3 Best Restaurants in Les Baux-de-Provence, Provence

Year after year, diners return to this temple to haute cuisine for updated versions of dishes they might have first tried three decades ago. This was the first establishment outside of the Riviera to earn three Michelin stars, and, under legendary chef Raymond Thuillier, it rose from being the dining room of a small country inn to a restaurant whose guest list has included leading artists, movie stars, and heads of state (Picasso, Queen Elizabeth, Churchill, and Harry Truman all dined here). Helmed by Thuillier's grandson, Jean-André Charial, and his gifted protégé, Glenn Viel, the restaurant maintains two Michelin stars. The refined classic dishes are not completely free from the ingredients and preparations of the past, but they do now highlight organic vegetables fresh from the extensive kitchen gardens.

This spot has seen its share of famous diners, from French movie stars to politicians, but you'd never know it from the friendly, laid-back atmosphere cultivated by the longtime chef and his loyal staff who loudly greet their friends—meaning everyone. From the apéritif until the bill comes (which could be a while, as you'll want to take your time here), you're drawn into the rhythm of Provençal bistro dining, with a bottle of the house red wine ready at your table and a stellar cheese platter all to yourself. There is a set menu for lunch and dinner—a choice of two starters, one or two main courses, and six desserts—ensuring that every morsel is fresh, local, and cooked to perfection. The bistro is about 6 km (4 miles) from Les-Baux-de-Provence and 13 km (8 miles) from St-Rémy-de-Provence.

Who would have thought that you could find a 100% organic, raw, gluten-free, and vegan restaurant of this caliber in the heart of meat-centric Provence? It's foodie heaven to those with restricted diets, offering a tantalizing range of cold-pressed juices, salads, pastries, and smoothies so good that even carnivores will appreciate them. The rustic dining room is adorable, and there is a sunny terrace overlooking the village.