MICHELIN Guide Bib Gourmand 2025

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. The owner couple opened this shop in 2012 to serve rice paddy eel noodles, a speciality from their home county of Baoying, Yangzhou. The fried version is the most popular choice: boasting velvety eel, bouncy noodles and smoky wok hei. It is served with a bowl of eel bone soup. For the soup varieties, choose between milky eel soup and clear broth topped with sautéed eel in a thick glaze. Add pork balls, pork aspic or cracklings for something extra.

Bib Gourmand • Jiangsu Cuisine. One of the oldest lamb restaurants, San Xing has been around for decades. To ensure quality, the owner works only with the freshest meat. For larger parties, check out the lamb feast menus at different price points. The must-try braised lamb ribs in white broth is known for its intense umami and richness; order lamb blood curd on the side and add to the broth. Their steamed lamb dumplings are painstakingly crafted and tasty.

Bib Gourmand • Fujian. Its bright red sign may be hard to miss but it's the lingering herbal aromas that draw in customers from near and far. The owner used to run a Chinese clinic and opened Shan Gu Tang to serve food with medicinal value. The small menu is dominated by herbal soups, alongside blanched items, marinated meats and seasoned taro rice. Try the free-range chicken soup with russula mushrooms, or pork intestine soup with lotus seeds.

Bib Gourmand • Fujian. Just a stone's throw from the famous Yongde Guild Hall, this restaurant in the Shangxiahang Historical District is made up of the restored buildings housing private rooms, a main dining room and a tea parlour. The menu is mostly Fujianese, with a few Cantonese options and original creations. The Yongchun white duck soup impresses with deep herbal aromas; the Xiamen Sha Cha seafood hot pot with abalone, squid, oysters and shrimps is too good to miss.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. At this friendly neighbourhood shop in the old town, the owner couple knows every customer by name. Sha cha noodles are their speciality: whatever the time of the day, the rich broth is always piping hot, striking a balance between garlic, peanut and chilli flavours. In addition to year-round favourite toppings – from fish balls and pork liver to pork tendon – umami-laden seasonal shellfish such as oysters and razor clams are also a must!

Bib Gourmand • Chao Zhou. This architectural behemoth dripping in charm boasts a striking entrance and a cathedral ceiling in the dining room. A live fish tank showcases the freshest catch shipped from Chaoshan daily. Other fish and produce are displayed over a bed of ice, in wet market style. The Chaoshan chefs pride themselves on authentic recipes like braised meat in a spiced soy marinade. Also try the blanched yellowtail scad served cold with a bean sauce on the side.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. For over 20 years, this longstanding restaurant has been serving a unique noodle dish from Linhai City – mai xia. Wheat flour batter is scraped into a boiling broth to make soft, chewy noodles that curl like shrimps. Try their version with ‘three delicacies’: marinated beef shank, clams and shrimps, alongside fried egg and shredded radish. Whether it’s for breakfast or a late-night supper, a bowl of delicious mai xia always hits the spot.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. Since 1987, this simple noodle shop has had a special place in the hearts of Changzhouese because of their pork trotters, slow-cooked in a white marinade. The collagen-rich meat falls off the bone and the mild herbal warmth is nicely rounded. Order with noodle soup or with noodles tossed in sauce on the side. For the ultimate Changzhou experience, pair the trotters with noodles tossed in “red soup” that boasts sweet umami and a lovely chew. Expect to queue.

Bib Gourmand • Hang Zhou. Embedded in Hangzhou’s collective culinary memory, the predecessor of this simple, friendly joint dates back to the 1990s. The chalkboard menu covers many traditional home-style favourites, with river fish being the speciality. Braised soft-shelled turtle with pickled cabbage boasts gelatinous texture, deep flavours and mild heat. Quick-poached pork kidneys impress with spot-on doneness and snappy texture. Yellow croaker on rice cake is another must-try.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. This tiny gem run by a married couple has won the hearts of locals courtesy of their mi gao – steamed rice noodle rolls with a choice of filling like ground pork and veggies. Ask for an extra ladle of spiced soy marinade for additional flavour and depth. Also recommended is the plain mi gao without filling. Fuding pork slices in sour spicy soup are made with hand-chopped pork and boast bouncy texture. Expect to share a table at mealtimes.

Bib Gourmand • Huaiyang. A quiet oasis in the bustling city centre, Shuang Dong is tucked away in a non-descript alley near the historical Dongguan Street. The restaurant is extremely popular among locals on account of the wide array of well-made Huaiyang fare and local specialities it offers. With its bold flavours and rich sauces, the stinky tofu and pork intestine in sizzling hot pot is perfect with a bowl of steamed rice. Reserve a room for more privacy.

Bib Gourmand • Zhejiang. Located in a bustling part of the city, this cosy restaurant has enjoyed substantial success almost since it opened. The seafood displayed in the live fish tanks at the entrance is superlative. In addition to signatures like seaweed sausage and fish cake, also try the steamed crab with pork belly strips and fermented shrimp paste: the porky richness deftly complements the seafood umami. Sensible prices are another strong selling point.

Bib Gourmand • Sichuan. Named after two Chinese herbs, the concept of a therapeutic diet is at the core of this establishment. Diners are greeted by an herbal tea sweetened with stevia, and the menu is built around Chinese medicines. The signature beef noodle soup is infused with dang gui, believed to improve blood circulation, making it a lunch time favourite for many. Yellow croaker with galangal and patchouli is also popular. Some dishes require pre-ordering.

Bib Gourmand • Fujian. The chef-owner has almost 30 years' experience under his belt, with notable stints in various hotel restaurants. Respecting traditions while re-inventing Minnan cuisine by incorporating Western techniques and creative touches, he has come up with a menu that is familiar and fresh at the same time. Try his oyster omelette, in which umami meets the crispness of water chestnut and celery. The slow-cooked pork belly with shiitake is another treat.

Bib Gourmand • Cantonese. The rows of stoneware pots on charcoal stoves not only look spectacular, but their contents also smell heavenly. It is precisely these slow-boiled soups that draw diners day and night. Each pot takes four hours to make and they tend to sell out early. The chef, who has been crafting Cantonese fare for over 20 years, also makes a mean Cantonese barbecue, as well as stir-fries and claypot dishes. Try the live seafood from the fish tank, too.

Bib Gourmand • Vegetarian. Commanding spectacular city views, the sun-drenched, plant-filled space caters to a well-heeled business clientele. The Western-centric menu focuses on vegetables and mushrooms, as opposed to typical Chinese vegetarian cuisine based on soy faux meats. The bamboo fungus with pickled radish, chilli and rattan pepper has a wonderfully crisp texture and tingling tanginess. The deep-fried Yunnan eggplant with vegan demi-glace is also unmissable.

Bib Gourmand • Jiangsu Cuisine. The owner refurbished a three-storey historic villa to house South Garden. The retro furniture and Pingtan soundtrack instantly take diners back to the first half of the 20C. On the food side, Changzhou classics rub shoulders with a few Jiangzhe favourites. Try traditional Jiangsu crabmeat and crab roe paste – the intense umami is balanced by pepper and vinegar. For a sweet finale, try deep-fried meringue stuffed with caul fat and red bean.

Bib Gourmand • Chao Zhou. This tiny gem has changed hands, but the kitchen is still run by Chaoshan natives. The small menu stars all the greatest hits of Chaoshan cuisine, with raw marinated mud crab that packs tons of oomph standing out in particular. Diners need to book via a texting app and pre-order their food, which does streamline the process immensely. To round out your meal, try the ‘ginger potato’ and split mung bean sweet soup.

Bib Gourmand • Jiangsu Cuisine. Perched on the shore of Jinji Lake, this restaurant champions a modern take on Suzhou cuisine that shows restraint in the use of oil and seasoning. Prices are reasonable considering the scenic setting and remarkable food quality. The signature lion's head meatball soup is made with Berkshire pork, longsnout catfish and water chestnuts, delivering a bouncy texture and crunch. Reservations are only accepted for private rooms and the lakeside terrace.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. This noodle shop started out as a street hawker stall back in 1989. It is now run by the second-generation owner who cooks with only the freshest seafood delivered daily. Their signature ‘san xian mian’ features three kinds of seafood, namely shrimps, clams and fish; the noodles are springy in texture and the seafood broth boasts deep, complex aromas thanks to vintage wine. Stir-fries like spicy sautéed pork kidney are packed with wok hei.

Bib Gourmand • Jiangsu Cuisine. Traditional Chinese windows, wooden furnishings and an ink painting mural of Lake Taihu lend the space a nostalgic vibe. There is no paper menu – just peruse the options on a blackboard dominated by authentic Jiangsu home-style dishes and freshwater delicacies, and photos of dishes on display. Try the steamed Taihu "three whites" platter – topmouth culter, noodlefish and white shrimps. Made in-house, their noodlefish and pork wontons are springy and juicy.

Bib Gourmand • Sichuan. Nestled deep inside a warehouse-turned-cultural park, Tan is a sibling of The Bridge in Chengdu. The bright and airy room spans two levels, its cubic furniture accentuating the ceiling height and minimalist elegance. The Sichuanese kitchen team excels both in classic and innovative recipes, while retaining the quintessence of Sichuanese flavour profiles. Try the mapo tofu with beef bone marrow – the two intermingle in a bold, zesty sauce.

Bib Gourmand • Sichuan. A ‘Tan’ is a pickling jar typically used by the Sichuanese. It may sound rustic and simple, but the restaurant set in a historic building features classic Chinese motifs tweaked with modern retro glam. The kitchen team of mostly Sichuan natives shows solid skills in signature items such as sautéed eel with Chinese patchouli that flaunts flowery aromas and fiery heat. For a sweet finale, try the soft, jiggly iced jelly in brown sugar syrup.

Bib Gourmand • Dim Sum. For 10-plus years, this simple shop has focused on one item – bianshi dumplings that are steamed, deep-fried, pan-fried or served in soup. Each dumpling is generously filled with ground pork, mashed tofu and water bamboo shoots before being folded by hand into an ingot shape with its paper-thin wrapper draping like butterfly wings. Try their premium version of ginger juice egg custard; the ground pork and walnuts add lovely textures to the sweet treat.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. From the ornate outer façade to the serene interior overlooking lush greenery, this venue drips authentic Jiangnan charm. On the menu, Suzhou-style noodles take centre stage: order them in red soy-based broth, white meat broth or tossed in sauces and then garnish with your favourite hot or cold topping. The signature five-shrimp noodles offer a cornucopia of pleasure with the crustacean’s meat, roe and tomalley in shrimp broth and shrimp oil.

Bib Gourmand • Cantonese. The collaborative effort of two local restaurant brands focuses on local flavours and myriad techniques to make Cantonese food even better. Many diners come for the soups, which are double-boiled for at least four hours – expect deep umami but little grease. The steamed fish jaw with pickled young ginger and sweet soybean paste, and deep-fried chitterlings are also popular. Most seafood dishes are not on the menu – ask the server what is available.

Bib Gourmand • Cantonese. Since opening in 2018, this tiny shop has been jam-packed with diners, so expect to share a table with strangers at peak hours. It is named after a street in the owner's native Hong Kong and has nearly 30 types of claypot rice in dai pai dong style, plus three kinds of double-boiled soups. Try their claypot rice topped with assorted Cantonese preserved meats – and savour every grain enrobed in perfumed oil and the crispy crust on the base.

Bib Gourmand • Vegetarian. The brand started on the banks of West Lake, Hangzhou, hence the name. This outpost near Longhua Temple is especially popular among worshippers. The room is furnished in a modern style, with a show kitchen where diners can see the chefs making dim sum. Try their matsutake soup dumplings, with three mushrooms enrobed in translucent skin. Seared tofu is loaded with smoky peppery flavours. The desserts and drinks are also popular.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. The chef from Huzhou focuses on noodle soup with red-braised mutton that embodies the food culture of his hometown. He champions nose-to-tail cooking and nothing goes to waste, as the bones are used to make flavoursome broth. While the most popular cuts are ribs, legs and trotters, offal, like kidney that are gelatinous and toothsome, as well as layered intestine with a lovely chew and buttery richness, also go down a treat.

Bib Gourmand • Sichuan. A quaint mansion obscured by a big tree is home to this restaurant run by the Woos. The cosy space shows hints of nostalgia; both cold appetisers and hot mains are based on tradition, but fine-tuned and modernised. The fried wild-caught yellow croaker in a mound of fried chillies has silky, moist flesh; with its bold flavour, it goes perfectly with alcohol. The sweet sticky rice dumplings with a runny filling round off your meal nicely.

Bib Gourmand • Vegetarian. After converting to veganism and going on to become a monk, the founder of this chain experienced improvements to his life. This inspired him to serve tasty vegetarian dishes eschewing eggs, alcohol and alliums in his restaurants. In the Kung Pao monkey head mushroom, the meat-like texture is harnessed in sweet and sour sauce with peanuts and bamboo shoots. No wonder it has been the restaurant's signature dish since the flagship opened in 2003!

Bib Gourmand • Sichuan. While some guests may sip tea and play mahjong in the peaceful Chinese garden by a busy road, discerning food lovers flock here for the river fish dishes. Plump swamp eels from inland rivers are poached in a flavourful spiced broth and drizzled with sizzling hot oil at the table, making their flesh tender and juicy, but with a crispy chew. Stir-fried pork liver and kidney with bird’s eye chilli and pickled chilli is another firm favourite.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. Red columns, tiled roofs and lanterns evoke the quintessence of Chinese architecture. On the menu, Suzhou noodles take centre stage, with Fengzhen-style pork noodles being a highlight (available May-Oct only). The white broth is loaded with umami and homemade wine lees impart depth and sweetness. In winter, try the braised pork noodles in a soy-based broth, and sautéed matsutake mushroom. Round off your meal with osmanthus fox nut sweet soup.

Bib Gourmand • Shandong. Founded in 1822, Tong He Ju is one of the oldest Shandong restaurants in Beijing and was heralded the first of the ‘Big Eight’ eateries. The signboard itself is a historic relic, featuring handwriting by Emperor Puyi’s younger brother. Specialities such as braised cuttlefish roe in a spicy-sour glaze; cod fillet in distillers grain sauce; and san bu zhan, an egg yolk pudding fried with mung bean flour and sugar, all adhere strictly to old-time recipes.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles and Congee. Tucked away in an alley, this two-storey, no-frills joint has been around for over 30 years. You're not here for the ambience, but for the poached chicken – only free-range pullets (that have not yet laid an egg) are used, for their springy skin, oily richness, silky flesh and robust flavour. The creamy chicken congee is loaded with juicy, velvety meat. Seasoned with soy sauce, the stir-fried ribbon rice noodles with beef seduces with smoky wok hei.

Bib Gourmand • Zhejiang. Slightly off the beaten track, the wood- and bamboo-rich interior exudes a rustic, farmhouse feel. Similarly, farm-style cooking from the Qiandao Lake region defines the menu, showcasing ingredients like dried bamboo shoot, free-range chicken, river fish and foraged greens. Sautéed fiddlehead with cured ham packs big crispy flavours. Thick rice soup is loaded with tofu, chillies, garlic, pork intestine and dried fiddlehead, boasting deep umami.

Bib Gourmand • Fujian. Founded in 2003, this restaurant was named after Tongan, the cradle of Xiamen culture. The space is bright and airy, with a wall of oyster shell collage as a focal point. Formerly a fisherman, the owner is picky about his fish. Try the boneless giant mottled eel in claypot – the rich sauce complements the oily fish nicely. The quintessential Tongan classic of seared pork belly with dried oysters, chestnuts and shiitake is also recommended.

Bib Gourmand • Fujian. Famous for its beef dishes, this shop was named after the owner, whose moniker means "wryneck". His signature braised beef rib exudes curry flavour and a hint of Chinese herbs. The fork-tender meat goes well with the buttery seasoned rice. Another highlight is the double-boiled oxtail – the meat is slow cooked until gelatinous; infused with Indian mulberry root, the broth tastes mildly sweet. Certain items tend to sell out fast, so come early.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. The owner hails from Yibin County, Sichuan. He opened this shop to serve authentic Yibin-style Ranmian noodles tossed in a chilli paste with ground peanuts, scallion, bean sprouts and sesames. For toppings, choose between the aromatic chilli ground beef or the hearty braised ginger duck. Those who prefer their noodles more toothsome may opt for the thick ribbon variety. On top of that, dried meats and sausages are also offered at dinner.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. A whitewashed two-storey building with a tiled roof is home to this reincarnation of a noodle stall founded in 1931. The delightfully ornate interior pays homage to traditional Chinese decor. Suzhou noodles are either served in a soy-based or clear broth, or tossed in sauces. There are tens of toppings to choose from – if in doubt, go for any of the popular combinations. The shrimp trio with shrimps, their roe and tomalley is too good to be missed.

Bib Gourmand • Chinese. The room sports a modern Chinese vibe, dotted with framed orange scarves and table mats in matching equestrian motifs. To suit the local palate, the kitchen dials down the heat slightly, but the food still packs an authentic Jiangxi kick. Rich, flavoursome double-steamed soft-shelled tortoise with fish maw is served according to a ritual that symbolises good fortune. Jiangxi-style three-cup chicken boasts firm flesh and perfect caramelisation.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. The kitchen helmed by a veteran chef from Jinhua turns out traditional snacks made just like in the old days. Rest assured that all the pork is sourced from Jinhua pigs, boasting robust flavours and buttery richness. Pork and scallion stuffed flatbread, as well as scallion pork bun are both juicy and well seasoned. House-made soymilk comes in three varieties: sweet, savoury, and Jinhua’s unique savoury ginger – perfect on winter mornings.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. The huge menu pasted on the wall may seem overwhelming, but the must-try for first-timers is definitely their signature noodles in ginger broth. Rather than ginger juice, the broth is slow-cooked with ginger tea that impart mellow warmth without being overly spicy. It comes with an array of shellfish, veggies, mushrooms, as well as ginger-infused fried egg. For a sweet finale, try their creamy egg custard with ground walnuts and ginger juice.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. This shop is famed for its Aozao noodle soup, a Kunshan speciality and designated as intangible cultural heritage. Just a stone's throw from Pingjiang historic quarter, the restaurant is clean and cosy, albeit not particularly spacious. The noodles, cooked al dente, come with your choice of one or two toppings, such as braised pork, duck or fried eel strips – the most popular and loaded with umami. The red broth is flavoursome and sweet.

