Exquisite Prassan Feast Overlooking the French Riviera
French Riviera Dining: Unforgettable Summer Experiences at Exquisite Restaurant Terraces
By Alexander Oetker
Indulge in the exquisite charm of the French Riviera this summer, where exceptional dining experiences await at some of the region's most breathtaking restaurant terraces. Although rising hotel and restaurant prices, triggered by annual influxes of tourists, can make even a simple lunch pricey, these destinations promised unforgettable memories.
Experience the Magic of Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc
Savor the enchanting atmosphere of the Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc, a restaurant whose sun-soaked terrace transports guests to a scene reminiscent of "The Great Gatsby." Located on the picturesque rock of Cap d'Antibes, this luxurious establishment boasts a rich history as a retreat for writers, painters, aristocrats, and Hollywood stars since 1863.
Paris Hilton's endorsement, hanging proudly on the hotel wall, speaks to its unparalleled location. Beneath a stunning sea-view, sailboats pass by, creating the illusion of a leisurely cruise. The hotel's terrace overlooks the cliffs of Antibes, offering a mesmerizing vision of smaller islands in the distance.
While its five-star restaurant, Louroc, offers an impressive dining experience, it comes at a high price. American patrons often pay elite sums for luxurious accommodations, leading European hotels with numerous American clientele to follow suit. This trend extends to the restaurant, where entrées seldom cost less than 60 euros. A popular choice, the Steak Diane, prepared tableside, leaves patrons with mixed feelings about its exorbitant 90-euro price tag.
For a more affordable, yet equally delightful meal, head to the hotel's daily restaurant, Le Grill. The beautiful and affluent dine there daily, enjoying the stunning terrace while admiring fashionable hats and handbags. The menu, offering simple yet divine dishes like a classic Niçoise salad and a Raw Bar featuring local seafood, is sure to impress.
Glitz and Glamour at Monaco's Elsa Restaurant
Craving even more glamour? Look no further than the principality of Monaco, a mere 30 kilometers east of Antibes by air. Clustered on a few square kilometers, this tiny country features new skyscrapers reminiscent of miniature Dubai. Here, low taxes attract celebrities and the super-rich to purchase apartments, creating a unique blend of opulence and quaint charm.
At the heart of Monaco's dining scene is the Elsa Restaurant, which recently earned a star after just a year of operation. Head chefs Marcel Ravin and Domenico D'Antonio infuse their dishes with a sense of luxury that impresses guests without being flashy. Their culinary journey begins with an impressive parade of amuse-bouches, featuring an array of delights such as zucchini and squid cakes, generous portions of caviar, whipped and filled eggs with cress cream and seaweed, and delicate tartlets adorned with langoustine tartare on real shells and sea snails.
These exquisite offerings set the stage for the main course, a symphony of flavor and fresh seafood. Patrons rave about the steamed Carabineiro, expertly prepared with seawater, and the red mullet, perfectly grilled and served with radicchio, providing the ideal balance of flavor and texture.
Dining in Saint-Tropez's Villa Belrose
No visit to Saint-Tropez is complete without a stop at the ultimate hotspot for the beautiful and rich—welcome to Villa Belrose. Perched on a hill in Gassin with a captivating view of the bay, this villa boasts an intimate atmosphere, impeccable service, and an excellent restaurant.
For a few years, Duc Ngo, the renowned Berlin sushi chef, curated the menu at Villa Belrose. More recently, a Frenchman has taken over as head chef, drawing inspiration from the abundant produce of Provence. Dishes like the confited tomato vegetable medley showcase the chef's pride in local ingredients and culinary expertise.
The villa's stunning design, characterized by vibrant color palettes, contrasts beautifully with the Mediterranean sky and sea. The sea bass, accompanied by a stuffed morel and peas, and smoked eel, provides a delightful contrast of flavors and textures, while the rhubarb dessert, resplendent in shades of green and pink, is an Instagram-worthy masterpiece.
Discovering Hôtel Les Roches Rouges on the Cliffs of Saint-Raphael
For a memorable conclusion to your French Riviera dining adventure, consider a visit to the picturesque Hôtel Les Roches Rouges on the cliffs of Saint-Raphael. Owned by the exclusive Beaumier group, this hotel combines thoughtful design, sustainable practices, and an unmatched ambiance. The setting is perfect for a relaxing weekend getaway, with tranquil natural pools, a fitness center, and impeccable service.
Alexandre Baule, the young head chef, honors local producers on the menu following the departure of José Bailly. Guests can savor his exquisite, produce-focused cuisine on the beautiful terrace, opening up to the vast azure ocean. With flavors ranging from tangy squid cannelloni filled with pea and fava bean mousse to the tender, blood-red milk-fed lamb reminiscent of Wagyu beef, a meal at Hôtel Les Roches Rouges is sure to delight.
Sources: ntv.de
- Food and Cooking
- France
- Monaco
- Indulging in French Riviera's lifestyle, venture to the Hôtel Les Roches Rouges in Saint-Raphael, where the food-and-drink scene offers an unforgettable experience, showcasing both local produce and sustainable practices.
- For a taste of Monaco's glamorous food scene, visit the Elsa Restaurant, where head chefs Marcel Ravin and Domenico D'Antonio combine luxury and exquisite flavors, offering a fusion of French and Mediterranean cuisine that highlights the principality's international reputation.
