Taste the Stars: Michelin Starred restaurants on the French Riviera
Michelin stars represent much more than prestigious awards in the culinary world; they signify excellence, reflect a chef’s commitment, and demonstrate a restaurant’s dedication to the highest dining standards. Originating from the Michelin Guide, initially created by the Michelin tire company as a way to encourage road travel (and thereby, tire sales), these stars have evolved into the ultimate mark of culinary distinction.
Being awarded a Michelin star signifies that a restaurant offers exceptional cuisine, with the quality of the ingredients, the mastery of flavor and cooking techniques, and the personality of the chef in their dishes being key criteria. Restaurants can earn up to three stars, with each level indicating a higher degree of sophistication, creativity, and consistency.
For chefs and restaurant owners, receiving a Michelin star can dramatically change the trajectory of their business, bringing not only global recognition but also an increase in customer interest and reservations. It’s a recognition that can elevate a chef’s career to new heights and solidify a restaurant’s place in the competitive gastronomic landscape. In essence, owning a Michelin star is not just an honor; it’s a reflection of a relentless pursuit of culinary perfection.
Chefs with a Michelin Star
La Merenda
Chef Dominique Le Stanc, initially trained alongside notable French gastronomes, opened his first restaurant in 1984, becoming Monaco’s sole Michelin-starred chef. He later earned two Michelin stars at Le Chantecler in Nice. Seeking authenticity, he left Le Chantecler to take over La Merenda Nice, aiming to preserve its heritage and maintain its unique spirit.
He bikes to the Cours Saleya market near La Merenda every morning to buy everything fresh from the market.
In his tiny kitchen, Dominique and his team have been cooking Niçoise specialties with enthusiasm, authenticity, and skill for 25 years. Maintaining tradition, a hallmark since its opening in 1966, is La Merenda’s true secret to success: the food is unique, always comforting, and “like home.”
Located at 4, Rue Raoul Bosio – 06300 Nice
Restaurants a Michelin star
La Palme d’or
La Palme d’Or in Cannes, a high-end restaurant boasting two Michelin stars, is located at 73 Boulevard de la Croisette. It offers Mediterranean, European, and French cuisine, curated by a renowned chef for an exceptional culinary experience. The elegant setting features stunning sea views. The dress code is casual, prices are high, and reservations are recommended a few days in advance. Rated 4.5 out of 5 from 563 reviews, the restaurant also provides vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
Mirazur
Mirazur is located at the base of the mountains, overlooking the sea near the Italian border. The spacious, elegant dining room offers sweeping sea and sky views through a large circular window, framing the town of Menton.
Below, a garden filled with aromatic herbs and citrus fruits serves as a key inspiration source for Chef Mauro Colagreco’s dishes. Mauro Colagreco’s cooking draws inspiration from nature and the gardens, focusing on the connection between the sky and the earth and how the moon and planets affect plants. He offers a menu that reflects the vital essence of each day, based on the biodynamic calendar.
The dishes are simple, artistic, and colorful, showcasing bold textures and combinations. Depending on when you visit, you’ll experience one of their unique creations. The Michelin Guide has recognized Mirazur in its new “sustainable gastronomy” category, awarding it a Green MICHELIN Star in addition to its existing three Michelin Stars.
Located at 30 avenue Aristide-Briand, Menton, 06500
Jan
Restaurant JAN celebrates a decade of unexpected journeys, starting with its serendipitous location in Nice’s Old Port district. Founded with the dream of bringing South African inspired cuisine to Europe. Growing up on a farm in South Africa, Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen infused the restaurant with a philosophy of farm-to-table dining, offering a unique blend of French and South African dishes that pay homage to both his roots and his adopted home.
Over the years, JAN has really paid attention to what its guests like and to the environment, changing to match its beautiful location and focus on being eco-friendly. Every meal is a shout-out to ten years of hard work, ideas, and getting better. The restaurant earned a Michelin star, a rare achievement for a South African chef in France.
Located at 12 rue Lascaris, Nice, 06300
Ceto
Ceto, a Michelin-starred restaurant inspired by Greek mythology and aquatic constellations, blends tradition with modernity, focusing on responsible fishing in tune with nature. Drawing from the riches of the French Riviera, Mauro Colagreco’s cuisine changes with the sea’s rhythm through the seasons.
Part of the eagerly anticipated renovation of the former Vista Palace into the Maybourne Riviera, this project saw more than four years of comprehensive updates. Colagreco, also known from Mirazur in Menton, offers a culinary journey through Mediterranean flavors with precise, straightforward dishes. Located in a minimalistic nautical setting or on a terrace with breathtaking views of the sea, Monaco, and Cap Martin, dining at Ceto is an unforgettable experience.
Château Eza
Chateau Eza, a Michelin-starred gem, offers a magical experience with its stunning panoramic views of mountains diving into the Mediterranean. The spotlight is equally on the cuisine by Chef Justin Schmitt, who brings his experience from top restaurants to create modern dishes with unique flair, like roasted octopus with satay and John Dory with courgette flowers. The desserts are equally impressive, and the terrace view is unforgettable. The venue features a restaurant serving Mediterranean and classic French cuisine, a lounge bar with a terrace overlooking the French Riviera, and options for intimate dining on private balconies or in an exclusive dining room, offering spectacular views of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat.