Bib Gourmand • Cantonese. Shi shi chicken – steamed chicken served with fermented clam dip – ranks among the top 10 chicken dishes in Guangzhou, but it’s hard to come by these days. The chef, who once worked in a prestigious hotel, uses Qingyuan birds for this dish because of their bouncy skin and silky flesh. Besides the clam dip, it comes with soy sauce and ginger scallion dip. Also try the rice noodles made from scratch in-house and dressed in a secret soy blend.

Bib Gourmand • Cantonese. This joint expanded in 2020, adding a dining room across from the original shop. Its signature Yixin chicken remains the key draw – birds from Qingyuan weighing about 1.8 kg are slow-cooked in a white marinade with herbs and dried scallops, boasting juicy, silky flesh and glistening, springy skin. Also try its osmanthus roll, an ancient very rare recipe, consisting of fatty pork and salted egg yolk in a duck intestine casing, sliced and doused in honey glaze.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. In 1989, the founder started his first noodle shop just down the road. After several moves, he is back in his old neighbourhood once again. In his 70s, he still makes his own pork sauce like the old days, although the shop is now run by his son. His signature ‘weird taste’ noodles are dressed in a shiitake pork sauce that is mildly hot, sweet and numbing. Beef noodles in a spicy bean sauce include diced bamboo shoots for a lovely crunch.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. Tucked away in a nondescript alley, this simple shop with its bright red wall can't be missed. Owner Wu Lan has been making sha cha noodles for decades, with a foothold on this spot for over 20 years. She makes her sweet, mildly spicy and deeply nutty broth every morning. Complemented by toppings such as pork liver, shrimps and even abalone, it is addictive! In addition to the sha cha noodles, try her golden and crispy oyster omelette.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. This much-loved, family-run noodle shop has been around since 1991. In addition to hand-made wontons, it is also famous for lao lu mian: chewy, slippery and squiggly hand-cut noodles served in a dark, soy-based broth perfumed with an array of spices. Consider ordering add-on toppings, such as braised pork intestine, pork sparerib, and soft-poached egg with runny yolk. Expect to share a table at mealtimes.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. With decades of history to its name, this noodle shop is always busy. There is just one thing on the menu – sha cha noodles – but over 20 different toppings to choose from: an array of seafood, including plump razor clams and creamy oysters, and pork offal – even pork heart and pork tripe – are solid options. Less garlicky than its counterparts, its broth is made from toasted, not fried, peanuts to accentuate nuttiness and umami.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. After opening in 2017, Wu Zi shot to fame, becoming the best-known noodle shop in the area. Classic Hangzhou-style noodles are either served in soup or tossed in sauces with various toppings – prepared to the exacting standards of the owner, a chef by profession. The pork kidney and liver are nicely browned while retaining their succulence and a lovely chewiness. Another must-try classic topping: shrimps and eel sautéed with onion, mushrooms and dried tofu.

Bib Gourmand • Vegetarian. Connected to a beachside promenade, this villa restaurant prides itself on its breathtaking ocean views, but also a Zen-inspired decor and plant-based cooking with a touch of finesse. It serves two set menus, both featuring season-driven dishes. Inspired by the Fujian classic Buddha Jumps Over the Wall, the rich and flavoursome Six-Treasure Soup is made with six different mushrooms. Ask for a table on the patio on a balmy night.

Bib Gourmand • Seafood. With live fish tanks lining the entrance, this is clearly the place to be for fresh seafood. The owner sources his fish directly from local fishermen, ensuring his catch is always the best. Minnan-style seafood defines the menu, and the peanut worm salad in a mustard dressing makes for an interesting start. The braised carpet shark belly and liver is another must-try: the liver is creamy, like tofu, and the belly has a fine, springy texture.

Bib Gourmand • Hunanese. For almost 20 years, diners have been flocking here for authentic Hunanese fare. Head of organic bighead carp is traditionally steamed with heaps of chopped chillies, but you can also opt for the variation that uses two kinds of chillies, or have it braised with perilla leaves. Soft and umami-laden, the fried duck in Yongzhou style is perfumed in litsea oil. Snacks like stinky tofu and mugwort dumplings are also popular. Expect to queue at mealtimes.

Bib Gourmand • Hunanese. The Chinese farmhouse style interior boasts an open kitchen, in which authentic Hunanese dishes are crafted using the freshest ingredients from the province. The steamed fish head covered in chopped chilli sauce from Xiangtan has a briny taste and fiery kick. The sautéed Ningxiang pork with dried chilli, scallion and garlic sprouts is tender and boasts deep aromas. Try the deep-fried snow water stinky tofu with house-made sour chilli sauce.

Bib Gourmand • Fujian. Its façade may be nondescript but its open-air kitchen provides quite a spectacle. Minnan-style soups are slow-cooked over heated sand on clay stoves for three to four hours so need to be pre-ordered; the availability of some soups is limited. Signatures include Muscovy duck soup with mud crab, which combines seafood umami with meaty flavours, and braised soft-shelled tortoise seasoned with ginger and green Sichuan peppercorns.

Bib Gourmand • Cantonese. Standing the test of time since 1988, this operation started out as an ‘ice parlour’ serving cold drinks and light snacks. Now firmly in the 21C, it has morphed into a chain famous for home-style cooking and this branch pays tribute to the charm of historic Guangzhou. Signatures include steamed Qingyuan chicken and soy-marinated goose. The stir-fried eel fillet with French beans seduces with aromas of garlic and shallot as the naturally sweet veggies work wonders with the firm eel flesh.

Bib Gourmand • Zhejiang. This joint venture wedged between two famous restaurants occupies a villa surrounded by lush tea farms. Zhejiang country cooking defines the score, which showcases locally sourced ingredients and veg from its own farm. The old ceramic fire pots by the entrance are still used to simmer some recipes over charcoal, including their famous chicken soup. Hearty and springy, braised pig’s head meat is served with litsea seed-scented soy sauce.

Bib Gourmand • Zhejiang. From rubble masonry to rain cape and bamboo hat, the room sports a farming theme to complement its rustic, country-style lineup. There is no paper menu, so diners browse the display counters as if in a wet market and place their orders directly with the staff. The super-fresh seafood platter is particularly popular. Ask to have your pick braised home-style like the locals, adding pointy-ended nut-filled dumplings known as ji deng wan.

Bib Gourmand • Fujian. By the pier, this roof-top dining room commands gorgeous views of Gulangyu. The owner chose to re-create the ancient Fujian-style architecture and landscaping in his stunning venue, complete with a water feature, lush greenery and stone arches. The menu is focused on Minnan fare, illustrated by deep-fried taro dumplings with pork filling. Salt-baked Japanese scad accentuates its oily, natural flavour. Don’t miss the puppet show at night.

Bib Gourmand • Zhejiang. The owner, who hails from Shaoxing, insists on driving back to his hometown every other day to source the freshest ingredients for his restaurant – which explains why the menu is handwritten on a white board and different every day. That said, the must-try stinky tofu is a permanent fixture: made with 20-plus-year-old fermenting brine from his family, it has rich deep flavours that complement the lamb brain it is steamed with. Try the river fish, too.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. This well-established, down-to-earth joint specialises in beef rice noodle soup - a staple for many Ningde natives. The broth exudes meaty and herbal aromas that draw in the customers. The slippery rice noodles work magically with pickled mustard greens as well as sliced beef, which retains a lovely chew. Also try their beef offal soup that features cuts like bouncy tripe and tender ox tongue. Beef meatball soup is another best-seller.

Bib Gourmand • Dim Sum. Down an alley near the Drum Tower, a yellow flag heralds the "wonton king", priming diners for the dumpling feast to come. Having retired in 2016, the owner learnt to make wonton from scratch, before opening this shop. The filling is made in-house with freshly slaughtered (not frozen) pork; ultra fresh vegetables and a sprinkle of black sesame seeds impart extra aromas; dried shrimps add umami depth to the broth. The potstickers are tasty, too.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. Initially a cold appetiser shop in Hongmiao District, this place moved several times before settling in the bustling city centre. The signature duck blood curd glass noodle soup comes with a choice of different duck cuts and offal. If in doubt, go for the version with a bit of everything. The duck broth is deeply flavoured, the meat moist and silky. Classic palates will also relish the roast duck with crispy skin and juicy, marinated flesh.

Bib Gourmand • Hang Zhou. (The restaurant is temporarily closed.) This tiny shop specialising in Xiaoshan cooking has no paper menu – you pick from the fish tank and various dishes on display. Steaming is a key characteristic of Xiaoshan cuisine and, here, river fish, meat and vegetables are steamed with ham and cured pork, yellow wine, or chicken fat and soy sauce to bring out their natural flavours. Three-year-old duck is steamed with ham for intense umami. The pork stuffed omelette roll is another must-try.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. This long-standing neighbourhood noodle shop feels airy and bright. The noodles are tossed in scallion oil or served in broth – the former being the more popular style – and come with a heap of fried spring onions. Additional toppings include the old-Shanghai favourite of briny-sweet eel with springy meat, and, whichever garnish you choose, the owner adds a spoonful of spicy ground pork (on the house). Come early to beat the peak-time queues.

Bib Gourmand • Zhejiang. At a remove from the city, this rustic place set amid tea fields is run by a husband-and-wife team. He is a fishing enthusiast, and freshwater fish from nearby lakes and rivers is the main event here. The braised dark sleeper with salted potherb mustard and bamboo shoot impresses with its silky meat and a gingery kick. Try the sautéed free-range chicken from local tea farms. To avoid disappointment, pre-order seasonal dishes, as availability is limited.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. This is not only a noodle shop, but also a factory that makes bouncy noodles for various restaurants in Guangzhou and Hong Kong. These famous strands made with duck eggs are dried outside the shop, which is nestled in a picturesque park. Dried plaice toasted on charcoal is added to the broth alongside pork backbones and dried shrimp for depth. Plump and brimming with filling, the flying fish roe wontons have umami-laden beads that pop in the mouth.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. Still going strong after 30+ years, this branch may lack the views of its Lizhiwan counterpart, but the food tastes just as good. Springy duck egg noodles are made in its Lizhiwan factory, blanched à la minute and tossed either in shrimp roe or in a flavourful broth made with dried plaice, pork bones and dried shrimp. Don't miss the beef offal soup – the thinly sliced organ meats are rid of any odd taste and boast velvety textures.

Bib Gourmand • Jiangzhe. Now run by the third-generation owner, this family business opened its doors in 1959. The decor is no great shakes, but authentic old-time Nanjing flavours, generous portions and wallet-friendly prices have won it acclaim. Be sure to try their hand-made egg-coated beef potstickers – juicy, aromatic and nicely caramelised, they are a must! The white silver carp head soup in claypot with tofu and wood ear fungus boasts contrasting textures.

Bib Gourmand • Hang Zhou. Since 1987, diners have been flocking here for authentic traditional Hangzhou food. The head chef excels at preparing river fish, such as river shrimps in Huadiao wine, a feast of runny roe, briny-sweet meat and mesmerising aromas. With a bit of luck, you will get to savour the tender oily flesh of steamed river eel with Chinese ham – best enjoyed with their home-brewed bayberry wine. Ask the servers about the daily specials.

Bib Gourmand • Cantonese. Since 1989, this household name has been building a loyal fan base with its signature swamp eel rice. Of all its branches, this two-storey one in the old part of town is the flagship. As well as its famous rice dish topped with crisp, tasty eel that imparts wok hei, the kitchen recommends fatty roast char siu, Guangzhou-style stir-fries, and eel dishes such as sautéed mottled eel slices with capsicums, which promise firm meat in a savoury sauce.

Bib Gourmand • Cantonese. The room is divided into zones with different ambiances – satin tablecloths signal a chic, formal vibe, while distressed wooden tables feel hip and casual. The culinary highlight is undoubtedly the piping hot congee claypot loaded with fresh seafood, from sand shrimps to mud crab. You can also pick your own fish from the tank and ask servers the best way to have it cooked. Cantonese stir-fries and sizzling claypot dishes exude exceptional wok hei.

Bib Gourmand • Sichuan. Furnished like a vintage staging post, this restaurant whisks you back in time. Feel free to join the servers and dress up in period costume for a selfie. The Sichuanese head chef feeds hungry patrons with Chongqing-style cooking characterised by rich, intense flavours. Stir-fried dried pork with smoked bamboo shoot packs serious wok hei and a hint of smokiness. On the shelves, local liquors are on display, including some brewed in-house.

Bib Gourmand • Seafood. This is the first restaurant of the chain which opened its doors in 1995. Diners make their choice from live fish tanks, but the restaurant also offers a splendid lineup of traditional Fujian fare. Lychee pork, Fuzhou’s own sweet and sour pork, is half-fatty pork coated in starch, deep-fried till crispy, and tossed in a sweet and sour glaze. Puxian lor mee is prized for its wide range of toppings that deliver layers of flavours and textures.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. After a recent move, the shop is now tucked away down an alley but is easily found by following the heady aromas of the house specialty: slow-braised lamb in a giant wok with broth and Shaoxing wine until the meat falls off the bone. Thin noodles that cling well to broth and 12-month-old lambs are shipped daily from Tongxiang, Zhejiang. The lamb and offal noodle soup offers free noodle refills or order a side of lamb’s legs and trotters.

Bib Gourmand • Dim Sum. The owner's father was a chef at Jiming Restaurant, an iconic Nanjing establishment. Having inherited his skill for making authentic Suzhou-style soup dumplings, she opened this no-frills shop in a residential neighbourhood in 2012. On the concise menu, the handmade soup dumplings with thin skin and juicy, mildly sweet pork filling are the main event. Regulars also opt for pork wonton soup. Closes at 2pm. Arrive early to avoid disappointment.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. For over 20 years, this shop specialising in pork offal and blood curd noodle soup has been a favourite with the locals. Their broth, made with pork bones, sports a hint of sweetness. Soft but chewy intestine, jiggly blood curd and slippery rice noodles present a mouth-watering ensemble. Their house-made wheat pancakes are also a must – try the salted mustard green and fatty pork variety that packs big flavour and briny richness.

Bib Gourmand • Ningbo. This restaurant on a shopping street, with a main dining space on the lower floor and private rooms upstairs, can be tricky to find. Diners come for authentic Ningbo cooking, such as drunken mud whelks, braised vegetables and stir-fried clams in board bean paste with salted potherb mustard greens. Live fish and seafood shipped daily from Zhoushan, Ninghai and Wenzhou are also popular; the steamed river eel in ginger juice has to be pre-ordered.

Bib Gourmand • Dim Sum. This shop has been selling pan-fried buns for over two decades. Now with a pair of branches in town, it is a household name beloved by locals. The queue may be off-putting, but rest assured that the buns – with fluffy dough, crispy bases and soupy fillings – are well worth the wait. The pork version may be hugely popular, but the vegan buns with Indian aster and dried tofu are incredibly aromatic. Try the taro balls in osmanthus sweet soup, too.

Bib Gourmand • Cantonese. The three-storey room is furnished with orange tables and leather chairs that evoke 1980s nostalgia. For over three decades, Ya Yuan has been feeding hungry locals with classic home-style dishes such as slow-boiled soups and claypot rice. With its velvety flesh and gelatinous skin, the poached Qingyuan chicken dressed in scallion oil is addictively aromatic. Even the post-meal complimentary mung bean or red bean sweet soups are made with care.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. This tiny gem in the city centre is famous for its authentic Wenzhou-style snacks, like ‘gao tou’ – a rice cake wrap stuffed with veggies, dried tofu, fried dough stick, braised pork and a scoop of meat gravy. Tofu pudding can be served as a dessert or a savoury dish with soy and a hint of garlic. The husband-and-wife team provides friendly service and they make everything from scratch every morning to ensure maximum freshness.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. The owner-chef, who used to work in a famous restaurant, uses traditional techniques to make noodle soups and assorted toppings, each boasting a substantially different taste profile. Noodles dressed in minced pork sauce with sesame paste, red chilli oil and Sichuan pepper are a regional classic exuding intoxicating aromas. Those who prefer less heat opt for dumplings in seafood soup. All noodles come in three portion sizes to suit a range of appetites. Alfresco seating only.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. This tiny, nondescript noodle shop appeals to locals with meticulously made noodles and dumplings at bargain prices. The wheat noodles are hand-pulled, cut to order and boast a remarkably springy texture. Try the soy-marinated pork and egg variety garnished with dried shrimps, diced potato, calabash and the must-try house-made salted mustard greens that hit the spot with salty umami. The handmade dumplings are equally tasty.

Bib Gourmand • Huaiyang. This senior member of the Shanghai dining scene is as busy as ever, especially after a facelift in 2017 that added a private room. The dining room is decorated with paintings and wood carvings, while the floor-to-ceiling window on the second floor frames the gorgeous city views. As always, it serves authentic Huai Yang food, impeccably made and reasonably priced. Must-tries include shredded tofu in soup and braised pork balls.

