For food enthusiasts, the Alpilles region boasts several Michelin-starred restaurants, each offering a unique dining experience. Here, we highlight three of the best Michelin-starred restaurants in the Alpilles, exploring what makes them unique, the chefs behind the cuisine, and what you can expect during your visit.
La Chassagnette *
What makes it unique
La Chassagnette, located in Arles, is a haven for those who appreciate innovative cuisine drawn directly from nature. The restaurant prides itself on its kitchen garden, from which it sources the majority of its ingredients. Dining under the grapevines here is something else. It helps you feel connected with nature whilst you dine and be able to appreciate the beautiful warmth of Provencal summer evenings.
The chef
Chef Armand Arnal leads the kitchen at La Chassagnette. His approach to cooking is deeply rooted in sustainability and seasonality. Arnal's culinary philosophy is about letting the natural flavours of the garden's produce shine, creating dishes that are both simple and profoundly flavourful.
The food
The menu at La Chassagnette changes regularly, reflecting the seasons and the garden's yield. Expect a variety of dishes that celebrate fresh vegetables, herbs, and edible flowers, all paired with carefully selected wines. Signature dishes include vibrant vegetable plates and innovative creations that highlight the chef’s creativity and the garden’s bounty.
What to wear and when to book
The dress code at La Chassagnette is smart casual, allowing you to enjoy the relaxed, garden atmosphere. It is advisable to book your table at least a few weeks in advance, especially during the peak summer months when the restaurant is at its busiest.
L'Oustau de Baumanière ***
What makes it unique
L'Oustau de Baumanière, located in Les Baux de Provence, is a prestigious three Michelin-starred restaurant with fantastic views of The Alpilles. The elegant dining room, set in a vaulted stone hall, opens onto a terrace, perfect for al fresco dining during the warmer months. The restaurant is part of the luxurious Relais & Châteaux L'Oustau de Baumanière Hotel.
The chef
The kitchen is led by Chef Glenn Viel, known for his inventive and beautifully presented French cuisine. His culinary approach combines traditional techniques with modern creativity, resulting in dishes that are as visually impressive as they are delicious.
The food
Expect a menu that showcases the finest ingredients, meticulously crafted into exquisite dishes. Delicate seafood options, such as poached lobster or seared scallops, highlight the fresh, clean flavours of the ocean. Expertly prepared meats, including tender lamb and succulent beef, are often accompanied by seasonal vegetables and delicate sauces that enhance their natural flavours.
The desserts at L'Oustau de Baumanière are nothing short of artful. Pastries, tarts, and soufflés are beautifully presented, offering a sweet conclusion to your meal. Each dessert is a testament to the skill and creativity of the pastry chefs, who use only the finest ingredients to create these culinary masterpieces. Wine pairings at L'Oustau de Baumanière are, of course, meticulously chosen to complement the flavours of each dish. The sommelier offers a selection of local and international wines that perfectly match the menu.
What to wear and when to book
Given its three-star status, the dress code is formal. Men are recommended to wear jackets. Reservations should be made well in advance, ideally several months ahead, to secure a table. The restaurant is closed from fifteen October to fifteen April and weekly on Wednesdays and Thursdays. In summer, it is open from noon until 2pm and 7pm to 10pm.
L'Auberge de Saint Remy *
What makes it unique
Situated in the Auberge de la Reine Jeanne Hotel in Saint Rémy de Provence, L'Auberge de Saint Rémy offers a cosy and authentic Provençal dining experience. The restaurant's charm lies in its warm setting with exposed beams, stone walls, and a fireplace, complemented by a lovely patio terrace for outdoor dining. This inviting ambiance makes it a perfect spot for enjoying a leisurely meal, whether inside by the fire or outside in the fresh air.
The chefs
Chef Fanny Rey, who reached the final of the 2011 French Top Chef, and pastry chef Jonathan Wahid, the French champion of desserts in 2005, helm the kitchen. Their combined expertise and passion for local ingredients result in a constantly evolving menu that stays true to Provençal and Mediterranean traditions. Their dedication to showcasing regional produce and traditional techniques is evident in every dish they create.
The food
The menu at L'Auberge de Saint Rémy features specialities such as traditional Bouillabaisse, a rich fish stew brimming with fresh seafood; Provençal aioli, a garlic mayonnaise served with an assortment of vegetables and fish; and beef ribs, cooked to perfection. Grilled sea bass with thyme highlights the fresh flavours of the Mediterranean, while desserts like Suzette crepes and Mille-feuille with berries provide a sweet finish to your meal. Each dish is prepared with fresh, regional ingredients, reflecting the rich culinary heritage of Provence.
What to wear and when to book
The dress code is smart casual, fitting for the restaurant’s relaxed yet refined atmosphere. Reservations are recommended a few weeks in advance, particularly during high season. The restaurant is closed on Wednesdays and Thursdays.
Whether you prefer the innovative garden cuisine of La Chassagnette, the refined elegance of L'Oustau de Baumanière, or the authentic Provençal flavours at Fanny Rey & Jonathan Wahid's Restaurant, each offers a unique taste of the region's gastronomic excellence. For more specific requests or additional recommendations, do not hesitate to get in touch with our concierge team. We are here to help you curate your perfect holiday.
À bientôt,
The Provence Holidays Team
