Evasion
Written by WLE
If gastronomy is at the heart of your travel plans, here is a curated selection of exceptional restaurants—celebrated for their cuisine, setting, and service—scattered along the French Mediterranean coast.
The signature restaurant of renowned chef Alain Ducasse is a true institution on the French Riviera. Awarded three Michelin stars, it is widely considered a destination worth traveling to Monaco for on its own. For those seeking an extraordinary gastronomic experience, this is the place to indulge in Mediterranean cuisine reimagined by two exceptional chefs: Alain Ducasse and Emmanuel Pilon. Here, each dish is a refined tribute to the Riviera’s finest ingredients, interpreted with a modern, lighter touch.
Head sommelier Hélène Tessera enhances every flavor with one of the world’s most remarkable wine cellars, while the service remains warm and attentive throughout. Book with complete confidence, and well in advance.
Another three-Michelin-starred destination to add to your list is Mirazur, led by chef Mauro Colagreco. A pioneer of circular gastronomy, he places the environment at the heart of his culinary philosophy. Drawing from five hectares of biodynamic and permaculture gardens, his dishes are composed exclusively of local ingredients, thoughtfully combined to elevate their natural flavors with precision and creativity. Named “World’s Best Restaurant” in 2019, Mirazur is more than a restaurant, it embodies a way of life, set in seamless harmony with nature, and offering breathtaking views over the Riviera, from the Mediterranean Sea to the peaks of the Alps. As with many exceptional tables, be sure to plan ahead and reserve well in advance.
An iconic address in Nice, Le Plongeoir dates back to 1941, when architect René Livieri transformed a fishing boat perched on a rock six meters above the sea into a restaurant. Connected to the shore by a narrow footbridge, Le Plongeoir is as celebrated for its unique setting as it is for its sun-drenched, generous cuisine, built around fresh, seasonal ingredients of the highest quality. If you enjoy fish, this is the obvious choice. The restaurant is often fully booked for dinner, as guests gather to take in the sunset to the sound of the waves, but it’s always worth trying your luck.
Set between Nice and Monaco, Èze is a stunning medieval village perched high above the coastline, often referred to as the “jewel” of the French Riviera. Rising nearly 500 meters above sea level, it offers breathtaking views that alone are worth the visit. And while you’re in this storied and iconic setting, extend the experience at one of the two gastronomic restaurants that have shaped its reputation. The first, La Chèvre d’Or, is led by chef Tom Meyer. Awarded two Michelin stars, it is a Riviera institution, much like the five-star hotel that houses it. From Elizabeth Taylor to Leonardo DiCaprio, along with countless members of royalty, La Chèvre d’Or continues to attract a distinguished clientele. Château Eza, also Michelin-starred, offers another exceptional dining experience, with Mediterranean cuisine that is internationally acclaimed. In summer, its large bay windows open fully, allowing guests to take in the sweeping views in their entirety.
Set your sights on Cap d’Ail, just a few kilometers southwest of Monte Carlo, home to a more discreet yet equally noteworthy address: La Pinède. We love this spot for its stunning setting, which can be enjoyed in a sense of quiet intimacy, and its enveloping atmosphere. Here, everything is color, sunlight, and warmth—a more playful expression of the Riviera. Chef Mickael Pinard brings that same brightness to his Mediterranean dishes, infusing them with generosity and flavor. The mood is
convivial, much like the menu, built around generous plates meant for sharing. The cuisine is simple and well executed, with top-quality ingredients. For a refined lunch under the pines in a relaxed setting, this is the place to be.
It’s hard to imagine a stay along the coast without planning a stop in Saint-Tropez. Beyond its jet-set image, this charming village captures the true spirit of Provence, from its picturesque markets to the simple pleasures of seaside living at its finest. If
you’re lucky enough to spend time here, chef Arnaud Donckele is renowned for his exceptional cuisine at La Vague d’Or, a gastronomic restaurant dedicated to Mediterranean flavors. With three Michelin stars, five toques, and a 19/20 rating from Gault & Millau (a leading authority in French gastronomy), it is a must for any food lover seeking a truly unforgettable experience. La Vague d’Or is open only for dinner and requires booking in advance.