Bib Gourmand • Huaiyang. This grand place with imposing architecture is perched on the shore of Slender West Lake, its traditional Chinese motifs evoking poetic elegance. Intricate knife skills are evident in the Yangzhou classic of shredded dried tofu dressed in sesame oil and sauces. Braised silver carp head is another crowd-pleaser (pre-order at least a day in advance). Live pipa and Chinese zither performances offer culture enthusiasts an immersive experience.

Bib Gourmand • Huaiyang. Most of the kitchen team hails from Yangzhou, so it is no surprise that the elegantly appointed restaurant specialises in Yangzhou cuisine. Handmade dim sum is the must-try. Served piping hot, the soup dumpling with crabmeat and crab roe filling is wrapped in wafer-thin dough and meticulously pleated by hand. Enjoy the soup with a straw before biting into the plump dumpling. Other traditional Yangzhou dishes are also worth checking out. Bookings recommended.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. Tucked away in a longstanding residential area, this noodle shop has a loyal following. The noodles are either served in spicy or white broth, or tossed in various seasoning pastes. For noodle soup, try their signature eight-treasure white broth made with chicken, bamboo shoots and dried seafood including shrimps, squids and oysters. Or have your bouncy noodles tossed in the famous mala chilli pork sauce for heady, addictive aromas.

Bib Gourmand • Cantonese. Yao Ji has been a household name in Panyu District for over 40 years. On the menu, classic Cantonese flavours work their magic in painstaking recipes that are a rarity these days. The sweet, steamed lotus root puree is sticky and chewy and well complemented by briny dried shrimps and aromatic scallion. Oyster sauce chicken is nicely browned and boasts an inimitable umami flavour thanks to scallion and ginger.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. This tiny shop in an alley has been around for decades. Without bells and whistles, it has earned a loyal following with its rustic traditional Fuzhou sweets. The concise menu stars a lineup of all-time favourites. Simmered in a claypot for nine hours, the peanut soup is a creamy and nutty delight. Taro paste pleasantly surprises with small chunks of starchy taro which adds to the texture. The lotus root cake and sweet sticky rice are also worth a try.

Bib Gourmand • Zhejiang. Nestled in a scenic spot, famous for its winding creeks, this room in a quaint mansion amid longjing tea farms juggles rustic chic and refined elegance. On the menu, country-style Jiangzhe specialities take pride of place. Freshwater fish and shellfish rub shoulders with comforting Hangzhou classics. Fried river shrimps in Sichuan pepper and chilli sauce pack bold, numbing flavour. Fried mochi coated in sugar and ground peanuts is golden and chewy.

Bib Gourmand • Fujian. This restaurant founded in the 1960s may look a bit dated, but the incredible smell of beef never fails to lure us in. Despite strong local competition, Yi Qiang stands out with their longstanding Fuzhou recipes, such as beef rib soup, beef offal and ground beef meatballs, served with noodles and buns. Their beef rib soup is mildly perfumed with Chinese herbs, emphasising the robust, beefy flavour. Pair with a basket of xiao long bao.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. For over 40 years, this family business has focused on making the best hand-rolled noodles. By adding lye to the dough and kneading it repeatedly, the noodles develop an exceptionally bouncy texture. Served either in a soy-based broth or tossed in a spiced marinade with meaty umami, these delectable strands have made the shop well known. Choose from among 10+ toppings, including fried pork chop, rib tips and marinated chicken intestine bundle.

Bib Gourmand • Fujian. This restaurant, which doubles as an art gallery, is adorned in the owner’s art collection. In the kitchen, the young chef from Putian adds a new twist to Fujian fare. Large mactra clams, blanched in boiling chicken stock for 10 seconds by the table, impress with deep umami, perfect cooking and crisp texture. Traditional sliced conch in wine lees sauce is given a new spin, with the red vinasse exuding a unique fragrance.

Bib Gourmand • Sichuan. As the name suggests, the kitchen is helmed by chefs hailing from the Sichuanese city of Yibin, from whence most of the ingredients are shipped, before they are cooked in authentic Yibin style. The menu is extensive and the portions generous. Try Lizhuang boiled pork, and Yibin noodles with bean sprouts dressed in a nutty, spicy sauce. Reservations are not accepted, so expect to queue at mealtimes, often for over an hour.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. Despite a very low-key ambiance, this shop in a residential neighbourhood has built a loyal following courtesy of its mini wontons called bian rou, made fresh daily in-house. Bouncy pork filling is enrobed in a translucent, wafer-thin wrapper made with starch and ground pork, served in umami-laden pork bone broth. On top of that, order blanched noodles tossed in sauces, soy-marinated egg, or blanched pork with tendon attached that boasts springy texture.

Bib Gourmand • Congee. After moving along the street to a corner unit, this place now has an updated room equipped with a live fish tank of seafood from the Chaoshan area, such as lobsters and tuatua clams – ask the owner about the catch of the day. Their signature remains Chaoshan-style fish congee featuring various marine fish and dried seafood in a flavoursome pork bone broth. The rice noodles from Tongkeng town are another speciality. The snacks are worth ordering too.

Bib Gourmand • Ningbo. A spin-off from Yong Fu, this restaurant serves only seafood caught in the East China Sea the same day, such as Miiuy croaker and hairtail, but at a lower price point. The must-try signature '18 chops' – raw crabs marinated in spiced soy and wine – is only available from November to April. Other Ningbo favourites like Shaoxing wine chicken and grilled cabbage are also well executed. Reservations aren’t taken so arrive early to beat the crowd.

Bib Gourmand • Sichuan. You can't miss this shop – just look for the red lanterns, perforated wood windows… and the queue. Since 1985, it's been serving home-style Sichuanese dishes made the traditional way: stir-frying, steaming and shuizhu. The braised eel with eggplant has contrasting textures and the savvy use of Chinese patchouli elevates it to the next level. For non-spicy food lovers, the sticky rice pork ribs and meatball soup are both great choices.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. Trained in Huaiyang cuisine, the owner applies the same level of care to preparing his noodles. Suzhou-style noodles work magic with Nanjing-style marinated meats in his signature beef brisket and tendon noodle soup – incredibly tender meat in an umami-laden broth made fresh daily from beef bone. Alternatively, you can ask for the "dry" version tossed in sauces. The sweet and sour pork ribs are another must-try, delivering depth and sweetness.

Bib Gourmand • Huaiyang. Unlike typical Yangzhou cuisine that is refined and delicate, Yu Cheng specialises in rustic and comforting farm-style fare. The meats cured in-house, including air-dried goose, salted duck, and sausages, are particular crowd pleasers – order a platter to sample a variety of items. Other specialities include cured pork face, braised pork with salted fish, and salted pork ribs with winter melon in claypot, which impart simple but warming flavours.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. The owner hails from Zhoushan, famous for its seafood. His mother taught him how to make noodles and he started this shop over 10 years ago to bring authentic Zhoushan noodles to Shanghai. Noodle soup is typically paired with fish shipped from his hometown, such as yellow croaker braised in bean sauce or the premium deboned beltfish, available only in October and November. The delicious yellow croaker spring rolls are hugely popular.

Bib Gourmand • Cantonese. Open until 2am, this restaurant specialising in regional dishes from the Cantonese city of Zhanjiang is a popular choice for a late-night supper. Free-range chicken shipped from the city is steamed or deep-fried for juicy flesh and intense flavour. The pan-fried white pomfret packs an umami punch and brings briny sweetness. Chinese mugwort cake is a rustic snack stuffed with a savoury or sweet filling then steamed. Pre-order dishes to avoid disappointment.

Bib Gourmand • Huaiyang. With signage inscribed by the younger brother of Puyi, the last emperor of the Qing Dynasty, circa 1921, this state-owned restaurant is a real treasure. Dark wood is a prominent decorative feature, while red tablecloths lend it a rustic, classic vibe. Since 1997, diners have been coming to the current location to enjoy its authentic, no-frills Huaiyang cooking, with dishes like scorched eel with garlic and soy. Only private rooms can be booked ahead.

Bib Gourmand • Zhejiang. Local gourmets have been flocking here since 2006, drawn by outstanding Wenzhou-style seafood dishes– typically blanched, steamed or braised. The naturally sweet and umami flavours of over 30 kinds of local seafood take centre stage; most ingredients are sourced directly from local fishermen to ensure freshness. Try the braised dried cuttlefish with taro that tastes creamy and briny-sweet, while homemade tofu pudding is the perfect way to end a meal.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. The brand, dating back to 1876, was reopened on the same spot in 2019 by a descendant of the founder. The traditional Chinese façade is chic and striking; the room decorated with lanterns boasts canal views. The custom-made noodles work well with broth jazzed up by dried scallops. In summer, the shrimp-trio noodles are the must-try – springy shrimps with shrimp roe and tomalley make for an umami extravaganza. In winter, try the crab roe version.

Bib Gourmand • Seafood. For over 10 years, this restaurant has been serving live seafood alongside a range of Fuzhou dishes. Only private rooms are available and there is no paper menu – diners are asked to pick their own seafood from the live fish tank. What sets it apart from the competition is its obsession with rare seafood and exotic ingredients. Try sautéed clam worms with flowering chives that taste meaty and smoky, or buttery skate liver in lotus leaf buns.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. This noodle shop has been around for more than 40 years. What it lacks in space and grandeur, it makes up for in good food. Besides the secret sha cha broth bursting with a deep peanut flavour, diners also appreciate the dazzling and almost infinite array of toppings – pork intestine, pork bladder, dried tofu, fish balls, duck blood curd, pork liver, lean pork... Pair the noodles with roast pork sticky rice dumpling for a truly filling meal.

Bib Gourmand • Zhejiang. A sign that says "stinky" or "rotten" might not usually sound appetising, but Yue Ji prides itself on the six features of Shaoxing cooking: soy sauce, distillers' grains, rottenness, stench, wine and pickles! Try dishes marinated with distillers' grains sauce, such as duck gizzard or pork tongue and belly. No meal here is complete without the notorious deep-fried stinky tofu and steamed minced pork patty with rotten millefeuille tofu skin. Pre-ordering recommended.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles, Shanghainese. This noodle shop with a subtle sign may not draw much attention from the outside, but the interior is a different world, in which neon signs and graffiti murals subvert expectations. House-made plain or spinach noodles are topped with crabmeat and crab roe or the strictly seasonal "shrimp trio" (shrimps, tomalley and roe), and both impress with utmost freshness. Side dishes such as seaweed-crusted yellow croaker and sautéed chicken gizzard are also a treat.

Bib Gourmand • Cantonese. The dimly lit space is dotted with red lanterns and bamboo screens; the sizzling sounds and intoxicating smells from the semi-open kitchen prime diners for a feast that engages all senses. The menu features around 30 dishes served in claypots, complemented by an array of home-made sauces – try the rice paddy eel variety with firm, flavoursome meat. The double-boiled soups and home-made ginger juice milk curd ice cream are also worth trying.

Bib Gourmand • Sichuan. Abutting the Jinsha archaeological site, this family-run joint opened its doors in 2006. After a recent renovation, the room feels modern and cosy. It’s famous for tasty beef dishes at sensible price points – the beef is steamed, grilled, double-boiled, stewed and sautéed with Sichuanese condiments that appeal to the local palate. The steamed beef coated in spiced rice flour and slow-cooked tomato oxtail soup impress courtesy of big, bold flavours.

Bib Gourmand • Fujian. Founded in 1999 under a different name, it has ever been popular with local ginger duck fans. On the right side of the entrance, row upon row of claypots make quite a spectacle. Muscovy duck is slow-cooked in rice wine with ginger and other herbs for two hours to build irresistible aromas. The duck is tender and falls off the bone and the broth is gingery, but not spicy. The soft, chewy pork blood sticky rice cake is also recommended.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. A popular breakfast spot among locals, this simple joint is open every day until noon. The menu covers all Taizhou’s breakfast classics – dim sum, noodles and soups. Ground pork rice is a firm favourite: piping hot sticky rice in broth is topped with a heap of sautéed ground pork. Pancake roll stuffed with shredded omelette, pork and veggies can be pan-fried and crisped up. Mochi-filled egg omelette boasts a soft, stretchy texture.

Bib Gourmand • Fujian. Zhen Zhen runs the whole place alone: she's the owner, server and chef. She's picky about seafood, having it delivered a few times daily to ensure freshness. The well-made dishes at bargain prices have secured a loyal fan base. The menu comprises 20 items, mostly small plates, such as braised pork rice, and shrimp ball soup. Her oyster omelette is packed with plump oysters and garlic sprouts.

Bib Gourmand • Dim Sum. For almost 40 years, this small halal shop has won the hearts of locals with its well-made beef dishes. Potstickers are the must-try, seducing with crisp charred bottom, plump juicy beef filling and tempting scallion aromas. Beef wontons are little bombs bursting with meaty umami in a translucent velvety skin, served in a peppery beef broth. Other braised beef cuts and offal are also flavoursome, tender, and just the ticket with all kinds of noodles.

Bib Gourmand • Seafood. Locals can’t get enough of the authentic, super fresh seafood here that is geared towards the local palate. Spanning the ground floor of two buildings, the main dining room is colossal and there are 60+ private rooms of all sizes. Pick your favourite critter from the tank and tell the wait staff how you want it cooked. Specialities include steamed mud crab with sweet potato brimming with crab roe and river eel braised in yellow wine that boasts fine texture.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. For over 20 years, this neighbourhood shop run by a husband-and-wife team has won the hearts of many with its Nanjing-style duck offal glass noodle soup. Toppings include blood curd, intestine and stuffed tofu puffs. The deluxe version also comes with duck heart and gizzard. The clear duck broth is simmered for hours to develop deep umami. It is even better when the broth is soaked up with duck fat Shaobing flatbread or paired with puffed rice crackers to add some crunch.

Bib Gourmand • Vegetarian. This tiny shop at the foot of Lingyin Temple has a lovely garden and rustic-style decor. The menu features a variety of vegetarian noodles and dumplings, including bright green spinach noodles in a mushroom broth and topped with assorted vegetables. Vegetarian potstickers come with crispy skirts; sesame seeds lend the juicy filling a nuttiness that works perfectly with the umami of mushrooms. For dessert, there is peach resin and honey locust sweet soup.

Bib Gourmand • Huaiyang. Tucked inside a converted courtyard house, this tiny gem with seven tables has just a small sign on its door. Chef Zhong from Yangzhou is also your waiter and host. He opened this restaurant in 2020 to showcase his hometown’s delicacies. Try the wine lees-marinated cold appetiser platter with green soybeans, shrimps, duck tongues and abalone – addictively aromatic and refreshing. Sautéed shredded swamp eel boasts a bouncy, velvety texture.

Bib Gourmand • Fujian. This local culinary landmark is famous for braised duck, which is cooked in dozens of claypots that exude heady aromas by the entrance. The most popular item is ginger duck in rice wine. Consider paying extra for the gizzards before they run out. If you don’t fancy duck, you can choose free-range chicken or Silkie chicken instead. Also try Minnan home-style dishes like stir-fried duck blood curd with chives, garlic and bell pepper.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. The room isn’t any different from your typical noodles joint, but its glazed noodles ‘factory’ definitely puts on a great show. Watch the skilful noodle-maker knead the dough with a bamboo pole to develop ultra-bouncy texture. House-made duck egg noodles can be paired with shrimp wontons, pork wontons, braised beef brisket, pork trotters. Also try those tossed in lard and shrimp roe.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. Surrounded by furniture shops, this noodle place has a retro feel to it. Wooden tables and bamboo chairs add to the overall rustic flair. The noodles are made fresh in-house, which explains their incredibly silky, bouncy texture. Zha jiang mian is the must-try here: blanched noodles are topped with a soybean-based ground pork sauce that is robust, savoury and mildly spicy. If you enjoy their noodles, you can buy some raw to take home.

Bib Gourmand • Cantonese. A hawker-stall-turned-restaurant now with two branches – this casual, bustling three-storey joint is prized for its authentic Cantonese food. The juicy, flavoursome roast goose has been a big hit for the past 20 years. Other specialities include salted pork trotters, Zhu Ji steamed chicken, and blackened barbecued pork. Pastured pork soup with mung bean-stuffed lotus root tastes delicious and delivers interesting textures.

Bib Gourmand • Sichuan. Despite its hard-to-find entrance, this flagship of the chain has earned solid fandom among locals with its no-frills, home-style Sichuanese cooking that is frugally priced. Instead of an eye-watering kick, expect a mild heat that caters to a broader palate. Specialities from the Leshan area, like tofu pudding and marinated fatty pork intestine, are best sellers. The latter is slow cooked in spiced soy before being sautéed with garlic and celtuce.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. For over 40 years, this noodle shop has prided itself on its lor mee, or Fujian-style noodles in thick starchy gravy. In his 70s, the owner still helms the kitchen himself and cooks each order of lor mee in individual portions. You may have to wait for your order, but you won’t be disappointed. For toppings, choose from beef, pork liver, oysters or shrimp. Peanuts and garlic make the gravy nutty and aromatic. Made to order vinegar pork and fish roll are also worth trying.

Bib Gourmand • Cantonese. Though Zijin occupies two adjoining ground-floor units, there is barely an empty seat throughout the day. For over 10 years, locals have been fans of the impeccable barbecue meats, which are displayed in all their glory at the front of the shop. The signature goose braised in premium soy boasts velvety meat and deep flavours. Double-boiled soups, stir-fries and claypot dishes are also popular. Come early, as certain items tend to run out.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine, Classic Cuisine. A quintessentially modern Istrian konoba (tavern), this venue is both rustic and cosy. Under a large traditional wooden ceiling, a large fireplace stands out, also used for preparing some dishes, such as the excellent veal slow-cooked under the typical bell covered with embers. The menu reflects the authentic flavours of Istria: dishes that are generous in portion size and taste, simple, fragrant and predominantly meat-based. Among the desserts, Čokooliva deserves a mention: served in a Martini cocktail glass, a creamy vanilla ice cream is topped with a drizzle of dark chocolate enriched with crumbled peanuts, while a delicate drizzle of homemade extra virgin olive oil is revealed at the bottom.

