4 Best Restaurants in St-Tropez, The French Riviera

What could be more fashionable than tucking into exquisite cuisine—prepared by Michelin-starred guest chefs such as Yannick Alleno and Arnaud Donckele—in an enchanting sheltered garden designed by Peter Wirtz at the House of Dior? Meals are reasonably priced for St-Tropez, and the dessert selection is large (consider trying the much-lauded, tiny, round D’Choux pastries, which come in a variety of flavors). This magical oasis is also the perfect place to toast the sunset with a glass of Champagne; expect to pay €60 for une verre of Dom Pérignon 2004, though.

The busy terrace here often doubles as a stadium for different factions cheering on local pétanque players in Place des Lices. Service can be slow, but the setting, the food (say, black truffle and foie gras macaroni with Parmesan or seven-hour lamb confit with spices), and the piano bar with throwbacks to Piaf and Aznavour make this place memorable. It's open daily 8 am–3 am (with a well-priced €18 lunch menu) and always seems packed, so reservations are a good idea.

Fish, fish, and more fish—sea bass, salmon, sole, sardines, monkfish, lobster, and crayfish all fill the boats that pull into the Old Port and find their way onto the menu here. Although grilled seafood (with a little thyme and perhaps a whisper of olive oil and garlic) is the order of the day, this is also a stronghold for bouillabaisse. The clientele is buffed and bronzed, but the servers tend to treat everyone like tourists. The lunch plat du jour (€21) is a bargain in this town; otherwise, mind the check: you'll be surprised just how expensive fish per 100g can be.

It’s always a good sign when people are willing to line up for a seat at a tiny joint like this one. Tucked away on an unassuming street behind the port, with views of Notre Dame church, this restaurant is where you come for classic French food without the St-Tropez prices. The magret de carnard has diners salivating, and the traditional veal and lamb dishes are equally as delicious.