The Luberon is a food lover's paradise. We once calculated that we had over 20 eateries, from cafés to Michelin starred restaurants, within a 5 km radius of home…not too shabby!
Perfect little spots abound in Provence for picturesque coffees, shady aperitifs or a glass of rosé with a view, but that is a blog for another day!
Here is a small selection of the best restaurants in Provence, specifically around Saignon, in our opinion, curated over the course of 2023. While they are all open for lunch and dinner, be sure to book a shady table if you opt for a lunch out. From as early on as May it can get very hot in the sun in Provence. We hope you’ll enjoy, bon appétit!
1 JARDIN SUR LE TOIT - SAIGNON
This is the best place to be in summer in Saignon. This beautiful restaurant was built stone by stone by it’s founding owners, perched high up on the ‘rock’ of Saignon. For a great view of the beautiful Provencal countryside and a spectacular sunset, look no further. Le Jardin sur le Toit is a mid priced restaurant, with a small menu of refined dishes made with fresh, regional produce. They are gluten-free friendly, but best to call ahead. The rule is that the earlier you book, the better your view will be, first in, first served!
BAR DES AMIS - VILLARS
A completely different vibe. This relaxed, friendly restaurant is everything that you imagine a bistro in Provence will be. Lovers of authentic French cuisine and inventive cuisine, this one is for you! Reasonable prices, outside seating overlooking the town square, super friendly staff, interesting menus with a modern twist on traditional French fare with amazing local and seasonal produce.
DOMAINE DU CASTELLAS - SIVERGUES
This is really more of an experience in Provence than a simple restaurant. This beautiful estate is hidden at the end of a country road, in the provencal hinterland. Eighteenth century farm, hotel, restaurant, this little hamlet screams exclusivity.
Although there is an indoor lounge and restaurant, the main event is definitely the outdoor setting. Large tables in the shade look out over the grounds, perfect for a group booking. This is one of the pricier restaurants in the area, with a good local wine list and a set menu. Gluten free options are available, best to warn them when you book.
LE COMPTOIR DE BALTHAZAR - SAIGNON
A charming, little restaurant, typical of Provence, in the heart of Saignon village, just opposite the picturesque church. The setting is lovely, tables nestled under the shade of a leafy awning, and the food is good. A small menu, with just a couple of choices, reasonable priced and fresh, local produce. It is a relaxed affair, but very small so best to book ahead. Gluten free alternatives are possible, but as the menu is very limited, it is best to book ahead and tell them. They will happily organise suitable alternatives. Best market to plate food in town.
LE SANGLIER PARASSEUX - CASENEUVE
Perfect for an intimate dinner or a romantic meal in beautiful Provence, this restaurant has a pretty little, shady terrace, perched up high on the hillside of Caseneuve. Enjoy a gourmet meal while the sun sets over the valley. Great food, à la carte or degustation menus with provencal fare and an excellent wine list of local wineries, this is the best fine dining experience. While regional flavours and seasonal food do make up their menu, gourmet food such as lobster and foie gras are also available for food lovers looking for a gourmet experience.
L’INTRAMUROS RESTAURANT AND RHUMERIE - APT
An atypical restaurant in the old town of Apt, this place has the best list of rum, from all around the globe, that I have ever seen. A strange mix, as they do quite traditional French bistro dishes, like snails, sardines and an amazing chocolate cream for dessert, as well as a bit of asian fusion food. The food is good, even if the menu is limited, but let’s face it, we really love the atmosphere. The restaurant is like a huge antique shop, with vintage bikes hanging form the ceiling, old vintage posters, number plates, cockatoos and more… not to mention an enormous selection of decorative rum bottles. Emile the dog will surely greet you, this place is always a bit of fun.
These are our favorite places, we'd love to know what you think. You can leave us your feedback in the comments.
Comentarios