Bib Gourmand • Farm to table, Contemporary. In the inner courtyard of a building in the town centre is this simply styled bistro, frequented by a young and varied clientele, which is also reflected in the background music with a "cool" feel. The culinary offerings are not extensive (as is the wine list, offset, however, by a small selection of cocktails), and are based on market ingredients and local produce. Both meat and fish dishes on the menu are Mediterranean-inspired, designed to enhance taste and a certain indulgence.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Since its opening several years ago, this restaurant has helped revitalize the village of Legrad in northern Croatia. Located next to the church and overlooking the main square, it features a spacious outdoor area that comes alive on summer evenings. The simple yet elegant and modern interior perfectly reflects the spirit of the cuisine: Croatian and Central European dishes made with local ingredients, authentic and clean flavors, a good dose of creativity and technique, all at very reasonable prices. Be sure to try the Royal Blade, the house signature: a sumptuous grilled selection of noble cuts of local meat – chicken, beef, pork, and veal – served with potatoes, roasted peaches, and a tomato and chili sauce. The adjoining rooms are highly appreciated by cyclists: Legrad is, in fact, the starting and finishing point of one of Croatia’s most popular and renowned cycling routes.

Bib Gourmand • Japanese Contemporary, Japanese. Not centrally located, but still within walking distance (about 3 km), this modern restaurant has two settings: a minimalist veranda and an indoor dining room enhanced by decorative touches inspired by the Orient. The proposal is entirely dedicated to Japanese cuisine, revisited with some contemporary touches. The lengthy menu ranges from uramaki, nigiri, sashimi, hosomaki, tataki, dim sum, signature rolls, and more.To make it easier to choose, we recommend Sushi Sets, thematic assortments that allow you to sample different specialities. The pleasant outdoor area is ideal for an evening cocktail after a meal. Last but not least: the prices are really attractive.

Bib Gourmand • Mediterranean Cuisine, Regional Cuisine. Located in a quiet alley near Split's central square, the restaurant has a fantastic location: central yet peaceful. Externally it may go unnoticed, but the interior features elegant details, and the courtyard has a large, tranquil outdoor patio. The restaurant offers a wide à la carte selection, capable of satisfying all tastes. The small, open kitchen is run by a talented chef whose offerings are fresh and thoughtful, with dishes that combine regional and modern influences. The presentation is pleasing, the portions are generous, and the value for money is attractive. The service, always friendly and attentive, makes guests feel welcome and cared for.

Bib Gourmand • Regional Cuisine, Meats and Grills. Situated near Buje, Konoba Malo Selo is an authentic Istrian tavern where genuine flavors of local tradition come alive. The interiors reinforce this authenticity: stone walls, rustic furnishings, and a commanding fireplace create a warm, inviting atmosphere. During the meal, the aromas of the grill, truffle, and mushrooms permeate the room enhancing the pleasure of dining. Don’t miss the house-made charcuterie, fuži with boscarino sauce, and excellent grilled meats.

Bib Gourmand (Green Star) • Country cooking, Regional Cuisine. This traditional inn situated in the small village of Pupnat, about 10km from Korčula, is run by a friendly and welcoming family. The menu features charcuterie produced by the family, goat’s cheese matured on site, home-grown vegetables and local wine and olive oil. One of the most delicious dishes is the home-made ravioli with goat’s cheese and sage sauce. The covered terrace is particularly attractive with its solid wood tables and lighting provided by lanterns.

Bib Gourmand • Seafood, Croatian. Directly overlooking the small harbour of one of Kvarner's most romantic villages, from its small terrace this venue enjoys a splendid view: small boats, beach and sea compose a relaxing and evocative picture. As is natural, the cuisine is predominantly seafood, simple and tasty. What could be better than to start with a carpaccio of the catch of the day and then follow it up with scampi alla busara, a preparation that apparently originated in these very areas? Prices are generally fair, except, understandably, for the finest shellfish.

Bib Gourmand • Country cooking. A beautiful, cosy, well-run country tavern that has stood out for its excellent value for money for many years. The menu focuses on earthy cuisine, where meat is the absolute protagonist: straightforward, flavourful and hearty dishes, including the suckling pig, served in generous portions. Despite fair prices, quality remains high and uncompromising. In warm weather you can eat outdoors in a lovely outdoor seating area, but reservations are recommended. A perfect stop for those seeking authenticity and taste.

Bib Gourmand • Balkan, Meats and Grills. Despite the name, the Taj Mahal's cuisine pays homage to Bosnia and Balkan traditions. In the heart of Dubrovnik's Old Town, this restaurant is a landmark for those seeking authentic, rich and tantalizing flavours served in a convivial and unpretentious atmosphere. The extensive and varied menu simply tells the story of Bosnian culinary tradition: a couple of pages are devoted to traditional dishes, alongside tasty grilled meats (from their own butcher shop), flavourful vegetables, and specialities prepared according to family recipes. Not to be missed is the homemade plum baklava made by the owner's mother – a real treat. The friendly and attentive service is always ready to advise and guide you in your choice, helping you navigate your way through the many proposals. In addition to wines, there is also a selection of simple but well-executed cocktails, ideal to accompany the meal. The restaurant is very popular (reservations are recommended), but for those looking for a more modern and spacious location, there is also the Taj Mahal inside Hotel Lero, a couple of kilometres north of the old town.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. The restaurant stands on Vrhovec hill, a quiet residential area a short distance from the center. More akin to a private home than a conventional restaurant, it evokes an intimate, welcoming atmosphere, run with warmth by the Miletić family. They offer generous traditional recipes of land and sea, hearty in flavor and portion size. Lovers of offal will appreciate a dedicated section featuring dishes inspired by local recipes. Sharing is the norm here, contributing to a convivial experience. The wine list, focused on Croatian and neighboring regional labels, is presented and narrated directly by the dining room staff. At the entrance, beyond a meat-aging refrigerator, stands a small but carefully curated display of fresh fish of the day.

Bib Gourmand • Regional Cuisine, Classic Cuisine. Just a few minutes' drive from the capital, nestled in beautiful countryside, this bucolic restaurant sits atop a hill in a quiet and scenic location. Also featuring cosy rooms and a modern swimming pool, it offers cuisine that celebrates local flavours and iconic dishes: from fragrant Zagorska soup made with mushrooms and bacon to ricotta strudel and roast veal with potatoes. Among desserts, homemade ice creams are a constant presence. The wine list is entirely dedicated to the family's production, with labels also available by the glass.

Bib Gourmand • Contemporary. This spot has all the makings of a favorite restaurant! The modern dining concept is reflected in the relaxed atmosphere and the trendy, urban interior complete with open kitchen and bar, as well as on the menu. The fantastic selection features mouthwatering options such as dry-aged beef and plenty of vegetarian dishes. The kitchen team works closely with local suppliers including KRO Bakery in Libeň, which provides excellent sourdough bread. In addition to a well-curated wine list, there is a wonderful range of cocktails – with or without alcohol. Delightful courtyard terrace.

Bib Gourmand • Farm to table, Contemporary. A cool location right in the centre. The Bistro, accommodated in a centuries-old building, is accessible via the impressive glass-roofed atrium courtyard, which boasts an inviting terrace. The tables laid out inside, where a relaxed atmosphere reigns, are also appealing. The space, done out in a trendy, pared-back decor, has a small bar and open kitchen, as well as eye-catching vaulted ceilings and art. The menu is small but enticing, and includes, for instance, steak or Italian influences. It is also possible to drop in just for a cocktail or glass of wine.

Bib Gourmand • Regional Cuisine. Delicious and perfectly presented traditional Czech cuisine! With passion and culinary expertise, the kitchen team cooks up regional classics such as braised duck leg, rabbit and trout. A special mention goes to the Carlsbad dumplings – really delicious, fluffy bread dumplings! The moderately priced lunch special is very popular. The decor is chic and modern, and the service is friendly and professional. The restaurant is housed in the venerable Hotel Aplaus, very close to the market square, and boasts gorgeous guestrooms. Fun fact about the town: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the castle is the birthplace of composer Bedřich Smetana.

Bib Gourmand • Italian, Czech. This somewhat labyrinthine restaurant has a pleasant, modern bistro atmosphere and serves both Czech and Italian cuisine. Quality ingredients and a lot of energy go into the flavourful dishes. The chef has a particular penchant for stews and pasta. Tip: One of the tables is located right in front of the kitchen and promises interesting glimpses of the team in action.

Bib Gourmand (Green Star) • Regional Cuisine, Traditional Cuisine. This converted farmhouse has been given a modern facelift that has kept its charm intact. In a spacious, long room, tables are set out beneath a striking groin-vaulted ceiling; the kitchen, service counter and microbrewery have an open design. The copper brewery kettles are, of course, the most eye-catching feature, and it is definitely worth trying the beer. It is also interesting to see the chefs at work, as they cook up traditional, seasonal and regional dishes using top-notch ingredients. There is also a small "shop corner", which sells jams, preserves etc. Overnight guests can look forward to nicely kept guestrooms and a small wellness area. On a practical note, there are charging stations for electric vehicles.

Bib Gourmand • International, Traditional Cuisine. This restaurant housed in the long-standing hotel Nautilus, right in the historical city centre, exudes a sophisticated bistro atmosphere that blends the charm of bygone eras with a touch of glamour. In summer, the terrace giving onto Žižkov Square is a real draw. Go à la carte menu or opt for a four- or six-course tasting menu; a four-course vegetarian variant is also available. There is an additional, wallet-friendly lunch menu. The chef's specialities include "Sturgeon & Umami", traditional kulajda mushroom soup and fillet steak Rossini. Tip: Be sure to visit the city's labyrinth of alleys and passages (both above and below ground) and its historical buildings.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. This on-trend, modern bistro concept – including a chef's table and open kitchen complete with Jopser grill – lies within the historical walls of a military bakery with lofty vaulted ceilings. The flavoursome cuisine is creative and seasonal, with an appealing à la carte menu, plus an extra dish at lunchtime. It's not easy to choose between dishes such as "Grilled oyster mushroom, cream cheese, bread chips", "Chickpea tofu, hoisin, yuzu, chard" and "Venison, rosehip, brussels sprout, semolina". Tip: The dishes also lend themselves to sharing, so you can try different things. Don't miss out on the terrific sourdough bread and sweet pastries. Café bar and hostel on the premises, too; public car park 100m away.

Bib Gourmand • Regional Cuisine, Contemporary. The interior design of this restaurant is sleek and modern, in keeping with the futuristic look of the hotel that houses it on its first floor. Diners sit in an airy, high-ceilinged room lit by chic designer pendant lamps – large floor-to-ceiling windows afford magnificent views of the surrounding countryside. Choose from an appealing selection of regional and international classics, or opt for the tasting menu. Full of flavour and depth, the dishes are testament to the skill of the kitchen team.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. As you enter, you leave the city outside the door. This highly appealing restaurant is located in a residential neighbourhood overlooking the surrounding area – fittingly, the name means "on the hill". Inside, the charming atmosphere is enhanced by a personal touch. The friendly service plays a part in this, as does the original wallpaper featuring pictures from the family photo album. The kitchen serves up a good selection of regional and classic dishes with punch, flavour and aroma. If you're having trouble deciding, start with the Chef's Starter Selection. And be sure to leave room for dessert – the "dumplings" are devilishly good.

Bib Gourmand • Seasonal Cuisine, Modern Cuisine. The restaurant is located in the modern Hotel Perk – the name of which is a reference to the town of Šumperk. The trendy urban interior is inviting. Make a beeline for one of the tables to the rear or, for a livelier experience, those directly opposite the open kitchen offer views of the chefs at work. The dishes are seasonal and are prepared with modern creativity and precision. Tip: Book an overnight stay in one of the hotel's comfortable modern guestrooms.

Bib Gourmand • Czech, Contemporary. The 10min tram ride (line 6) from the city centre is definitely worth it! Contemporary Czech cuisine bursting with flavour and aroma goes at very wallet-friendly prices here. Done out in an industrial style, the place has a trendy and minimalist feel – the open kitchen fits perfectly into the picture. The service runs like clockwork, courtesy of a friendly and professional team. At lunchtime, the choice on the menu is smaller than in the evening.

Bib Gourmand • Czech. This place is popular, and with good reason. The small menu is packed with regional classics – the hearty Czech dishes, including braised hare leg, pork cheeks and duck gizzards, as well as delicious desserts such as sweet yeast dumplings, are a real treat. And then there is the wonderful bread and fine pastries from the adjoining bakery! The select ingredients are not only beautifully prepared in terms of flavour and craftsmanship, but you also get a sense of the heart and soul that goes into the dishes. The decor is simple, with a slightly rustic feel. In the space at the front, the kitchen is visible through a window, and from your table in the area to the rear, you can see into the open bakery. The restaurant is just a few minutes from the centre, and only the street separates it from the Vltava River.

Bib Gourmand • Czech, Modern Cuisine. Located in a pleasant residential neighbourhood not far from the zoo, this is an inviting restaurant in which an abundance of rustic wood finishings and decorative details such as numerous old photographs, striking pendant lamps and ceiling fans create a charming atmosphere. The food is a modern take on traditional Czech cuisine, eschewing unnecessary frills. Fresh, high-quality ingredients are prepared with precision to create delicious dishes such as carp fries with dill mayonnaise and coleslaw, stuffed goose stomachs and hearts with paprika and sour cream, or pulled goose meat with sauerkraut and potato pancakes. The reasonable prices are also something to smile about. In summer, the terrace with its mature trees is delightful! Friendly and attentive service. The restaurant STŮL in the same building operates under the same management.

Bib Gourmand • International, Traditional Cuisine. The restaurant is a little way out of the city centre, but the journey south of Brno is worth it. They serve international cuisine with traditional, French, Mediterranean and Far Eastern influences. Chef Michal Černý and his team prepare both à la carte dishes and a seven-course tasting menu. Fresh ingredients go into flavoursome dishes such as "Spicy Thai soup, shrimp, oyster fungus" or "Mushroom risotto, Pecorino mousse, rocket salad" and "Confit of veal cheek, dill velouté, Carlsbad dumplings". When it comes to wine, the spotlight is on the Czech region of Moravia; the additional rum menu is also of interest. Friendly and attentive service is provided by a dedicated front-of-house team in the attractive contemporary interior. In summer diners are seated comfortably on the covered terrace. The adjoining room for special occasions is also pleasant.

Bib Gourmand • Czech, Contemporary. This pub-style place is loud and lively. Both the ambience and cuisine present as an unpretentious, modern interpretation of a traditional inn. Seated on a long bench at small wooden tables, diners tuck into this contemporary take on Czech cuisine and it is quite simply a delightful experience. Dishes such as potato dumplings filled with braised wild boar, red cabbage and bacon sauce are packed with flavour and full of soul – you can tell this is a team that knows what it is doing. The food pairs well with a glass of wine or a good beer.

Bib Gourmand • Seasonal Cuisine, International. This attractive and immaculately kept restaurant is accessed via an inner courtyard. The bright winter garden is a particularly pleasant spot, and has a fireplace for cooler days. In spring and summer, the terrace on the balcony – with a view of the city park and spa gardens – is the place to be. The menu features seasonal and traditional dishes with contemporary, snazzy and on-point presentations. The experienced and friendly service is the icing on the cake.

Bib Gourmand • Czech, Contemporary. It's no wonder this delightful restaurant in the city centre is a favorite among locals. The vibe is rustic and vibrant, the staff are exceptionally friendly and attentive, and the food is top-notch. Using select ingredients, the kitchen team delivers a contemporary take on Czech cuisine that is down-to-earth and packed with flavour. Signature items such as charred cabbage and short ribs are not to be missed. There is also a solid wine selection. In summer, the lovely covered terrace out front beckons.

Bib Gourmand • Regional Cuisine, Seasonal Cuisine. The location here is truly amazing, within the grounds of Třeboň’s wonderfully restored castle, which you should definitely explore before or after your meal (there are shops, cafés etc). Or soak up the peace and quiet at the lake as you take in the view. The restaurant specialises in fish – try the carp chips (kapří hranolky) with mushroom and dill sauce, for which they are famous. Some of the fish on the menu come from the lake. The service is attentive and friendly. In winter you can sit in the elegant ‘Šupinka’, in summer the somewhat simpler ‘Šupina’ opposite is open - this is where the larger of the two terraces is located. Fish lovers will certainly get their fill here – but there is also lamb or game. They also offer apartmens to stay overnight.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. A stone’s throw from Peblinge Sø Lake sits this unfussy, proudly run neighbourhood restaurant, whose name, ‘anarchy’, is a nod to its ethos. The regularly evolving menu of sharing plates embraces produce, techniques and seasonings from around the world, taking good quality ingredients and crafting them into bold, rustic dishes that burst with flavour. This mindset extends to the drinks too, with both the wines and the spirits originating from far-flung destinations and providing plenty of interest. Prices are kept reasonable which may, in part, help to explain the lively atmosphere.

