#GUIDES
22 December, 2022
Where the Mediterannean’s azure waters meet picture-postcard resort towns: Our French Riviera travel guide
Published
31 January, 2023
Edited
9 June, 2023
Gleaming aquamarine shores lined with yachts and golden beaches - the Côte d'Azur is home to some of the most stunning seaside scenery in the whole of Europe. But there’s something else this idyllic stretch of coast is renowned for - its exceptional collection of Michelin-star establishments that embody the longstanding prestige of fine, French cuisine.
A match made in heaven - tucking into a fresh lobster or a hearty bouillabaisse with the shimmering waters of the Mediterranean as your backdrop. Whether you’re planning an unforgettable date night or perhaps looking for somewhere nearby your villa in the French Riviera to take the family for an extra-special dinner, here are five of the best Côte d'Azur restaurants with Michelin stars.
Taking inspiration from both the land and sea, La Flibuste has an ever-changing menu that adapts to the seasons and the local produce which is sourced each day.
Sat right beside the harbour in Villeneuve-Loubet, this acclaimed eatery is renowned for its beautifully-presented and creative plates imagined by the restaurant’s talented head chef, Nicolas Thomas. No two days are alike, so you won’t find any set dishes or menus here - instead, a daily food and wine pairing is offered during lunch and dinner hours.
Just a five-minute stroll from Nice’s harbour, JAN offers something a little different. This intimate 18-seat French Riviera restaurant serves a unique fusion of South African and French cuisine, resulting in a diverse menu that offers something for every palate; from the bold, spicy flavours of traditional bobotie to the gently smoked aromas of the restaurant’s beautifully cooked fish dishes - all prepared with the freshest ingredients from local farmers and artisans.
With an elevated terrace overlooking the brilliant blues of the Baie De Cassis, La Villa Madie is a lovely spot to enjoy lunch while soaking up the golden sunshine of Provence. A combined effort of two chefs, both of which have worked in some of Paris’ most esteemed restaurants; Marielle and Dimitri Droisneau have created a menu that focuses on seasonal produce, sourced straight from the restaurant’s own gardens and orchards.
If you’re all about location, then 3-Star-Michelin Mirazur is sure to please. Sat right at the foot of a mountain and overlooking the glimmering Mediterranean Sea, this renowned restaurant is a short drive from the idyllic town of Menton (and less than 200 yards from the France–Italy border). Depending on the day you visit, you’ll get the chance to sample one of four menus, each with a distinct inspiration; roots, plants, flowers, and fruits - a great many, if not all, of which have been harvested fresh from the local area.
Boasting three Michelin stars - and a mightily impressive 19/20 score from Gault & Millau - La Vague d'Or offers a dining experience like no other. Nestled beside the sandy shores of Plage de la Bouillabaisse in Saint-Tropez, the setting alone of this top restaurant is enough to inspire its guests. At its helm is Chef Arnaud Donckele, who has carefully curated two tasting menus that highlight the very best produce from the Mediterranean.
Easily one of the top destinations for fine dining in Saint-Tropez, it’s worth booking well in advance to secure your table here.
Here at onefinestay, we offer more than just a carefully-curated collection of handpicked villas along the Côte d'Azur. To ensure our guests enjoy an unforgettable experience throughout their stay, we offer a fabulous selection of exclusive concierge services. From private chefs and in-house spa treatments to planning all your exciting activities and adventures, just let us take care of everything on your behalf. With all of these lovely extras arranged well before your arrival, you can make the most of your well-deserved time away.