Located at Rue de la Pise, 06360 Èze
La chèvre d’or
La Chèvre d’Or, holding two Michelin stars, impresses immediately with its extraordinary location and breathtaking views. Situated atop a rocky hill in a medieval village, it offers a commanding panorama of the Côte d’Azur and the Mediterranean Sea. The cuisine, crafted by Arnaud Faye, lives up to the setting, with a focus on local ingredients like fish, meat, vegetables, olive oil, and herbs. Faye’s talent shines through in harmonious and precise dishes that are often irresistible, making dining here an enthusiastic experience.
Located at Rue du Barri, Èze, 06360, France
Le Cap
The iconic Grand-Hôtel du Cap Ferrat, a Michelin-starred jewel and hotspot for international VIPs, nestled at the tip of an exclusive peninsula with views of the Mediterranean, hidden by lush gardens. Choose from the stunning dining room or the beautiful terrace under tall Aleppo pines for your dining experience. Chef Yoric Tièche, born in Aix-en-Provence, leads the kitchen with dishes inspired by Provence’s culinary traditions, using Mediterranean ingredients. Signature dishes include red mullet with sweet harissa and a chickpea socca, garnished with a floral bouquet of herbs. Pastry chef Pierre-Jean Quinonero steals the show with his desserts, such as the delectable mandarin and lemon tartlet among his other tempting creations.
Located at 71 boulevard du Général-de-Gaulle, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, France, this hotel offers a culinary journey not to be missed.
Michelin guide Restaurants
Table 22 par Noël Mantel
Located in 22 Rue Saint-Antoine, 06400 Cannes, in a highly touristic area, just steps away from the Forville market, a dedicated and passionate team showcases good ingredients and delicious Provençal flavors – from flame-kissed mackerel with beefsteak tomatoes and lime-ginger mustard to St Pierre with green vegetables and bourride sauce.
Delicacy on the menu, from starter to dessert.. Enjoy a splendid meal in the comfort of your home at Table 22, cooked and served by Noël Mantel and his team
La Table du Chef
La table du chef is a gourmet restaurant offering a 4-course blind menu based on regional and seasonal products. The Chef crafts the menu based on the best offerings from his suppliers, including the Forville market, butchers, and fishmongers.
Open in the evenings only, this quaint bistro, just a short walk from Rue d’Antibes, is a gem. In its open kitchen, the young chef prepares local, seasonal ingredients to create subtle and flavorful dishes, such as a delicious carrot velouté infused with star anise and topped with a seared shrimp. The “surprise” menu, which changes based on market availability, offers excellent value for money. Remember to make a reservation!
5 Rue Jean Daumas, 06400 Cannes
Riviera Restaurant
Located near the Croisette, Riviera Restaurant is a popular spot known for its Mediterranean elegance and vibrant atmosphere. It offers traditional French brasserie cuisine from morning till night. With both indoor seating and a south-facing terrace that overlooks the sea, it’s a place designed for enjoying life. The restaurant features a Chef’s Table and is led by Chef Laurent Bunel. Celebrating over 110 years, it boasts a marble interior, a terrace with sea views, and serves high-quality, seasonal Mediterranean dishes with top-notch service.
58 Bd de la Croisette, 06400 Cannes
L’Affable
L’Affable, located in the center of Cannes, is a contemporary bistro known for its busy atmosphere and commendable menu featuring dishes like courgette flower fritters, cod aioli, roasted rack of lamb with thyme, and the classic Grand Marnier soufflé, its house speciality. After spending 30 years in Mougins, Jean-Paul BATTAGLIA fulfilled his dream by opening L’Affable at 5 rue Lafontaine, creating a unique dining experience.
Beef Bar
Since 2005, Beefbar Monaco has set the standard for meat enthusiasts on the French Riviera. Known for its stylish architecture, relaxed vibe, and stunning Mediterranean views, Beefbar offers a unique dining experience centered around simplicity and top-notch ingredients. Located by Fontvieille Marina, this fashionable “meat bar” specializes in high-quality beef (including Wagyu and Black Angus), alongside street food, refined salads, and some fish dishes. Its trendy interior and popular meat aging display cases make it a favorite among locals.
Located at 42 Quai Jean-Charles Rey, 98000 Monaco
Maya Bay
Maya Bay in Monaco is a unique venue that brings together Japanese and Thai cuisines under one roof, offering an Asian dining experience highlighted by modern elegance and soothing music. With a commitment to high-quality ingredients and perfectly balanced spices, guests can enjoy both aromatic and understated dishes at a good value for price and quality. Located at 24 Avenue Princesse-Grace, Monaco, 98000, France, it’s a place where the choice between richly flavored or simple, refined cuisine is yours to make.