Bib Gourmand (Green Star) • Vegan. Not far from Nordhavn lies this vegan bistro that comes with simple décor and a lively atmosphere. Environmental awareness is a big theme, with a focus on local and seasonal produce, some of it foraged locally or sourced from their own mushroom farm. The good value tasting menu shows off a great range of techniques, with the well-balanced dishes ranging from roasted cauliflower glazed with sticky hoisin sauce to their signature fried blue oyster mushrooms with tamarind ketchup. The serving team are both charming and knowledgeable, and the homemade sparkling kombucha comes highly recommended.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. In a cobbled city centre square stands this attractive townhouse that's now in the hands of Danish celebrity chef, Bo Bech. His simply decorated contemporary bistro offers reasonable pricing and plenty of flexibility on an extensive à la carte menu. There's strong cooking and great produce across the board, but those with a sweet tooth should keep their eye out for the cheesecake with smoked maple syrup. A wine bar in the basement provides ample opportunity to extend your visit.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. A lively cobbled street filled with small shops and restaurants is home to Calma, which stands out amongst the crowd for its great value, flavour-packed cuisine. A local favourite, it comes with a buzzing atmosphere – thanks in part to the open kitchen where you can watch the chefs at work – and a cheerful vibe, courtesy of bright artwork that pops against light blue and white walls. Well-prepared French and Italian dishes include the likes of scallop crudo with blood orange and fennel; pasta al vongole; and pistachio ice cream with olive oil and sea salt.

Bib Gourmand • Italian. With a name that means 'Wine Mania' it's no surprise that this Italian restaurant attracts a crowd of dedicated oenophiles. The wine cellar comes with a table for tasting and there’s an excellent list of several hundred bins, mostly from Burgundy and Owner Damiano Alberti's native Piedmont. In his role as Sommelier, Damiano provides wine service that is helpful, passionate and generous. The place itself is simple and trattoria-like, serving straightforward and satisfying dishes like 'spaghetti alla chitarra con gamberoni' from a weekly-changing menu.

Bib Gourmand • French. Not far from Copenhagen City Hall, in an old building on a bustling street, you’ll find the French sister of Norrlyst and Theo. Set on the mezzanine floor, it has a comforting vintage feel courtesy of wooden bistro furnishings, ceiling fans and white clothed, candlelit tables – and the packed room attests as to both its quality and its value. Carefully prepared, classically based dishes include the likes of soupe à l'oignon with caramelised onion and thyme; seared cod fillet with leek, potato and lobster bisque; and their speciality, beef tartare – all of which can be accompanied by exclusively French wines.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. If you like a bit of privacy, then this is the perfect place for you, as this cosy, intimate former coal cellar comes divided into several smaller rooms. Despite being located in a basement, the room is light and bright, with soft beige tones adding a homely feel – and everything from the glassware to the produce celebrating the island of Bornholm. Lunchtime sees a wide range of reinvented smørrebrød, while dinner offers the choice of two set menus or an à la carte featuring the likes of duck with mustard crème and cornichons. An impressive selection of bordeaux and burgundies accompanies.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Start your evening with a walk along the Slotsholmen Canal, before heading for this lively little restaurant on one of Copenhagen’s oldest streets. Bright paintings and street art style murals of pinecones, seaweed and coral adorn the walls of three dimly lit rooms, and the young team bring plenty of enthusiasm to match the vibe. Unfussy modern dishes display purity, depth of flavour and finesse. Six options are offered each evening – try them all via the ‘Six Favourites’ menu or build your own meal from the à la carte – with options like lamb-yellow beets-bone marrow and sea buckthorn-butternut-honey.

Bib Gourmand • French. The bright lights of this neighbourhood restaurant draw you in – and once you’re in, you won’t want to leave. There’s a busy, buzzy vibe, thanks in part to the closely set tables and friendly team, and guests in every party seem to be having fun. The uncomplicated spirit of the restaurant is reflected in the great value cooking, where bold flavours and generous portions lead the way. While there are a few Danish influences, it’s more about classic French cuisine here, so you’ll find everything from onglet à l'échalotte (beef with marrow, shallots and confit garlic) to duck and smoked sausage cassoulet.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Located in the Christianshavn dockside development is this minimally decorated, no-frills sister restaurant to a|o|c. This approach extends to the low-key service and the laid-back ambiance, while the fresh, flavoursome dishes focus on Danish produce, incorporate some impressive culinary techniques and offer great depth of flavour. The fish of the day is a prime example, showcasing a quality prime ingredient that’s been expertly seasoned and accompanied by a well-judged garnish of caramelised cauliflower purée and foamy mussel sauce.

Bib Gourmand • Danish. If you’ve been wandering Strøget – one of Europe’s longest shopping streets – you’ll do well to stop off at this intimate basement bistro: a cosy neighbourhood spot with a bubbly atmosphere and a laid-back feel. At lunchtime it’s all about smørrebrød and schnapps, aquavit or local beer, while in the evening they serve a set four-course menu. Local ingredients lead the way, with some produced organically or biodynamically, and all freshly picked or caught. You might find ‘fish of the day’ royale with trout roe or duck breast with smoked marrow, cherries and black trumpet mushrooms.

Bib Gourmand • Italian. Down a charming cobbled street in the trendy Nørrebro neighbourhood, where you will find a number of artisan food producers, lies this thoroughly fun restaurant run by a Neapolitan Chef. The short Italian menu is supplemented by blackboard specials and might include ‘cucina povera’ style dishes like 'pasta e piselli' and ‘soffrito napoletano’ – a ragu made using 'the best parts of the pig'. Whatever it is you choose, you can bet it will be colourful, packed with flavour and excellent value.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Concrete pillars and an intentionally ‘unfinished’ feel bring a distinctive vibe at this ever-popular restaurant. The huge numbers they serve whilst maintaining quality and affordability is a testament to both the kitchen and service teams. Sit at wooden tables, at the long metal bar or at communal marble-topped tables to enjoy the extensive selection of unfussy sharing plates, including stand-out pasta dishes and their signature savoury waffles. A selection of natural wines completes the picture.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. The little sister to Michelin-Starred Substans is a simple place set beside the canal in a historic part of the city. Glasses and wine bottles grace the shelves, and exposed brickwork and unfinished floors set a relaxed, unpretentious mood. The food is a perfect match for the surroundings, with the colourful dishes showcasing organic Danish produce and representing great value – you might find cured hake with capers and relish, followed by spice cake with figs, ice cream and caramel sauce. In summer, you can dine alfresco on the pavement terrace.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. The name comes from its location opposite the old offices of The Danish Broadcasting Corporation, but it could easily refer to the lively buzz of the atmosphere too. Its moody décor encompasses black low-hanging lights, a black chandelier made of metal desk lamps and dark panelled walls hung with large slates decorated with chalk-drawn vegetables. Full-flavoured dishes use organic ingredients grown in the restaurant’s nearby fields and feature well thought through combinations such as salmon sashimi with crunchy kohlrabi and hot horseradish sauce or caramelised pork belly with pumpkin and spices.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. It’s not just the streets that bustle with life at this city centre location – behind a glass façade, this contemporary bistro is equally animated thanks to its open kitchen and the buzz of contented diners. The décor might come down on the slightly shabbier side of shabby-chic – and the tables are compact in their arrangement – but that’s all part of Rebel’s charm and the locals love to come here all the same. Go for the tasting menu or choose from the list of small plates, which include the likes of chicken confit with portobello, onion, ramson oil, sauce blanquette and black truffle.

Bib Gourmand • French, Danish. The setting ticks all the boxes: an elegant 19th-century house in a charming cobbled courtyard, located close to Aarhus Harbour yet also within easy rich of the main streets. Danish ingredients are to the fore in good value dishes which lead with a Gallic edge, but there are international influences to be found here too, exemplified by the likes of roasted cod ‘Basquaise' with clam sauce, mild curry, fennel and Granny Smith or duck confit with crispy potatoes, braised endive, Madagascan pepper and bigarade sauce. Wines from their exclusively French and highly impressive cellar accompany.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Close to the imposing UN campus, you’ll find a new red-brick development and, within it, this contemporary bistro with concrete walls, exposed ducting and an industrial feel. The cooking has a direct, no-frills approach, with generously proportioned dishes paying great attention to seasoning and cooking times. You might find onion bread with Iberico ham; kalix roe with sour cream, herbs and potato bread; or an indulgent take on a kro dessert – almond cake with salted caramel and vanilla ice cream. Glass-fronted coolers line the room, giving a clue as to the range offered on the top-notch wine list.

Bib Gourmand • Smørrebrød, Seasonal Cuisine. You’ll often find guests queuing out the door to bag a spot at this sweet, homely neighbourhood restaurant. At lunchtime, they’re here for the speciality smørrebrød with homemade rye and sourdough bases which, while still respecting tradition, adopt a modern edge. In the evening, it’s all about the multi-course tasting menu, with the likes of Danish squid with salted lemon, black currant leaf and sourdough or kale with mussels, lovage and sea lettuce on offer. To drink, there's an excellent selection of craft beers, as well as snaps and aquavit that have been made in-house.

Bib Gourmand • French. While its name may not instantly conjure up images of the Eiffel Tower, Silberbauers Bistro brings a small slice of Paris to Copenhagen’s streets. Whitewashed walls, small tables and menus chalked up on blackboards contribute to the characterful French bistro feel – and the menu follows suit, with its selection of generously proportioned, great value, classic Gallic dishes. Interesting seafood combinations and recipes from Provence take the lead, but you’ll find everything here, from saucisse de Toulouse to crêpes suzette.

Bib Gourmand • Balkan. The owner calls her simply styled but warm neighbourhood space on the 2nd floor of a shopping mall an ‘urban Balkan bistro’. As such, the dishes are made for sharing and the influences come from all over the region, from Eastern Europe down to Greece and Turkey. Everything is homemade, fresh tasting and satisfying; do try the signature phyllo pie. Breakfast features homemade pitta and a host of egg dishes.

Bib Gourmand • Japanese Contemporary. This simple and popular restaurant has an open kitchen, a pared-back interior and a laid-back vibe; grab a seat outside overlooking the Jumeirah Fishing Harbour. Their strapline is ‘making complex simple' and the Asian small plates deliver fresh, vibrant flavours with a strong nod to Japan; 3-4 per person is about right. A must try dish is their Chilean seabass with beurre blanc cream, green mint and red chili pepper. Be sure to bring some shades and a hat, as you may have to wait a while to be seated at this fairly busy eatery.

Bib Gourmand • Emirati Cuisine. Part-restaurant, part-museum; dine under a tree in an air-conditioned covered courtyard served by welcoming staff dressed in traditional robes. Bread is freshly cooked within view and live music adds to the ambience. Rustic Emirati dishes are carefully prepared, well-presented and full of flavour. Start off with one of their salads and breads and be sure to try their lamb machboos that is great for sharing. For dessert, luqaimat and sticky date pudding is a great way to end a meal.

Bib Gourmand • Middle Eastern. Named after the owner’s mother, this passionately run ‘home’ offers a warm welcome and delicious, home-style Levantine dishes cooked with love. The extensive selection of dishes blends old with new; some are crafted with generational recipes, while others are modern homages to classic Levantine flavours, such as Maryam fukhara, kibbe meatball cooked with pomegranate molasses in a claypot. Sit in the cool, tranquil dining room or out on the glass-enclosed lakeside terrace. The lunch ‘dish of the day & soup’ is a steal – and dessert, the kunafa kheshne in particular, is a must.

Bib Gourmand • Persian. An outpost of the original in London, this Persian eatery is located in Dubai’s smaller malls in the residential area of Al Wasl. It’s a large space decorated with oriental mosaics, carpets and portraits, all adding to the atmosphere. Expect plenty of appealingly priced Persian classics in its selection of hot and cold mezze and charcoal-grilled kebabs, all of which are complemented by vegetables, herbs and aromatics. A separate room for families and large gatherings is also available.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Nestled on Dubai Creek Harbour’s promenade is the second branch of this popular restaurant. Overlooking the harbour and the city’s skyline, this bright eatery shares a similar style to the original in Dubai Hills, with bright wood, eye-catching modern elements, a buzzing open kitchen, and a friendly service team. The appealing, well-priced menu offers an array of unfussy, refined comfort food. Particular favourites include a hearty beef cheek with onion gratin and an unmissable homemade lemonade.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. In the heart of Dubai Hills neighbourhood is the outpost of a small restaurant group from St. Petersburg. This contemporary eatery has a light and airy atmosphere, thanks to its sleek blond wood furnishings, cream décor, high ceiling, and buzzy open kitchen. Diners can opt for an appealing breakfast menu, as well as a hearty lunch with a well-priced selection. This place offers a good range of modern, flavourful dishes, where Asian influences and European accents are found in parallel. Their signature dishes are worth trying, especially the oxtail pie with Tallegio. The well-trained staff work smoothly and discreetly to ensure a charming experience.

Bib Gourmand • Japanese Contemporary. Vibrant, modern Japanese dishes – from sushi, uni and yakitori to sharing plates and Wagyu steak – are the order of the day at this funky, buzzing spot located in a smart mall. Keep an eye out for the daily chef’s specials and nice selection of mocktails! Prices are more than reasonable, and service is bright and keen; sit at the counter to watch the chefs at work.

Bib Gourmand • Asian. Named after the mango, Harummanis is a small but oh so welcoming Malay grill restaurant. It pays homage to the chef’s family’s hawker stall in Singapore, first established in 1992. The eatery’s ultra-sweet team complement the homey experience with their enthusiasm as they take you through the extensive menu. The food, mainly Malay, takes influences from numerous neighbouring countries and boasts perfectly spiced and balanced flavours, such as their delicious six-hour cooked rendang made with 20 spices. Be sure to come in a group as dishes are made for sharing.

Bib Gourmand • Asian. What started as a secret supper club, gathering all the key elements of famous hawker markets, is now a relaxed restaurant in the JLT neighbourhood. A friendly and caring team guide you through the subtleties of the street foods of Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and Myanmar. Generously sized dishes are made with fresh produce, seasoned with aromatic condiments, spices and a large variety of herbs resulting in a flavour-packed experience. Don’t miss the fish curry – a tribute to the chef’s mother's recipe – and the caramelised pineapple pie with yoghurt ice cream made to share.

Bib Gourmand • Indian. Vibrant, modern Indian cooking is on offer at this fun and funky poolside restaurant, where the charming team provide helpful service with a smile. Street food meets sharing plates on the appealingly eclectic menu, with choices from the earth (vegetarian), land (meat) and sea. Colourful dishes, like the tandoori cauliflower roast, and lamb biriyani kofta, come in generous portions.

Bib Gourmand • Indian. Get a taste of India’s street food at this contemporary and vibrant Indian brasserie. The sharing plates are full of flavour and colourfully tell a story of their origins. Expect chaat made with crispy kale, Keema Pao inspired by the long since closed Radio Cafe in Bombay, plenty of breads and of course, a variety of veg-focused dishes. The kulfi falooda arrives swathed in dry ice, while their drinks take inspiration from the people of the bustling Khadak Street, including Nandu's Lazy Man Buck and Rustom's Float.

Bib Gourmand • Japanese. There’s a buzzy atmosphere at this authentic izakaya, set in The Onyx Tower 2 in The Greens. Eight ramen dishes underpin the menu, which also lists other Japanese classics including sushi, sashimi, robata grills and tempura. Ingredients are good quality, cooking is careful, prices are low and flavours, delicious. For a chance to watch the chefs preparing their signature dishes, be sure to book your seats at the counter in advance.

Bib Gourmand • Japanese, Ramen. On the second floor of the Mall of the Emirates is this very likeable restaurant which is a slightly simplified version of the original with the same name in Tokyo. Here, the menu offers ramen, including the signature shoyu ramen, along with other classic Japanese dishes: gyoza, tempura, and kushiyaki such as chicken skewers with yakitori and sesame sauce. End the meal with a light and sweet matcha mochi accompanied by coconut ice cream. Booking isn’t possible, but service starts before noon and there is usually space available at the counter.

Bib Gourmand • Japanese Contemporary. In the residential neighbourhood of Al Wasl, away from the city’s impressive skyscrapers, is a kushiyaki-inspired but friendly restaurant, offering far more than just grilled skewered meats and vegetables. The contemporary Japanese menu also covers a wide range of well-priced snacks, sushi and ramen, like their Tantamen ramen, raw salmon with crispy black rice and Wagyu steamed bun. Be sure to also save room for one of their creative desserts.

Bib Gourmand • Japanese Contemporary. This second branch, opened in 2023, is located in the emerging Dubai Hills district. Similar to the original in Dar Wasl but with a few subtle differences, the eatery offers a wide range of colourful Japanese favourites, from kushiyaki (as the name suggests), to fun classics with an international twist, such as their escargot teriyaki and beef gyoza. The restaurant blends contemporary, sleek design with pops of colour.

Bib Gourmand • Indian. Little sister to avatāra, which is directly next door, this Indian 'tapas bar' is more casual and informal in style, with a particularly good range of cocktails inspired by India’s vastly differing seasons. Inside the L-shaped room, the atmosphere is very relaxed with three TV screens showing sports games, including, unsurprisingly, cricket! The appealingly priced menu comprises a good range of well-crafted, balanced, and gently spiced contemporary Indian dishes, which combine tradition and modernity. Three ‘tapas’ and a main course should do the trick and will arrive when ready. Do leave room for the creative desserts, such as Bailey’s tiramisu with Kahlua rasmalai.

Bib Gourmand • Middle Eastern. A charming restaurant serving authentic Persian fare and run by the third generation of the same family. It’s set on the second floor of the Radisson Blu Hotel and boasts views over the Creek and Old Dubai. Menus offer traditional Persian dishes, such as Kash E Bademjan (their signature eggplant dish) along with a range of marinated meats, all served in generous portions.

