Luberon is not just about lavender fields and medieval villages — it is also one of the finest gastronomic regions in France. Here, around every corner you can find a small bistro where the chef cooks with ingredients delivered that morning from the nearest farm. And next door, a Michelin-starred restaurant drawing gourmets from across Europe. We have compiled a selection of ten establishments, personally tested and loved by our guests. All are located within 5-25 minutes of our villa in Bonnieux.
Village bistros and cafes
1. Le Fournil, Bonnieux
Just a five-minute walk from the main square of Bonnieux, Le Fournil is an atmospheric restaurant set in a former bakery. In summer, tables are placed on a small terrace overlooking the valley. The cuisine is modern Provencal with a focus on seasonal produce. Try the lamb ragout with thyme and rosemary or the sea bream fillet with artichokes. Average check: 35-50 euros. Book at least a week ahead in season.
2. La Bastide de Capelongue, Bonnieux
A legendary establishment that held a Michelin star for many years. The restaurant is located in a hotel on a hillside with stunning views of the Luberon valley. Even if you are not planning a full dinner, stop by for an aperitif on the terrace — the sunset from here is incredible. The cuisine is refined, with a tasting menu starting at 95 euros. Dress code: smart casual.
3. Le Carillon, Gordes
In the most picturesque village in Luberon, just 15 minutes from our villa in Bonnieux, you will find the cozy bistro Le Carillon. The terrace faces directly onto the famous Gordes castle. They serve honest village cooking: goat cheese salad with walnuts, duck breast with cherry sauce, homemade creme brulee. Average check: 25-40 euros. Perfect for lunch after a stroll through the village.
Restaurants for a special occasion
4. La Closerie, Ansouis
This small restaurant in the charming village of Ansouis is a true gem. The chef worked in the best restaurants in Paris before moving to Provence to open his own place. The menu changes weekly depending on what is available at the market. There are only 20 seats, so reservations are essential. About 25 minutes from the villa, but every minute of the drive is worth it.
5. Restaurant Xavier Mathieu, Joucas
A restaurant at the Hotel Le Phebus in the village of Joucas, awarded a Michelin star. Chef Xavier Mathieu is a virtuoso of Provencal flavors. His cuisine is a modern interpretation of classic regional recipes using herbs and vegetables from the hotel's own garden. Tasting menu from 110 euros. Distance from the villa: about 20 minutes.
6. L'Auberge de la Loube, Buoux
Hidden in the hills of southern Luberon, this restaurant is known only to locals and the most discerning gourmets. Madame Maurice prepares fantastic lamb roasted on a spit in the fireplace and homemade desserts from her grandmother's recipes. The atmosphere is as if you have been invited to a Provencal family's home. Be sure to call ahead: there are few seats and demand always exceeds supply.
Terraces with views
7. Le Petit Cafe, Lacoste
A cafe on the main square of Lacoste — the village where the Marquis de Sade once lived. The terrace offers a remarkable view of the valley and Bonnieux on the opposite hillside. The cuisine is simple but high quality: salads, tartines, pastas. Perfect for a light lunch. Average check: 20-30 euros. Just 10 minutes from the villa.
8. Le 5, Menerbes
A restaurant with a view worth a visit in itself. The terrace literally hovers above the vineyards, with the Luberon mountains on the horizon. They serve Provencal dishes with modern touches. Excellent selection of local wines. The restaurant is about 12 minutes by car from the villa.
For every day
9. Cafe de la Gare, Bonnieux
A simple, casual cafe right in Bonnieux. This is where local farmers have breakfast and families with children have lunch. Croque-monsieur, steak with fries, salade nicoise — nothing fancy, but everything is fresh and honest. Generous portions, prices from 12 euros per dish. A great option for a day when you want something tasty without the formalities.
10. Le Bistrot du Paradou, Le Paradou
A bit further from Bonnieux (about 30 minutes), but worth the trip. A famous bistro that serves one fixed lunch: starter, main course, dessert — and they are all superb. The menu changes daily. You eat what the chef has prepared. No choice — and that is the whole beauty of it. The price of lunch is about 35 euros, including wine.
Practical tips
- Book ahead. In season (June-September) popular restaurants fill up a week in advance. Michelin-starred ones — two to three weeks.
- Lunch vs dinner. Many restaurants are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Lunch is usually from 12:00 to 14:00, dinner from 19:30.
- Local wines. Ask for wines AOC Luberon or Ventoux — they cost half the price of their famous neighbors from Chateauneuf-du-Pape, and the quality is every bit as good.
- Ask us. We know every restaurant in the area and are happy to help with reservations. Just write to us before your arrival — we will put together a gastronomic program for the whole week.