Miramar Plage, on the eastern side of the Croisette, it’s seafood. The fresh fish is presented by the chef on silver platters for the guest’s choosing.
Provence
Right outside Lorgues in Provence, southern France (not too far from Cannes) is Chez Bruno – a wonderful garden restaurant that specializes in truffles. While truffles seemed to be part of most dishes, the whole menu is a culinary delight. Wonderfully friendly and courteous staff and a perfect table on the terrace make this a truly memorable evening.
Enjoy the culinary journey of the South of France. The Lux Traveller certainly did!