Bib Gourmand • Middle Eastern. This second venture from Bait Maryam chef Salam Dakkak is another homage to her mother. Meaning “Maryam’s Dining Table” in Arabic, the restaurant’s homey feel is reflected across the Palestinian art adorning the walls and menu. A plentiful supply of warm, freshly baked breads, including a stellar 48-hour fermented sourdough, and a selection of refined Levantine dishes are generous in flavour and in portions, so sharing is encouraged. Don’t miss the labneh crème brûlée topped with za'atar ice cream and sumac.

Bib Gourmand (Green Star) • Modern Cuisine. Spacious, light and airy, this restaurant at the tip of the Jameel Arts Centre boasts beautiful views through its floor-to-ceiling windows. Their mantra, “sustainability, seasonality, simplicity, and locality," is evident both in their décor and their modern dishes. Menus showcase seasonal, local – and occasionally fermented – ingredients in great value dishes. Be sure to try their plant-based goods from their bakery.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. This brightly decorated café-cum-bistro sits within a red brick building on the edge of the Old Town and has something of a bohemian air, courtesy of a tiled bar, an eclectic mix of artwork and a laid-back vibe. Carefully prepared European dishes have a homely style and burst with freshness and flavour; you can have anything from coffee and cake or a lamb sandwich to a full meal, with the house pasta coming highly recommended. Add to this a charming service team and it’s easy to see why this is a place that’s loved by guests both young and old.

Bib Gourmand • Meats and Grills. This lively all-day brasserie provides the perfect pick-me-up – particularly in the snowy months – thanks to its characterful stone walls, exposed ducting and striking copper chandeliers, while its courtyard is the place to be when the temperatures start to rise. Whatever the weather, you’ll always experience a warm welcome from the charming team. Modern dishes keep their focus on the local area, with the chargrill taking centre stage – the ‘Dirty Steak’, a rib-eye, is cooked directly on the charcoal itself. Portions are generous, so come hungry if you want to make it all the way through to dessert!

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. The sister restaurant to neighbouring UMA is a characterful modern bistro which sits in a cavernous warehouse overlooking the harbour at Port Noblessner. Steel girders, hoists and concrete pillars provide the backdrop, while an open kitchen adds to the buzz. Assured, modern dishes are inspired by the owners’ travels, ensuring you'll always find something that appeals. Go for the Lore Experience menu if you fancy sharing dishes served family-style – and if you see crêpes Suzette on the menu, be sure to give them a try! Friendly service rounds out the experience perfectly.

Bib Gourmand • Contemporary. A residential neighbourhood just outside the city centre plays host to this sweet little house with light turquoise clapboard walls and a bright red roof. Its name means ‘mantel and chimney’ and, fittingly, a green-tiled fireplace and mantel take centre stage in a room furnished with striking wallpapers and bold soft furnishings. Flavoursome dishes have an honest heart and could include goat’s cheese with beer chutney, beetroot and orange or gnocchi with chorizo, sun-dried tomatoes, pine nuts and bechamel sauce. The well-chosen wines have an organic and biodynamic bias, and service is endearing.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Set in a delightful coastal spot looking back towards the city by way of the Baltic Sea, this beach house style restaurant brings plenty of cheer to proceedings thanks its to colourful fabrics and full-length windows that flood the room with light. It’s a large building – home too to NOA Chef’s Hall – clad with wood and filled with natural materials, giving it something of a New England look, but it’s the terrace that’s the place to be when the weather’s right. Dishes could include the likes of tuna crudo, blood orange, chilli and coriander followed by vongole linguine with venus and razor clams.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. This iconic building was constructed in 1965 and some of its original modernist features still remain, giving it a fashionably retro feel. It's set in an elevated spot and affords lovely views through its floor-to-ceiling windows out towards the Gulf of Finland – and its terrace is the place to be come summer. Cooking has a Baltic heart but also features some Mediterranean, Asian and even South American influences, with dishes ranging from the likes of lamb dumplings to a seafood tostada. The presentation matches the skill of the cooking techniques, with some stunning-looking creations.

Bib Gourmand • Asian. From the owners of Lore Bistroo comes UMA, situated in a waterside warehouse where they once built submarines for the Russian navy and now boasting a superb harbourside terrace. An on-trend spot, it’s name stands for ‘Unorthodox Modern Asian’, and that’s exactly what you’ll find here. The great value menu mixes small and large plates – all designed for sharing – and keeps recognisable flavours such as satay and sweet & sour to the fore. The freshly cooked coconut flatbread is a must, while the ‘UMA Experience’ offers a little of everything, with the dishes served on stands akin to those used for afternoon tea.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Friendly service, sensible prices and plenty of buzz in the air – this is the kind of neighbourhood spot we’d all love to have at the end of our street. It’s located in the north of the city, inside a substantial three-storey building dating back to the 19th Century. The unfussy dishes are a great example of Nordic bistronomy: rustic, satisfying and filled with bold, balanced flavours – whether that be fresh herbs adding vibrancy to a burbot dish, or tart lingonberries cutting through the sweetness of meringue.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Located midway between Helsinki Cathedral and the sea, is this simple little bistro decorated in blue and white tones, where the welcoming service team help to create an upbeat atmosphere. Two regularly changing, keenly priced set menus are the draw, with the natural, uncomplicated dishes inspired by modern Mediterranean flavours. The chefs have a great understanding of their ingredients and treat them with care, and flavours are subtle but put together in well-thought-out combinations, such as asparagus and nori seaweed or rhubarb with Earl Grey and lemongrass.

Bib Gourmand (Green Star) • Modern Cuisine, Finnish. Nolla means ‘Zero’, a hint at this lively neighbourhood restaurant’s zero-waste ethos, a philosophy that underlines everything they do, from composting their own food scraps to creating their uniforms from discarded bed linen. Small producers who share the Nolla philosophy provide the ingredients for the hearty cooking, which is best enjoyed from the generous "Chef’s Choice" menu or while sitting at the Chef’s Table for a ‘behind the scenes’ experience. The dishes pack a punch flavour-wise and could include a wonderfully intense, glossy meat reduction sauce to accompany tender roasted deer.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. A simple, homely feel and the generosity of the kitchen have helped to turn this former butcher's shop into a fabulous neighbourhood bistro. A welcome broth and bread provide a great precursor to the 4 course set menu, which can be expanded with two extra dishes. The cooking is flavoursome and demonstrates refined, well thought through composition from the chefs; earthy celeriac, for example, is elevated by the sweetness of pear jelly, balanced by the saltiness of roe-infused beurre blanc and finished off with fragrant dill oil.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. In the heart of the village, Julien Momon and his partner welcome you into a pared-down, wood-rich interior whose modern culinary score is founded on local, seasonal produce. To start, creamy aubergines paired with crunchy courgettes, fresh goat’s cheese from La Grave, basil pesto and red pepper sorbet, followed by 12-hour confit of pork belly in rosemary with velvety mashed potato and iced vegetables. The food is fresh, fragrant, vibrant and polished in a culinary ode to the cornucopia of country produce, courtesy of the virtuoso technique of a chef who boasts stints with Christophe Bacquié and Gérard Boyer. A slap-up meal with all the trimmings and offering excellent value for pleasure.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine, Modern Cuisine. In a quiet street, a stone’s throw from the Eiffel Tower, this restaurant offers an understated interior bathed in light. The traditional score features a lineup of updated recipes. Examples: flavoursome pumpkin soup with gingerbread croutons, fork-tender beef stew with baby potatoes and a vanilla-laced crème brûlée of textbook perfection, even though the house signature, sweet soufflé, remains the highlight of the dessert menu.

Bib Gourmand • Corsican. This former sheepfold, a family business for 15 years, is perfectly in tune with its authentic, welcoming village. Corsican produce takes pride of place from the veg and herbs fresh from the garden to the grilled or spit roast suckling pork and tender lamb (wood fired cooking is the house specialty). Savour textbook perfect, generous fare on the refreshingly shaded terrace.

Bib Gourmand • Japanese. You have probably heard of soba: Japanese noodles made from buckwheat. They are the specialty of this eatery and are dished up noon and evening in an amazing variety of preparations: hot, cold, in stock or with finely sliced beef. Splendid lineup of dishes to share in the evenings (mirin-boshi (dried) mackerel, karaage chicken, tonkatsu, sashimi, etc.). Good, simple food – so get out your chopsticks! No bookings.

Bib Gourmand • Creative. In the rapidly changing Gerland neighbourhood in the 7th arrondissement, this restaurant takes you on a culinary journey. At the helm is a close-knit couple: Jennifer Palopoli on the restaurant floor and Ashwin Vijaykumar, who was born in India and trained in French pastry-making and cuisine in New Zealand. In a former neighbourhood bistro that has been turned into a bright and contemporary space, the chef creates dishes with exotic accents, drawing on spices from India and Asia, Africa, the Middle East and the Americas. We were particularly taken with the grey prawn toast with fine herbs, with a dab of turmeric mayonnaise and gochugaru (Korean chilli flakes), one of their vibrant, generous dishes. A small courtyard to the rear completes this exotic haven.

Bib Gourmand • Italian. This small Italian pasta restaurant has broken free of traditional trattoria codes and embraced a more contemporary vibe, illustrated by the untreated, modern decor and long counter from which diners can admire the kitchen team at work. Dishes to share and a warm, cheerful mood are all part of the experience here. The chef rolls out fresh cuisine that abounds in crisp, bold flavours. A case in point is grilled cos lettuce, pine nut sauce and puttanesca seasoning, or his truly addictive gnocchi in ricotta and creamy smoked mozzarella. The lunch menu is quite as appealing as the mouthwatering à la carte lineup...

Bib Gourmand • Creative. This unfussy, up-to-date bistro sets the scene for instinctive, well-crafted food in the zeitgeist. Fine seasonal produce and a distinct fondness for vegetables result in dishes that combine formal elegance with flavoursome coherence. Now add lashings of generosity and a friendly vibe and you will find yourself in one of the best establishments on the Left Bank of Lyon.

Bib Gourmand • Fusion. Located on a pedestrian street, with an open kitchen that is already visible from outside, Agave references the plant from which tequila and mezcal are made. Raphaël and Fernanda Pillon, a French-Mexican couple and trained pastry-makers, create a brilliant fusion cuisine of French ingredients and Mexican flavours. After a stint in Mexico, the pair returned to his roots in the Ain, where they create balanced dishes, discerningly complemented by a variety of sauces and condiments: scallops and macha salsa, pastrami-style roast beef given a boost by salsa verde, veal rump elevated by an intense mole sauce. Their expertise in patisserie brings the meal to a wonderfully indulgent close.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. In a neighbourhood at a remove from the centre, this colourful, bustling bistro with caramel-toned walls and cheerfully mismatched furniture celebrates each season (the name is made up of the first letters of the four seasons) in a light-hearted atmosphere. Chef Idir Fseil is a fan of fermentation, but also of open-fire and a la plancha cooking, and he prepares a good market cuisine: white tuna, cucumber water and orange in brine; pork belly with green chilli, raw cream and beetroot; beef tartare, fermented black radish, bottarga and grenaille potatoes. Booking is essential.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Near Vitry-en-Artois airfield, this spacious restaurant with an inviting atmosphere is the domain of chef Franck Gilabert. In a decor that references his passion for jazz, his generous and authentic cuisine is served up: red onion parmentier and beef cheek confit, farm-reared pork with Morteau sausage and black pudding, or, for dessert, apple and mascarpone charlotte. In fine weather, the sunny terrace overlooking the garden is just the place to savour this home-style cuisine.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. At the foot of the Aiguille du Midi cable car (which takes passengers up to 3 842m), this is the restaurant of Héliopic Hotel. The modern brasserie setting has a decor of untreated wood, metal and granite, along with designer furniture. The space gives onto a partially covered terrace with views of the mountains. The menu of vibrant and inspired cuisine features house-made chorizo grilled over charcoal with baba ganoush, crab ravioli with citrus fruits seasoned with a shellfish emulsion and Timut pepper, and braised pork cheek with cider, served with green spaetzle, cherries and red onions. During the UTMB race, a special menu is dedicated to the ultramarathon runners.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. Located in the Manoir de la Mortière, this bistro’s inviting decor mixes textured lime-washed walls, old beams, terracotta floor tiles and a period fireplace. The food smacks of heartwarming sincerity, thanks to carefully crafted comfort food: organic poached egg in red wine; free-range chicken à la basquaise; tournedos of beef cooked over embers with a béarnaise sauce and a warm cappuccino-flavoured soufflé to finish.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Anto, as in chef Anthony Bisquerra, originally from France's South-West, who fell in love with Haute-Savoie, with its mountains and its lakes. He tells this story at his restaurant in Annecy's old town in a harmonious decor of whitewashed walls, wood and stone. His cuisine is a skilful balancing act, juxtaposing Savoie with other regions that he knows well. For example, scallops flirt with Espelette pepper and pine buds; duck from Semnoz comes with a Swiss chard and Abondance cheese gratin; and chocolate and piquillo pepper ice cream find their perfect match in the smoked Sriracha. An absolute standout.

Bib Gourmand (Green Star) • Farm to table. Artzain means "shepherd" in Basque – a tribute by the owner to his father. Located in the centre of the village, this converted barn has retained its rustic feel, with its exposed stone beams and walls, while sporting a designer style thanks to the furniture by Basque craftsman Alki. The menu features an enticing array of seasonal and predominantly local cuisine that doesn't disappoint, with dishes such as the flavoursome warm terrine of Kriaxera duck, Arto Gorria corn polenta galette, caramelised spring onions and crispy ventrèche.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Atelier Salone, the bistronomy sibling of Villa Salone, is lavished with attention by Alexandre Lechêne, a chef with a stellar CV (Aux Lyonnais, Louis XV in Monaco) and formerly Michelin-starred in Saint-Véran (Hautes Alpes département). On the day of our visit, the menu included slow-cooked organic egg with pumpkin and truffles, a delicious vol-au-vent and a chestnut and blackcurrant mont blanc dessert with chestnut ice cream. The original style of this early-20C building is underscored by contemporary details.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Near Nancy and the Rhine-Rhone Canal, we warrant you will be won over by the vintage charm of this 1960’s house and its discreet rural edge. A family business for three generations, formerly an open-air tavern, today’s diners make a beeline for its shaded terrace. Seasonal, up-to-the-minute fare: pig’s trotters, sardines, confit onions; apricot crumble and vanilla cream – signed by the owner-chef, all of which washed down by a fine choice of vintages.

Bib Gourmand • Creative. This restaurant with a bright, contemporary decor delivers the goods when it promises a warm welcome. Chef Gaëtan Crespin works with excellent seasonal produce, most sourced locally, to craft creative and technically on-point cuisine. A shining example comes in the form of his scallops, endive and clementine, or roast veal, parsnips and shiitake… And with excellent value for money guaranteed, it was love at first bite!

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Run by an enthusiastic wine buff, this bubbly bistro also benefits from the culinary talent of a former chef of Christophe Bacquié. The regularly renewed slate menu stars a pedigree bistro lineup, albeit with an updated Mediterranean twang: tartare of Aveyron veal in herbs, capers and wholegrain mustard; picanha of mountain-raised pork, roast butternut in honey and rosemary and a finger-licking house BBQ sauce. The concise but inspired wine list is a treasure trove of sensibly priced local tipples. Pick up some cheese and a bottle or two from the next-door wine shop-cum-grocery store. Bookings are essential if you want to be sure of a seat in this welcoming, authentic location, just a stone’s throw from the seafront.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine, Alsatian. Opened in 1947 and well known to Strasbourg locals, this winstub is now run by Alexis Albrecht, chef at Au Vieux Couvent in Rhinau. The menu, more akin to an Alsace bistro than a traditional winstub, showcases classic bistro dishes, seasonal fare and Alsace traditions: terrine with game hunted in the Ried, Alsace white asparagus and morels in puff pastry, pikeperch with beurre noisette, veal kidney with charcutière sauce, or bouchée à la reine (vol au vent). Delicious, generous dishes made with quality ingredients. Friendly atmosphere and good wine recommendations.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Trout from Lau-Balagnas, rabbit from Julos, lamb from Val d'Azun, carrots from Lézignan, dairy produce from Ferme Sayous, coffee roasted in Sassis: Céline, the sommelier and restaurant manager, never misses a chance to sing the praises of the super-local ingredients that her chef partner, Mathieu, expertly crafts into succulent dishes. After training in top establishments (including L'Artichaut, Montpellier), the couple has found their way to our hearts via our stomachs and our tastebuds: organic egg, cream of Jerusalem artichoke, sweet onions, emulsion of star anise; squash-flavoured brioche and ice cream, creamy mandarin and marmalade.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. This pleasant and elegant restaurant has been run by the same family since 1928 and is now in the hands of the fifth generation! A historical monument frozen in time? Far from it – the chef puts a brilliant contemporary spin on the riches of the terroir. The pretty space is simple, cosy and utterly charming; however, in fine weather, head for the large covered terrace overlooking the flower-decked garden. A welcoming establishment where they take pride in what they do.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. On the way into the village on the border between Bresse and Jura, don’t miss this eatery that has been lovingly cared for by Mr and Mrs Debourg for some thirty years. Their cosy, traditional lair is ideal to sample Vincent’s heartwarming, deftly crafted score in which top-drawer ingredients (scallops, blue lobster, turbot and farm-reared veal) cosy up to Bresse specialities (snails, chickens). The wine list boasts over 800 references, many of which are from Jura. The quintessence of rural France!

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Behind a glass frontage on the main street of Cité Vauban, a smiling welcome and friendly atmosphere await you in this recently refurbished, bright and wood-panelled space. Tuck into fragrant courgette gazpacho with olive oil, enhanced with tomato sorbet and fresh goat's cheese mousse, or plump and juicy duck breast accompanied by lime hummus and tangy raspberries. Run by Michaël Chassigneux for over 10 years, this restaurant has become a must in Briançon.