L’Arazur
L’Arazur, led by owner-chef Lucas Marini and his partner Jeanne Martin, is a cozy restaurant nestled in Antibes. This duo, with their impeccable culinary backgrounds and experience from around the world, has created a space that reflects their talent and generosity. The restaurant focuses on seasonal, fresh, colorful, and simply prepared dishes, with special attention to vegetables. Dining at L’Arazur promises a delightful experience for your taste buds, as this young couple pours their expertise and warmth into every dish they serve.
Located at 8 rue des Palmiers, Antibes, 06600, France
La Table de Pierre
La Table de Pierre at Le Mas de Pierre has evolved into a stunning, intimate, and luxurious dining experience. The chef duo offers modern Mediterranean cuisine that’s local and incorporates subtle international touches. The dishes are perfectly cooked and seasoned, creating an overall harmony that’s impressive.
The gourmet restaurant at the Domaine du Mas de Pierre, led by Chef Maxime Leconte, embraces nature, with views of the gardens and natural surroundings in every season. It’s an elegant table in the heart of the Provencal countryside, where gourmet flavors blend with the evening’s soft light, casting a romantic glow. Located at 2320 Route des Serres, 06570 Saint-Paul-de-Vence, it’s a place where cuisine and ambiance come together beautifully.
La Mère Germaine
La Mere Germaine in Villefranche-sur-Mer has been a must-visit spot on the French Riviera since 1938. This restaurant is known for its fresh fish and seafood, attracting locals and travelers alike, including the famous Jean Cocteau. The charm of dining here is not just in the food but also in enjoying the view from the terrace, which overlooks the harbor.
The establishment stands out for its unique location just meters away from the sea, where fishermen’s boats sway gently and prestigious yachts anchor nearby. It’s accessible by both sea and land, making it a popular summer destination. The Bay of Villefranche, dotted with leisure ships from around the world, offers a stunning backdrop for guests arriving with the anticipation of a delightful meal.
Is there a more captivating or enchanting site than the Bay of Villefranche-sur-Mer ? Often referred to as the most beautiful bay in Europe, it seems to be where all harmonies meet, drawing visitors from across the globe.
Located at 9 quai Amiral-Courbet, Villefranche-sur-Mer, 06230, France
La Table du Royale
La Table du Royal, located at the Royal Riviera in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, France, offers a modern dining experience crafted by Geoffroy Szamburski. His dishes celebrate the seasons and the local environment, featuring ingredients from the Riviera and the Nice hinterland, like Gamberoni from San Remo and Menton lemons. Desserts by head pastry chef Lucas Simoncini, such as Piedmont hazelnut soufflé and ice cream, are just as noteworthy. Imagine dining on the terrace, with a breathtaking view of the sea stretching into the horizon.
La Bastide Saint-Antoine
La Bastide Saint-Antoine, nestled in the heights of Grasse on the French Riviera, is a beacon of joy and light in Provence. Celebrating its 20th anniversary, Jacques Chibois, a pioneer of “cuisine du soleil,” has refreshed the restaurant’s team, including the head sommelier and chief account manager, energizing them to craft dishes that celebrate the region’s bounty like citrus fruits, herbs, and olive oil. This provençal haven, housed in a 17th-century characterful home that reflects Chibois’ welcoming and warm personality, offers breathtaking views of the hinterlands, the Bay of Cannes, and the Mediterranean – truly a state of bliss. Located at 48 avenue Henri-Dunant in Grasse, France, it’s a culinary retreat that promises a delightful experience.
L’Amandier
L’Amandier, located in the historic center of Fréjus near the Town Hall, serves Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Known for its Provençal flavors, the restaurant offers dishes like avocado and shrimp tartare with a dash of sherry, confit shoulder of lamb with rosemary and tomato juice, and vanilla rice pudding. This charming establishment, run by a delightful couple, guarantees a satisfying meal at reasonable prices. Since 2007, it has been recognized in the Michelin Guide with a Bib Gourmand, an award for restaurants that provide carefully prepared cuisine at a great value.
La Place de Mougins
La Place de Mougins, as the name hints, is situated right on the village square, embodying both style and charm. This exquisite restaurant owes its appeal to a passionate and inventive chef who, month by month, highlights seasonal ingredients, celebrating the likes of truffles and asparagus among others.
Chef Denis Fétisson is the embodiment of the South. Born in Marseille, a melting pot of Mediterranean cultures, he carries this rich blend in his blood. From his French heritage, he inherited his taste; from his Greek roots, his determination; and from his Italian lineage, his sociability. Located at 41 Place du Commandant Lamy, 06250 Mougins, La Place de Mougins offers a unique culinary experience that reflects the vibrant mosaic of Mediterranean flavors.
In conclusion, these restaurants represent some of the finest dining experiences the French Riviera has to offer. Each establishment, marked by its unique culinary approach and dedication to excellence, stands as a testament to the region’s rich gastronomic heritage and innovation. Whether it’s through the celebration of local ingredients, the mastery of traditional techniques, or the creative fusion of flavors, these restaurants not only provide exceptional meals but also contribute to the Riviera’s esteemed reputation as a premier destination for food lovers around the world.
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