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Scintillating sea views and spectacular dining experiences: The very best Michelin-Starred restaurants on the French Riviera

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.

Sun, sea, and haute 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.

La Flibuste

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.

JAN

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.

La Villa Madie

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.

Mirazur

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.

La Vague d'Or

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.

The onefinestay experience

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.

Fabulous feasts await in the French Riviera

PLANNING A GETAWAY TO THE FRENCH RIVIERA? SPEAK TO ONE OF OUR TRAVEL ADVISORS TO BEGIN PLANNING YOUR NEXT HOLIDAY IN THE SOUTH OF FRANCE.