The Best Restaurants in Avignon

La Mirande, a Michelin-starred establishment nestled in the historic heart of Avignon, offers a culinary experience that captures the warmth of Southern France. Chef Florent Pietravalle's delicate and flavorful dishes celebrate local produce and traditions. Specialties include langoustine and John Dory, prepared with impeccable technique and a touch of spontaneity inherited from Jean-Luc Rabanel and especially Pierre Gagnaire.

The ambiance of the restaurant is as charming as its dishes. Located in a magnificent 18th-century interior with a splendid garden, La Mirande promises an elegant dining experience. The surprising menu, based on exceptional seasonal products from the region, is complemented by a prestigious wine list, showcasing the great wine regions with a focus on Châteauneuf.

La Mirande also offers varied gastronomic experiences, from the host table to the bistronomic version in La Salle à Manger, or the brand new Mirage restaurant. The chef's ultimate sense of simplicity is revealed in dishes such as shrimp from Grau-du-Roi and smoked moray, offering a modern and bold interpretation of Provençal cuisine.

Set at the foot of the Alpilles, L'Aupiho is a tribute to Provençal tradition. Led by Belgian chef Lieven Van Aken, this Michelin-starred restaurant since 2018 offers bold and powerful cuisine, blending Flemish influences with a love for Provence. Dishes like vegetarian bouillabaisse and Mediterranean langoustines reflect this fusion of flavors.

The pastry chef adds to the experience with creations that delight the palate, while vegetables from the estate's garden enhance each dish. This harmony of flavors is an ode to nature, a symphony of tastes that celebrates the richness of the earth and sky.

At the Bistrot, led by Lieven Van Aken, a seasonal menu highlights regional products and the estate's olive oil. The restaurant's commitment to agroecology and permaculture is reflected in its garden, while the extensive cellar offers a selection of regional and international wines, completing L'Aupiho's unique gastronomic experience.

L'Oustau de Baumanière, a legendary establishment founded in 1945, epitomizes French gastronomic excellence. Under the guidance of Glenn Viel, the cuisine brings a fresh and creative touch while preserving the traditional spirit of Baumanière. His culinary approach, deeply respectful of local terroir, is marked by simplicity and precision, reflecting his Breton heritage.

The dishes at L'Oustau de Baumanière showcase extraordinary expertise, highlighting local products such as Vallée des Baux olive oil and organic vegetables from the estate's garden. Glenn Viel's cooking, often presented in onsite-made ceramic tableware, is distinguished by traditional cooking methods and his exploration of thermal inertia. The authentic flavors are fully realized in the original and indulgent desserts by Brandon Dehan, evidencing a strong collaboration between the chef and the pastry chef.

Renowned for its exceptional service, the restaurant continues the long-standing traditions of the establishment. With an impressive wine cellar of over 3,000 labels, L'Oustau de Baumanière offers a sublime culinary experience, deeply rooted in history yet decidedly forward-looking. A must-visit for lovers of fine dining and the bucolic Provencal ambiance.