Bordeaux

A local institution, equally striking for its 1900s grotto decor as for its fine modern cuisine, which is astutely inventive and delightfully flavoursome. — Michelin Guide

Taking its name from the Greek word for cooking, this small restaurant is attractively decorated with photos of Greece and Crete, from where the owner's family originally hails. — Michelin Guide

Set on the Right Bank, opposite the main town, this trendy restaurant (quirkily set on stilts over the water) offers you a glimpse of what sailors must have seen when they first cruised up the estuary. — Frommer's

Not just a pretty country inn but a veritable institution! Proud of his gastronomic heritage, the lively owner promotes the delights of his region with conviction. — Michelin Guide

This friendly and fashionable restaurant nestled in a small street in the city centre is always busy. — Michelin Guide

Helmed by one of the hottest chefs in Bordeaux, this intimate French eatery and corner wine shop was built with local stone, iron and oak beams and has a courtyard garden for plein air dining. — Afar Magazine

Gordon Ramsay has devised an appetising menu that shows off the Aquitaine terroir and is perfectly executed by an Israeli chef. — Michelin Guide

Baud et Millet is a good place to get acquainted with some of the 246 different French cheeses. — Fodor's

With a kitsch but earnest Belle Epoque décor, Le Mably has its charm, especially abundant in the rich specialties, such as seared foie gras in cream sauce with apple rounds. — Travel + Leisure

Request a light white wine in this low-key bar and you’ll likely be served a chilled bottle for less than $10 that will go perfectly with a plate of seared calamari. — Travel + Leisure