Bib Gourmand • Alsatian. Experience local gastronomic specialities and traditional decor (Renaissance features, posters) in this restaurant next door to the Musée Alsacien, with its displays of popular art.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Just a stone's throw from the romantic ruins of Hambye Abbey, this welcoming hotel-restaurant run by an endearing couple is a hit with the locals. The tastefully restored interior sports a colourful vibe with a fireplace in winter and a large terrace overlooking the Sienne come summertime. The chef, who learned the trade here before moving on to other prestigious establishments, has returned to his roots, producing tasty, no-frills cuisine that draws upon his solid classical background, illustrated by risotto of Pont l'Évêque cheese, andouille sausage, a hint of cider vinegar and a crunchy cracker. Excellent value for money.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Once a coaching inn (c 1800), this restaurant has a refined interior with ceiling mouldings and a fireplace. It is run by chef Géraldine Laubrières, who puts a modern spin on traditional French cuisine, which is expertly served: beef cheek with gentian, warm lobster and chestnut cream, wild boar royale. The desserts are just as dazzling, particularly the soufflé, the flavour of which changes with the seasons. Pleasant service, reasonable prices and an appealing wine list.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Alexandre and Mélanie Baranzelli are thriving in a new venue oozing with country charm: picture a stream spanned by two bridges and a watermill! The chef, after honing his skills in top establishments, demonstrates his fondness for traditional recipes from his native Normandy, to which he is increasingly adding his own distinctive culinary hallmark.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. You have to gain a little altitude to reach this village high up in the Pyrenees, which champions its exceptional natural heritage with understandable pride. In the central square, a young couple runs this restaurant with energy and enthusiasm, celebrating the region's traditions and produce. Highlights include their take on a garbure soup, with meltingly tender Tarbais beans, Noir de Bigorre pork belly, pan-fried duck foie gras from Ferme de Mourlon and cou farci (stuffed duck's neck). Other dishes are more contemporary: 64°C hen's egg with butternut cream, haddock and thyme. The appealing wine list features almost 500 wines.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. You soon forget the road just outside, as you snuggle up near the fireplace of this pleasant Auberge! The menu stars simple dishes of Burgundian inspiration that are nicely crafted and packed with flavour: slow-cooked egg and snails in a red wine sauce, guinea fowl supreme, puréed potato, braised endive, Bourdaloue tart – and the bill won't break the bank.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. All the charm of an old Breton house in a pretty little town full of character. The refined and creative cuisine showcases seasonal regional produce. At lunchtime, there's a mouth-watering market-inspired set menu that represents remarkable value for money. The line-caught pollack served with buckwheat risotto with squid ink is on point! Even better, the chef bakes the bread himself.

Bib Gourmand • Alsatian, Modern Cuisine. Marquetry art from Atelier Spindler, antiques, bleached beams and rough wooden tables: the dining area displays its Alsatian heritage with pride! On the menu: tasty regional specialities, tartes flammées, but also Breton turbot with shrimp bisque and risotto venere, and delicious desserts, like this raspberry-meets-geranium from the garden. Bucolic terrace on the banks of the River Zorn, impeccable welcome and service – this place deserves its success.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. Grape vines are a prominent feature of this converted wine storehouse, which sports a pleasant rustic vibe. The food juggles appetisingly between textbook tradition and modern influences: cumin-flavoured velvety carrots, confit of poultry gizzards and gorgonzola crumble; fillet of ling, cream of garden sorrel and seasonal veggies… The menu changes once a fortnight. Fine local Val de Loire wines at prices that make sense. Service with a smile.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. The same family has been honing their gift for hospitality and running this inn, formerly a post house, since 1870. Chef Mathias pours his energy into concocting gutsy food with fine produce, harnessing his immaculate technique and inspired talent to the delight of foodies. An experience to be sampled in an elegant interior, whose vintage charm is dotted with modern touches. Attentive front-of-house service by Martial, the chef’s brother. Simpler bistro score at lunchtime. A few rooms for overnight stays.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. (Temporarily closed for renovations) Chef Pierre Négrevergne is really flourishing in this house that is over 100 years old. He delights diners with his tasty "grandmother's" cooking, which highlights French gastronomic heritage (home-made terrine, blanquette de veau à l'ancienne and grilled rice, millefeuille), served in generous portions. It is still a treat to eat here.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. The couple at the head of this pleasant inn in a small village near Valençay can be relied upon to whip up amazing food; everything is homemade and the chef favours regional ingredients to concoct his delicate, toothsome recipes. Served in a charming rustic interior or alfresco on the flower-decked terrace in fine weather. The establishment’s success and excellent value for money mean that bookings are essential.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. The two Ks refer to Kagy (Samantha, chef) and Kinoshita (Kimiko, pastry chef), a pair who joined forces after rewarding stints in prestigious establishments (Violon d'Ingres, L'Ours, Atelier Joël Robuchon, Taillevent). Their consummate technical skill shines through in dishes that are as delicious as their names are enticing, in particular the house signature of roasted pigeon, smoked eel and shallots in a salmis sauce. A few nods to Southwest France are a reminder of the influence of Christian Constant.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. Located in a village on the banks of the Moselle, this local institution has been given a new lease of life by chef Benoit Potdevin (Le K - Domaine de la Klauss in Montenach). Either in the refurbished dining room or on the peaceful terrace to the rear, diners tuck into classic local dishes, lovingly prepared using carefully selected ingredients: eg asparagus with mousseline sauce, pike quenelle with a lemon-infused beurre blanc, free-range Moselle poultry with morels, braised ham with Auxerrois sauce and bouchée à la reine. The food is generous, indulgent and delicious – and served with a smile by Anaïs, who will recommend the best wines from the region.

Bib Gourmand • Provençal. This family business, opened in 1935, only recently had a telephone line installed, but still accepts cash only! The fourth generation continues to craft authentic Provençal ingredients into heart-warming, hunger obliterating dishes. All the produce, fruit, veg and fish from small boats, comes direct from Forville Market just down the road. We tucked into petits farcis (stuffed vegetables), Niçois-style braised beef cheeks, homemade gnocchi and the house dessert: rum baba with vanilla cream – to die for!

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. A young Japanese chef with an iron-clad CV crafts inspired, generous cuisine using the best ingredients of the neighbourhood. Semi-cooked fillet of bonito in a sweet-sour sauce with a tapenade of braised chard; shoulder of pork, mustard cream and mashed sweet potato; bergamot-laced cheesecake with red and black cherries spiked in Espelette pepper. A deftly crafted, out-of-the-ordinary lineup that changes weekly and never fails to hit the spot. At lunchtime, a trilogy of starters and a dish of the day at an unbeatable price.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. This restaurant is housed in a converted 19C coaching inn opposite the medieval castle. A tight-knit chef and sommelier duo are at the helm, pooling their gourmet skills. The chef carefully prepares local ingredients and freshly caught fish to create mouth-watering dishes, such as Roi Rose de Touraine pork, perfectly confit, packed with sweet and savoury flavours and served with delicious pak choi steamed then flash-seared over a flame. As you will see, there's a lot of work involved; apart from the wonderful bread from the local baker, everything from the amuse-bouche to the dessert is beautifully crafted and made in-house. A lovely dining experience, not to mention friendly service and savvy wine recommendations from the sommelier.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. Chef Émile Cotte has opened a sibling of his Parisian establishment. In a modern bistro setting illuminated by large picture windows and divided into several areas, including a table d'hôte, the chef crafts food that he himself loves: generous bistro classics with a modern twist and a focus on simplicity and indulgence, cf. duck’s leg flanked by braised green cabbage and smoked garlic sausage. Dishes often pay tribute to Limousin, where the chef was born. His tempting lineup includes pâté en croûte, vol-au-vent, sweetbread, guanaja chocolate choux.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. Indulgence and good wine: Gilles Choukroun has taken his friend Émile Cotte's motto and made it his own! In the lively atmosphere of a Parisian bistro, he serves up his generous take on hearty bistro classics: marinated herring and potato salad; calf's head, tongue and brains in sauce ravigote; floating island with praline and crème anglaise… Appealing menu-carte on the blackboard.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. The chef has more than one trick up his sleeve, and his cuisine, poised between terroir-based and modern, is brimming with flavour. Examples include cappuccino of mushrooms, grilled parsnips and Wambrechies whisky caramel. Bold dishes based on quality ingredients (fish from Boulogne-sur-Mer, for example). Slick service. The peaceful little terrace is a real draw, especially on summer evenings.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. It is worth going out of your way to come to this restaurant with a simple, welcoming decor and a wine bar atmosphere. At the helm, Breton chef Maxime Le Maux serves up an affordable lunch formule, plus a few well-thought-out daily specials. In the evening, a more elaborate set menu is added, along with tapas and platters for sharing. Ingredients are local and seasonal: Ardèche trout, vegetables from the Rhône Valley, sheep's cheese. The modern cuisine shows flashes of inventiveness, as is the case with the chef's wonderful take on carbonara, featuring white and green asparagus – as original as it is delicious.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Facing the Grande Plage de Tharon, this bright seaside bistro is an offshoot of chef Mathieu Guibert's restaurant, Anne de Bretagne. You can get a taste of the sea, both in the dishes (some of which, such as the seafood platters, are for sharing) and in the surrounding scenery. Vegetarian and meat options are also served. The impeccable quality of the dishes benefits from the chef's network of suppliers. From the fried prawn amuse-bouche to the new take on vitello tonnato, and not forgetting the smoked trout, everything is on point. The service, provided by a young, smiling team, is the epitome of professionalism and friendliness. The wine list is full of surprises. Excellent value for money on the set menu. A good job well done.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine, Catalan. It is always a pleasure to return to this eatery at the foot of the ramparts. The menu is the epitome of regional, which is not surprising as the chef uses local produce delivered by the farmers in person. Slow-roasted haunch of tender Pyrenean veal, hazelnut-flavoured Catalan picada sauce and millefeuille of potatoes… without forgetting cheese from the Pyrenees! Cosy rooms for overnight stays.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. This bistronomic bijou is tucked away in the heart of a district in the throes of renovation. In a cosy, nature-inspired interior, youthful Maxime Pujol rolls out his technical skills as he conjures up seasonal dishes, rich in crisp flavours and beautifully presented – all of which at eater friendly prices at lunchtime. More ambitious score in the evening with a surprise menu.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Previously a cloister, this magnificent historical building oozes character. It now houses a restaurant, a cocktail bar and a cheese bar, as well as an alfresco inner courtyard – bliss on balmy summer evenings. Mathieu Desmarest, chef of starred restaurant Pollen, signs the menu and his wife Émilie supervises the front-of-house in this friendly, party-loving hot spot. As for the food, the contemporary score is prepared to order, using fresh, seasonal ingredients with Mediterranean overtones: creamy pumpkin, onion confit, stracciatella; orzo risotto with pecorino, finely chopped veggies in sage and beef charcuterie…

Bib Gourmand • Farm to table. In the heart of this charming borough, on a pedestrian square near the town hall, a pocket-sized restaurant run by a young chef with an impressive cv. Market-inspired menu with the likes of fresh pasta with mussels, calamari and langoustines, or poultry quenelles with freekeh... Scandinavian style dining room, terrace overlooking a fountain. Delicious prices.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. Under the same roof as its sister restaurant, Brioude, is the bistro, which has its own separate space – itself split into two bright areas. It serves a smart, traditional market-fresh menu: poultry, pistachio and morel pâté en croûte; fin gras du Mézenc, porcini and carrot purée; feuillantine praline and coffee ice cream. Suffice to say, you're in for a treat – and at an affordable price! On top of that, there's a terrace and a cordial welcome awaits.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. The lilting accent of the South of France can be detected in this bistro, where a really convivial atmosphere reigns. Things hot up in the kitchen, with delicious dishes such as old-fashioned pork casserole with creamy polenta, knife-cut beef tartare or grilled veal kidney with wholegrain mustard and baby potatoes in a parsley sauce... Crowded? Well, yes: Antoine has a huge (and well-deserved) success on his hands.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. Garden-fresh tomato salad and courgette cream, local fish of the day, grilled meat and vegetables from local growers, followed by a vanilla millefeuille pastry with salted butter caramel: taste the market-fresh, country cuisine, without killer prices, of a star chef in this bistro, next-door to his star establishment.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. This brasserie, run by the team from Villa Archange, sports a modern decor, a friendly vibe and set menus inspired by sunny climes! Tuck into artichokes stuffed with egg mayo, Florentine cream and basil or veal kidneys with mushrooms. For dessert, make your choice from a wickedly tempting sweets trolley filled with treats. You'll be in seventh heaven!

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. A fabulous bistro repertoire of tried-and-true classics: think herring fillets, potatoes in oil; œufs mimosa (devilled eggs); scallops roasted in butter; veal blanquette; profiteroles, vanilla ice cream and chocolate gianduja. The menu is devised by David Bottreau in the spirit of Christian Constant, his long-time associate and mentor. Generous, flavoursome cuisine in a typical Parisian bistro atmosphere, where diners tuck in cheek to jowl at small tables laid out next to each other.

Bib Gourmand • Seafood, Traditional Cuisine. Let us make no bones about it: in this bistro, it is the sea that decides, and the dishes depend directly on the local catch. Enjoy squid, foie gras du pêcheur, sole du bistro or scallops with lentils. Quality and freshness are the order of the day, and what generosity in the preparations!

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. This pleasant traditional French bistro by the River Seine has a friendly front-of-house team serving up good old-fashioned recipes. Tuck into veal kidneys with mustard sauce, coq au vin, or frogs' legs with persillade sauce in a lively atmosphere… Be sure to sample the house speciality: andouillette.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. This delightful bistro in the middle of the village is an outpost of Régis and Jacques Marcon's fine dining restaurant. Traditional pâté en croûte, updated with every season; roast chicken fillet, chicken leg rillettes with hazelnut and pumpkin; cheeses from the Ardèche and Auvergne: What more can we say? This hearty fare is fiendishly delicious. The open kitchens lend the place an inviting feel.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. At the foot of this gorgeous village, known for its abbey church and Pierre Soulages's stained-glass windows, Moulin de Cambelong is home to this bistronomy restaurant, a friendly and down-to-earth alternative to Émilie and Thomas's MICHELIN-starred restaurant. Tuck into indulgent cuisine: tomato gazpacho, mussels and vierge vinaigrette; pulled pork with sorrel sauce.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. In the heart of a village of orchards devoted to walnut growing, this lovely stone building is where Yann Tanneau rolls out a creative and enticing lineup. After learning the ropes in top houses, this tattooed and enthusiastic chef crafts and serves, entirely single-handedly, perfectly executed first-class dishes. You may start with a yummy association of oeuf parfait, creamy celery, smoked haddock and Iberic lomo. For the main course, we recommend juicy, tender poultry breast, underscored by cardamon, combawa and green curry. This elegant, gourmet feast is sampled in a simple, welcoming interior. Booking is essential in this establishment, whose value for pleasure ratio is truly exceptional.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. Bare stone walls, bench seating and a superb wooden counter set the scene in this bistro, which is housed in its parent hotel. Expertly crafted burgundy recipes take pride of place on the nostalgic menu: home-cured ham, poached egg in wine, Bresse poultry, profiteroles... Fantastic wine list!

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. British chef Simon Scott worked his way from London to Provence, before setting up shop here in the Tarn département. The vivid red façade leads diners into a vibrant and cosy pop-inspired decor. This eclectic chef and master craftsman works exclusively with good-quality (local) ingredients, in a bid to serve his guests precise, colourful and tasty dishes that change regularly according to the market stalls. This Bistrot des Saveurs is certainly aptly named!

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Tucked away behind the town hall, this compact restaurant has a somewhat unusual basement-level dining room with exposed stone, metal beams, glass partitions and modern light fittings. The chef cooks up hearty dishes, remarkable for both their generosity and bold flavours: maiale tonnato, Parmesan and capers; magret de canard, mashed potatoes with whole-grain mustard, vegetables and a piquillo pepper coulis. Friendly welcome and service, and the lunchtime set menu is a steal!

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. The name hints at an abundance of food, drink and fun with friends, a promise that is kept within the stone walls of this bistro with an open kitchen and a few seats at the counter. The lunchtime and evening menus offer dishes ranging from roast pak choi, paprika sabayon and roasted hazelnut to skate wing, citrus butter, cream of celery, smoked Jerusalem artichoke, chestnuts and a langoustine jus – or plates to share washed down with a well-curated list of biodynamic or natural wines. Fresh ingredients, fine craftsmanship and overflowing with vibrant flavours and skill.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Is there anything France's talented female chefs can't do? Charlotte Bauduret – Bonnie is her maiden name – brings together her two passions at this establishment: cooking (modern, vibrant, indulgent, rooted in tradition but elevated with personal touches) and the applied arts. She herself painted the large floral frescoes on the walls and created the restaurant's entire visual identity. Her partner, meanwhile, provides enthusiastic service and dispenses expert advice on wine pairings. On the menu: asparagus roll with pine nuts and guanciale; cod with kombu and tarragon-infused pea mousseline; broad-bean gnocchi in a creamy artichoke and parmesan sauce.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. At this restaurant a stone's throw from the train station, you receive a warm welcome in a British-style decor with exposed stonework, wood panelling and moleskin-clad banquettes. "Brunet" pâté en croûte; black pudding with onions, apple and lamb's lettuce salad; calf's liver and spelt risotto – an avalanche of delicious dishes served in a relaxed atmosphere by a smiling team in black attire and leather aprons.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. The little sister of the Château les Crayères, housed in an outbuilding in the park, is a smart, very contemporary and elegant brasserie with its own veranda and terrace just opposite the herb garden. Flavoursome seasonal cooking.

