For such a little place, Saint-Paul-de-Vence has no shortage of restaurants to refuel during or at the end of your day of exploring. From elevated, rural spots with sensational views to snug, local haunts, here is our pick of the eight best restaurants in this gorgeous town.
A clue in the title, Le Vieux Moulin is situated in a former mill with a lovely, big terrace out the front and stylish decor throughout. The owner, Frédéric Rossi, serves up traditional cuisine in both simple and sophisticated dishes, a melange of Mediterranean, regional, and Italian cuisine.
La Brouette is just the kind of restaurant you hope you’ll find after days and days of eating croissants. Hidden on the hillside with the most incredible views over Saint-Paul-de-Vence is this eatery oasis run by a Danish couple. The restaurant itself is rustic and lovingly decorated, and the tables dotted around the terraced gardens couldn’t be more perfect for a romantic meal for two. Restaurant specialities include home-made marinated and smoked salmon, Baltic herring, smoked trout of the day and, of course, lots of Danish sweet treats.
A stylish auberge that was much loved by artists like Picasso and Matisse, dining here is a real experience that’s not to be missed when visiting Saint-Paul-de-Vence. Paul Roux, the founder of this family-run enterprise, had a close relationship with all the artists who treated his boutique hotel like a home away from home. Artists would stay rent-free in exchange for paintings. So even though you feel like you’re dining in a gallery, the art is ingrained in the building’s history and is a must-experience when in Saint-Paul-de-Vence. The food here is everything you’d expect from the South of France – Mediterranean ingredients with a French flare.
For beautifully presented (and delicious, of course) food at a really reasonable price in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Le Caruso is the restaurant for you. Set menus begin at €25 for a starter and main or main and dessert, or €31 for a three-course meal. Vegetarians will happily eat here – something that’s not always a given in France and outside of the bigger cities – and whatever your eating preferences, just don’t skip dessert!
La Sierra has one of the best views in Saint-Paul-de-Vence. The food is simple and well thought out here. With a mix of regional French dishes, Provençal cuisine, and home-made tasties – coupled with the mountain landscape as backdrop – it can’t be beaten for a sun-drenched lunch or romantic dinner.
La Fontaine occupies a lovely spot in Saint-Paul-de-Vence village overlooking the historic fountain, hence its name La Fontaine. The terrace is very attractive, offering views of the alleyways and little village streets from its slightly elevated position. A set menu of €16 is on offer, comprised of a main course and a dessert. Group menus start from €40. The seafood here, if choosing off the main menu, is always a good option.
Located on the westerly ramparts of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, this little restaurant gets overlooked sometimes as it’s not in the centre of the old town. But walk just a few minutes down the cobbled streets and you’ll be met with a beautiful view of the valley below and a restaurant that serves up hearty yet still refined French dishes. You won’t feel you’re in a tourist trap here, which adds to its charm. Beautiful beams and stone features inside with a sweet mezzanine level.
We’re cheating a bit here, we know. Dolce Italia isn’t a restaurant but an ice cream parlour (with seating), however, you’ll thank us later. With the best gelato in town, make sure you finish off your day (or start it, you’re on holiday after all!) by visiting this gorgeous cafe in the old town. The only problem you’ll have is trying to limit your scoops to the maximum…