With its winding ancient streets opening up onto picturesque squares under palm and plane trees, Montpellier is a very romantic city. Then there are the restaurants… One of the best things about exploring somewhere for the first time is discovering the food and a romantic dinner à deux in Montpellier can’t be beaten. Here are the most romantic restaurants in the city to treat your date with.
Place Jean Jaurès is a gorgeous square in Montpellier, and Ma Première Cantine is in one of the pretty corners. The breakfast menu is served until 11.45, then you can choose from the lunch or dinner menus. The location makes this restaurant and a table for two under the Mediterranean sun the perfect romantic setting.
Les Bains de Montpellier occupies a gorgeous location right in the centre of Montpellier old town but away from the crowds. Its big selling point for a romantic date is the central courtyard, decked out with palm trees and parasols, and fans added in summer and usually warm enough in the cooler months if you’re wrapped up. The name reveals the restaurant’s history; les bains meaning the baths of Montpellier, founded in 1770. The menu is classic delicious Mediterranean, with some sharing plates, too – perfect for a romantic soirée.
When you’re on a romantic city break, you want each day to last as long as possible. A lazy morning and finding a little city nook for brunch is just about the best way to kick off your day together. Coldrip Food & Coffee is one of the best places in Montpellier to have brunch; find delicious juices, smoothies, pancakes and more to tuck into.
For a special romantic treat, head to Pastis. They have ‘surprise menus’ (chef’s choice) to choose from, from €25 for two courses, and the location is postcard-perfect. If you sit inside, you’ll be treated to exposed stone walls and pristine white tablecloths, and if you sit outdoors, you can gaze up at the magnificent Sainte Anne church. The menus are well considered and beautifully crafted so the presentation and flavour are top notch.
With a fantastic terrace in the sought-after neighbourhood of Beaux-Arts, Les Gourmands is a delightful restaurant that’s perfect for two with an ever-changing daily menu for €15 and a three-course option for €35. If you finish up early, have a drink at the chic Le Parfum cocktail bar afterwards.
A hop, skip and jump from the centre of Montpellier, perching on the banks of the River Lez is the beautiful La Réserve Rimbaud restaurant. With tranquil views of the river from the terrace and plates of food that look like works of art, this is an ideal place for a romantic meal. Various menus are on offer, but of particular good value is the €40 lunch three-course option, served Tuesday to Friday. Book in advance.
To the south of Montpellier is the town of Lattes. It’s an ancient town, with an attractive harbour, restaurants and terraces. One restaurant is Sensation that offers ‘gastro’ and ‘bistro’ menus, starting at €15.50 and if you book for the evening sitting, there is a delicious tapas sharing plate for two for €35.50 – fine dining at a reasonable price.
A bijou wine bar tucked into one of Montpellier’s many winding streets in the old town, this serves French tapas along with an extensive wine list. If you’re looking for somewhere to have a nightcap then head here, as it’s open until 1am.