Think of French cooking and you think of good food, enjoyed properly. From foie gras and confit to juicy pruneaux d’Agen, aromatic tomatoes, fragrant melons and full-bodied wines — this sunny region is one of the true cradles of French gastronomy. Below are our favourite places, all tried ourselves.
« Quelle belle maison que cette auberge de village tenue par l’adorable couple Agathe et Benjamin Toursel ! Dès l’accueil, on ressent cette ambiance familiale et chaleureuse. Une cuisine ultraprécise d’un cador qui ne fait pas de concession. »
— Gault & MillauWorth combining with a visit to the church in Moirax — it is very beautiful.
In the heart of Prayssas, David and Sylvie serve honest food made with fresh local produce. The 13th-century armoury hall makes a unique setting. Open daily for lunch and dinner — closed Sunday evening and Wednesday.
From bistros on the market square to tables with a view over the valley. Booking is advisable almost everywhere — especially at weekends and in high season.
Formerly ‘Tête d’Ail’ — different cooking, still very good. There is always a vegetarian menu.
Open Wednesday to Saturday evening. A menu du jour during the week, à la carte at weekends. Booking essential.
Open again. Lunch menu €19.
Formerly Les allées gourmandes, reopened in June 2023. More of a tapas bar and restaurant, serving lunch. Lunch menu €20, terrace overlooking the Lot.
The lovely terrace is perfect for eating outdoors. Highly recommended.
Lunch menu €21, weekdays only — starter, main course and dessert.
Run by friendly Dutch owners in a peaceful, quiet spot. Easy parking. Also open for Sunday lunch in summer.
A friendly bistro in the heart of Villeréal, a stone’s throw from the church.
Crêperie, bar and restaurant. A good place to eat with children — the terrace is right on the market square. Closed Monday evening, Sunday evening and Wednesday.
In July and August, open from Tuesday lunch to Sunday lunch (12–2pm and 7–9pm). Booking advisable.
Good food with a superb view over the Lot valley. Open for lunch Tuesday to Friday and on Sunday from noon. Friday evening by reservation, Saturday from 7pm.
Good value and traditional. Speciality: soupière de l’auberge. Closed Sunday evening, Tuesday evening and Wednesday.
Local produce, fresh fruit, bread and regional specialities.
Eat at the producers’ stalls at long shared tables — a chance to taste the local specialities.
Tip: bring cutlery, plates, glasses and napkins — you will find them in the tall kitchen cupboards, behind the middle door, in the wooden crate at the bottom.