South Rhone – Foodie time
As always, I have a few recommendations for food lovers, especially since we know this area very well, visiting Gigondas once or twice a year. We enjoy shopping at the local markets and cooking at home, but there are also a few must-visit establishments we never miss when we’re in the region. And of course, I wouldn’t leave you without a tip for the best croissants in the area.
Before exploring specific recommendations, this region deserves special attention for its must-try local delights. Here is a brief introduction to the essential eats you won’t want to miss:
- Croissants, naturally.
- Foie gras served with brioche and fig jam.
- Oysters, which we love to enjoy while sitting on the ruins overlooking Gigondas, paired with a glass of champagne.
- Pâté de campagne on a baguette with Dijon mustard and cornichons—best enjoyed on a picnic in the mountains.
- A variety of heirloom tomatoes—you won’t want to miss these.
- Olives and olive oil—from the black olives of Provence to the luxurious green olives and olive oil of Nyons.
- Cheese—indulge in the abundant local selections, and don’t miss Comté when in France. If you find Alpage, grab it; otherwise, aim for 24- or 36-month aged varieties.
- Seasoning—when cooking, enhance every dish with Camargue salt and fresh Provence herbs, which can be foraged from the nearby mountains.
WINE – Sampling the region’s wines is an absolute must, though that deserves its own dedicated introduction.
Shopping
The Markets
While going out to lunch or dinner at one of the many magnificent restaurants in the area there is just also something special about visiting the local markets. Wether it is shopping for your own culinary explorations or simply taking in the beautifull stalls and maybe enjoying a snack along the way visiting at least one market (always several if you ask me) is a must when visiting this area. I love just enjoying the atmosphere and looking at the beautifully ripe tomatoes, the freshly picked courgette flowers, the olives, the cheese… I can go on and on. I LOVE going to the markets in Rhone.
There are quite a few markets worth visiting and they are on separate days, so I have created a separate page listing our favorites, why we like them and which day to visit.
Supermarkets
I simply love going to a supermarket in France and we always end up spending way to much time and buying way to much food – we just can not help ourselves.
We normally do a first shopping when we arrive. This is when we are supposed to just get the essentioals for the first few days and end up shopping for a week – only to be supplemented from the local markets. I mean the cheese section itself is like heaven, then there is ofcourse the charcuterie and I can go on and on. Though we do not generally buy wine in the supermarket in France, as we prefer to visit specific vineyards, I always go through the champagne section to look for good vintages and offers.
While there are many places to do your grocery shopping, we do have a few favorites, which I have listed below.
Link to Supermarkets coming soon…
Restaurants
Artfull Croissants, classic baguettes and sourdough bread…
– Augusta Breads and Wonders, Sarrians
This bakery is hands down the best in the area and definitely worth the drive from Gigondas to enjoy the flakiest, most delicious morning croissants.
In addition to the croissants, they offer a variety of beautiful pastries, classic baguettes, sourdough breads, and much more.
The location is unassuming, and while they do offer a café to sit in, we usually grab croissants to enjoy at home or take with us on trips. There’s nothing quite like a late morning picnic of coffee and croissants amidst the beautiful French countryside.
A view to match the delicious food.
Visit Les Maisons Du’O – Le Bistro Panoramique, Vaison La Romaine
Bistro Panoramique is a wonderful spot. We love coming here for lunch—always choose the Lunch Menu, which is consistently delicious—after visiting the market or strolling through the old town of Vaison La Romaine. The restaurant offers stunning views of the river and the town below. The service and food are exceptional, and we always leave with big smiles on our faces.
Bistro Panoramique also has a “big brother” across the street called La Barjaca, Les Maisons Du’o, which is open in the evening. Although we haven’t had the chance to visit yet, we’ve heard it is excellent.
Lunch in the Garden
Le Jardin du Quai, Isle sur La Sorque
Isle Sur La Sorgue has a unique charm and atmosphere that I truly adore. Le Jardin du Quai is a true gem in this town, where the gentle flow of the Sorgue River and the abundance of antique shops—including the famous antique market—invite you to slow down and savor the moment.
Lunch in this garden is truly exceptional. Not only is the food delicious, but the serene atmosphere and peaceful surroundings make the experience unforgettable.
Our neighbouring Michelin restaurant
– L’Oustalet, Gigondas
This restaurant is an absolute must-visit when in Gigondas—worth the drive from anywhere nearby or even farther afield. For years, it has been a quintessential French dining experience, where I’ve enjoyed some of my best meals. We still fondly remember the “Menu du Truffe” from years ago. Recently, with the arrival of the talented young chef Thomas, who brings a playful creativity to the kitchen, we’ve been delighted by inspiring dishes like his strawberry and olive dessert—a perfect, delicious balance of savory and sweet.
The restaurant is small and popular, so making a reservation is highly recommended, though typically you don’t need to book weeks in advance. In summer, I suggest enjoying lunch or dinner under the trees out front, while in the colder or rainier months, the warm and inviting atmosphere inside is exactly what you’re looking for.
A snack and a glas of wine
– Nez! La Cave, Gigondas
If you’re not in the mood for a full meal but crave a light snack and a glass of exquisite wine, this is the perfect spot nestled among the charming stone buildings of Gigondas. Their expertise in wine is exceptional, and you’re sure to be delighted.
Nez is owned by the Perrin family, who also own L’Oustalet. The Perrins are renowned for their exceptional wines from Château de Beaucastel in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, which are definitely worth trying if you’re in the area.