Restaurants on the French Riviera run the gamut from socca-serving snack bars to Michelin-starred gastronomic palaces. Restaurant prices are relatively high; count on spending a minimum of €25 for a two-course dinner with wine at the cheapest place and at least four times that price at the most expensive. Remember that even the very best restaurants on the Riviera offer weekday lunch deals at a fraction of the price of their dinner meals. Lunch can be a great solution for fine dining on a budget! Opening hours are highly idiosyncratic; it's essential to reserve.
Le Louis XV--Alain Ducasse
Monte Carlo
With three full stars, this is the finest of the fine. Lunch will set you back €140 with beverages. Prepare to be wowed.
La Reserve de Beaulieu
Beaulieu-sur-Mer
Located in a luxury hotel of the same name, the restaurant is also known as Restaurant des Rois (Restaurant of the Kings) and for good reason. It has received two Michelin stars.
La Palme d'Or
Cannes
In the luxury Hotel Martinez, this restaurant is crowded with movie stars during the Cannes Film Festival but a temple to fine dining the entire year.
Château de la Chèvre d'Or
Eze
Not only is the restaurant gorgeous but the view is as breathtaking as the highly sophisticated cuisine. Lunch and dinner menus start at €130
Hostellerie Jérôme
La Turbie
With a menu at only €65, this exquisite place offers the excellent value. It's a fine way to sample a two-star restaurant at an affordable price.
Château St-Martin & Spa
Vence
Chef Yannick Franque was only recently awarded his second star by Michelin and it's well deserved. Plus, he offers a daily special with a glass of wine for a reasonable €33. See my review.