Bib Gourmand • Breton. On the port of Cancale, Breizh Café has one motto: "A new take on crêpes." After all, the concept was originally born in Japan! The owner, Bertrand Larcher, was the first to export Brittany's galettes (buckwheat pancakes) to Tokyo, and several Japanese restaurants later, he has founded one back home. The produce is organic (eggs, cheese, meat) and first rate. The crispy flavoursome galettes and wafer-thin, soft pancakes are made entirely traditionally. The filling depends on your mood, ranging from classical to unusual: artichoke rolls, scrambled egg, Comté cheese or Saint Malo wakame seaweed. The upstairs window commands a splendid view of Cancale port. Something of a local landmark, it is often fully booked.

Bib Gourmand • Crêpe. In the heart of the village, on the pedestrian street next to the church where a large Christmas tree is erected in winter, this converted chalet is home to an authentic Breton eatery. Yvon Madec oysters are served alongside Breton pancakes – buckwheat galettes and wheat flour crêpes – enhanced with Japanese or Savoyard touches, for instance "Breizh Roll" with Reblochon cheese, or raw milk raclette galette. Locally sourced produce, cheese from a refiner in nearby Manigod and a fine selection of ciders and wines… plus wallet-friendly prices.

Bib Gourmand • Breton. Why change a formula that works? Bertrand Larcher, the man who introduced the Breton crêpe to Japan, has set up shop in Rennes, a stone's throw from the city's Marché des Lices. The setting is a modern, industrial-style space with an open kitchen. The ingredients for success are still the same: high-quality produce that is predominantly organic (stone-ground wheat grown in Brittany, buckwheat flour milled in Vitré, organic eggs, artisanal Basque charcuterie from Pierre Oteiza). Alongside the classic galettes (buckwheat pancakes), there are more original iterations, some with a Japanese twist, such as the kinako crêpe with Okinawa black sugar and matcha ice cream. There is a short menu of nibbles and oysters.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. "Briemm" is a contraction of Brice and Emmanuelle, who have partnered up (in business and in life) to found this dinky eatery in a lovely stone-built house, which is depicted by generous cooking and a gracious welcome. The sensibly priced patriotic lineup stars a succulent list of dishes that reveals a genuine eye for detail and a fine bouquet of flavours, e.g. crunchy pig’s trotters, purée of granny smith apples and caramelised walnuts, or flame-licked mackerel flanked by watercress soup and squid ink-laced shortbread. What’s not to like?

Bib Gourmand • Asian. The duo at the helm of Eels, both of whom trained with William Ledeuil and both of whom are passionate about Asia whose continent they’ve roamed, celebrate the joyful diversity of Asian cuisine in this their second establishment, a two-storey bistro-style affair. The result: delicious fragrant small plates, concocted from quality produce, such as this black sesame onigiri, filled with 14 month aged comté cheese and spinach, or the hoisin-glazed beef check with celeriac, grapefruit and medjool dates.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. On the heights of the picturesque village of Guéthary, the Ibarboure family hotel also operates this pleasant bistro, independent from their fine dining restaurant. The chef crafts meticulous, delicate and flavoursome food in an uncluttered setting. Basque ingredients dominate the generous dishes of the concise menu: Bayonne ham, bellota chorizo, Banka trout, Ardi-Gasna cheese. A youthful, friendly team and sensible prices. A real treat.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine, Farm to table. There is space for just eight diners at the large counter laid out face to face with the kitchen, plus a few more tables to the rear. Every day, a single fish-forward set menu is improvised by chef Guillaume Brisard, who has forged an impressive culinary path (Fort de l'Océan in Le Croisic, Le Skipper in Saint-Nazaire). Fine ingredients inspire his dishes, which you can savour as you engage in conversation with the chef.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine, Creole. At the helm of this new restaurant is Julia de Laguarigue, a chef from Martinique, who learned the ropes in excellent kitchens. She concocts delicious bistro-style cuisine with strong Creole influences, which she dubs "Frenchie-tropical". Indulgence abounds in her cooking, with combinations that hit the spot every time, a lineup of dishes that changes regularly and a choice of sides (cream of garlic-laced cassava or white beans in coconut milk). The appealing set lunchtime menu is comprised of dishes from the à la carte menu; in the evening, there is more choice. Online bookings only.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. From a long line of bakers, chef Richard Durand has made C'la Vie a real mecca for food lovers. The food is good and life is good! The daily menu features terrific ingredients (most of them local), the flavours are distinctive, and the focus is firmly on dining pleasure. Enjoy your meal in the pared-back dining area inside, or on the terrace in the shade of a hundred-year-old plane tree. A fine selection of wines that celebrates the Rhône Valley and Languedoc, and rightfully so.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Chef Jean-François Bury, with stints at the George V and the Shangri-La under his belt, is masterfully regaling Nanterre with modern, bistronomic nosh. Examples: organic meurette-style egg; pork belly confit in saté, buckwheat spaetzle and lemon grass-laced mushroom stock; upside-down apple pie with Madagascan vanilla-spiked Isigny cream… Succulent flavours and generous helpings at excellent value for pleasure. High-flying craftsmanship.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine, Modern Cuisine. The beating heart of Maison Aribert, Café A never sleeps – it is open throughout the week from breakfast to dinner. Remaining true to his "village café" theme, which reinterprets recipes handed down from mothers and grandmothers, the chef proposes fine bistronomy cuisine at affordable prices. The simple food is made from carefully selected ingredients. Memorable dishes include a simply addictive pain perdu made with brioche served with ice cream and caramel sauce. A safe bet every time. Brunch on Sundays.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. This handsome building is an institution in this Vercors village. Dating from 1867, it is home to a historical cafe adorned with frescoes dating back to 1912. Locally sourced ingredients from the Vercors plateau play the lead roles on the menu, which changes regularly. Respect for the seasons goes hand in hand with respect for the produce, culinary skill and flavour. Three guestrooms upstairs.

Bib Gourmand • Farm to table. Here in the Musicians' Quarter, Australian chef Christopher Edwards, who hails from Paris, devises a short menu that makes no bones about sticking strictly to market produce: autumn terrine with figs, tripe stew Niçoise-style, Perugina sausages and Sardinian fregola. These are hearty, unpretentious dishes, served in a simple setting by Charlotte (his partner), who cordially manages the dining room and handles the well-chosen selection of natural wines. Lunch is very affordable, dinner more ambitious but still reasonably priced.

Bib Gourmand • Italian. The idea was to unite Italian cuisine and the dishes of Périgord's terroir – and Maryse Benoit-Gonin and her husband have done just that in this cosy bistro. The generous, lovingly prepared dishes combine the best of both worlds: potato gnocchi with Périgord walnut oil; guinea fowl and pancetta terrine with foie gras; Périgord beef meatball alla milanese.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Chef Franck Baranger crafts fresh, meticulously modern dishes, the secret of which only he holds. A few examples: onion tartlet, confit of egg yolk, violet mustard and an emulsion of thyme and bacon; cabbage stuffed with mushrooms, salad of Brussel sprouts, vegetable gravy… A casual, friendly vibe provides the perfect foil to a distinctive, appetising and colourful culinary tapestry.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. On the ground floor of a handsome Haussmann building, this bistro exudes Parisian charm: at the entrance, a few places at the convivial bar and a handful of tables; to the rear, a retro-chic space (snazzy green imitation leather banquettes, white walls, vintage hanging lamps) and an open kitchen reminiscent of – you guessed it – a capsule. The chef's comforting home cooking may be simple, but it is precisely executed using fresh ingredients. The roast chicken jus is quite something! The floating island with salted butter caramel and roasted almonds confirm that the proof is in the pudding.

Bib Gourmand • Farm to table. In the picturesque and lively neighbourhood of Saint-Aubin, this tiny bistro is always busy! Chef Nicolas Brousse and his wife take great pleasure in serving up tasty, carefully prepared dishes. And in keeping with this spirit of conviviality, why not share a fine steak (butcher's choice – for two people)? This goes down very well with a natural wine from the extensive selection. The set menu changes every week.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. This wine bar-cum-eatery decked in pale wood is a more casual version of chef Angelo Ferrigno’s signature universe - the CIBO is just opposite. A table d’hôte, counters and shelves of wine set the warm scene in which to sample a score rooted in the region. The single set lunchtime menu is resolutely seasonal, while hearty dishes to share starring cherry-picked ingredients depict the evening repertory: boards of charcuterie and/or cheese; ceviche of trout, celery and kalamansi dressing; rib eye of beef. There is never a dull moment in this pint-sized establishment buzzing in sincerity.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. La Cave à Manger by Lionel Giraud proposes bistro cuisine made with top-notch ingredients from Occitanie. The food is rugged, flavoursome and spot-on – special mention for the chuck beef slowly simmered in its juices and the velvety purée of carrots. La Cave à Vin, located under the same roof, boasts 2,500 wines; pick a bottle to drink with your meal for a corkage fee. A real winner.

Bib Gourmand • Meats and Grills, Traditional Cuisine. In this world-famous wine-growing village, a "wine bistro" is bound to be a hit. Picture the scene: a local entrepreneur, two Japanese chefs who are huge fans of French cuisine, top-notch ingredients (house-made tapas, charcuterie and purebred meats that have been perfectly matured), and an amazing wine list at bargain prices (to sample here or take away). Local patrons and wine-loving tourists mingle here, and a positive atmosphere reigns. To be consumed in moderation!

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. On the road to the Château de Chantilly – famous for its ancient paintings, the richest collection after the Louvre's – this place with a refined decor has not one, but two terraces. Perfect for sunny days! The delicious, seasonal cuisine works its charm, enhanced with harissa here (on the gazpacho), with pesto there (on the tuna, broad beans, Swiss chard and peppers).

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Here in the historical centre of the village, Manosque native Bastien Delgado invites diners to sample his generous modern cuisine that is strongly rooted in Provence. Trained at Dominique Bucaille, he has honed a taste for meat, particularly calf sweetbreads; his time at La Bastide de Moustiers (Alain Ducasse), meanwhile, has influenced his use of vegetables, a prominent feature on his menu. His menu-carte is excellent value for money and showcases refined, fragrant and creative cuisine: semi-cooked tuna with wild garlic, or verbena and peach clafoutis with citrus fruits and almonds.

Bib Gourmand • Regional Cuisine. This likeable establishment, run by the same family since 1953, was founded by grandma Davia and taken over in 1985 by mum, Alda, now retired. Since 2016, Pierre Altobelli, whose impressive CV features star establishments in France and Asia, concocts tempting recipes rich in the aromas of Nice. Every detail is perfect, and the ingredients are meticulously sourced. Served in a welcoming vintage bistro décor steeped in authenticity. Heavenly!

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. At the foot of a charming stone village, this gem of a contemporary bistro overlooking the Garonne Canal exudes a nostalgic and refined vibe. Run by a young couple, it charms with its polished vintage decor and generous, creative cuisine that pushes boundaries: a starter of smoked eel, soft focaccia and foamy lemon butter, followed by perfectly browned skrei cod, burnt cauliflower and a vibrant mojo verde, and a creamy vanilla and salted caramel rice pudding for dessert. Don't hesitate to come for a meal complete with a lovely view.

Bib Gourmand • Alsatian, Country cooking. A buzzy vibe and closely packed tables set the scene in this winstub, whose menu is the epitome of Alsace tradition (cockerel in Riesling, garnished sauerkraut, braised knuckle), albeit with a few more creative dishes, such as their delicate Alsace makis. Don’t miss the chance to sample one of the house specialties: melt-in-the-mouth pork cheeks slowly braised and simmered in a velvety pinot noir sauce – to die for!

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. This warm, modish bistro, which occupies two floors, rolls out seasonal, spot-on cuisine, savvily tweaked with seasonings like fermented pickle sauce or blackcurrant pickled gel that add a kick to calf’s sweetbread fried in breadcrumbs. The knowledgeable staff can be relied on for insightful tips regarding the wine list that unveils a soft spot for natural wines.

Bib Gourmand • Seafood, Modern Cuisine. Inspired by the oyster bars of the East Coast of the United States, this outpost of Septime owes its name to a cocktail that is very popular in Quebec, a Bloody Mary of sorts with the addition of clam juice – needless to say, you can try one here! The place has all the makings of a bistronomy hit, with its trendy decor and short menu that puts fish and seafood and vegetables centre stage, and draws on international influences. The ingredients are chosen with great care and prepared as simply as possible, then presented in plates for sharing. Please note that reservations are not possible: first come, first served!

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. In the heart of the Forez region, this group of large stone and timber buildings nestles between a fir forest and a lake. The property is conducive to kicking back on the terrace in summer or, in winter, to embracing the hygge lifestyle by the imposing fireplace in the cosy restaurant room. Chef Thomas Laurier (Maison Pic and Dame de Pic, Chabichou) cooks up indulgent comfort food: an excellent pâté en croûte (a speciality served year-round in different variations), or pain de brochet – tender and crispy pike terrine with a perfectly executed dill and potato velouté. The chef's partner provides snappy service in the busy dining area.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. This cleverly named restaurant (a pun on côteaux meaning hills and couteaux meaning knives) is housed in an old wine cellar. The region is well represented both by the delicious cuisine and by the excellent choice of local wines. Pleasant, contemporary decor and a terrace overlooking the vineyards.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. In a pedestrian street of historic Annecy, this dinky restaurant is the lair of Sandra and Léo who compose a traditional score rich in nods to Savoie (‘cozna’ means kitchen): shoulder of pork, stuffed cabbage and a Thai emulsion followed by baked apple on short crust pastry with butterscotch and vanilla ice cream. Cheerful service and invariably packed to the rafters!

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. At a slight distance from the town centre, this is the headquarters of Laurence and Cédric. She is the chef and produces tasty cuisine in step with the seasons. While he is a trained sommelier and chooses the best wines (notably Bordeaux) to accompany the dishes concocted by his partner. A duo that works wonders!

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. This inviting restaurant in the heart of a winery is appealingly appointed with contemporary objets d'art and exotic wood furnishings and overlooks the Cévennes. The perfect foil to sample contemporary bistronomic cuisine: duck magret, spicy jus, roast melon in elderflower; panacotta flavoured with lavender honey, apricots and a dairy mousse. Most of the produce is local and seasonal, like the lovely fruity olive oil which is produced on the estate. A fine list of wines from the estate and nearby vineyards, and an impressive selection of wines by the glass.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. In this friendly neo-bistro, the menu gets straight down to business - it is concise, to the point and stars dishes that are as hearty and unpretentious as they are delicious, while the wine list showcases regional (but not only) producers. The chef’s consummate technical know-how shines through in his perfect mastery of cooking times and techniques, while the desserts are fully equal to those of any high-flying pastry chef. A warm welcome and slick, smiling service. If they are full, try L'Escapade Danton next-door.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. From the terrace or through the restaurant's picture windows, the landscape mesmerises and fascinates, as you admire the jaw-dropping panoramic view over the grounds and the rooftops of historic Gourdon. Justine and Benoît Mouly showcase regional produce and tableware by local artisans. The food celebrates the region’s traditions, courtesy of creative notes and well-judged flavours: courgettes, strawberries and elderflower; Borrèze trout confit in olive oil, gazpacho of green peas; Salviac foie gras served like nougat with apricots and walnuts.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Within the city walls, a handful of tables set up on the pavement; inside, a compact, contemporary space with a corrugated iron wall section and the menu featuring on enamelled tiles: this house (doma in Slavonic) catches the eye and whets the appetite! Colourful dishes that showcase the season.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Domus (Latin for "home") is presided over by a dream team of two chefs and a front-of-house manager who earned their stripes in star restaurants and upmarket bistros (the chefs met at La Table du Connétable in Chantilly). They take full advantage of seasonal ingredients and produce from Sologne to concoct an intriguing programme: semi-cooked foie gras, mushroom seasoning; smoked Sologne sturgeon, pickled kohlrabi; slow-baked cod, frothy tomato mousse and basil-flavoured roast courgette. When you now add sensible prices, you will quickly understand why it is often fully booked.

Bib Gourmand • Asian. In this friendly "Asian canteen", sisters Katia and Tatiana Levha offer simple dishes of mixed inspiration (China, Philippines, Thailand etc) in an upgraded "street food" vein. This is cooking that is full of character, with pronounced flavours, and often deliciously spicy. A fun experience and tasty fare.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. This restaurant is housed in a 16C building on a cobbled street in the town centre. The decor is chock-a-block with charming details: a large fireplace, stone window frames, exposed beams and colossal wooden branches from which the light fixtures hang. Your discreet hostess (who is also the pastry chef) and the chef, who can be seen fully focused and hard at work in the open kitchen, extend a smiling welcome to their guests. The seasons dictate the menu and the lunchtime lineup is a steal.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. Epona, Gallic goddess of travellers and abundance, watches over this welcoming establishment, conveniently located between Valence and Montélimar in the Ardèche. In the evenings and at weekends, peruse the set menu (without options) and the short, appetising seasonal à la carte menu. Rustic and warm, as he himself defines it, the chef's cuisine is rooted in the local terroir. With real jus and pretty presentations, his dishes show a deft touch: cold courgette velouté and gravlax salmon; confit pork belly and seasonal vegetables. At lunchtime, a daily menu only is served.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Venetian chef Matteo Vianello chalked up experience in the kitchens of Alain Ducasse and Jean-François Piège. Now established nearer the sea, he has dedicated his small contemporary bistro to the island of Sant Erasmo (home of the famous purple artichoke). He has certainly not lost his touch, revisiting the classics in mouth-watering dishes that convincingly draw on Breton and Italian scores – for instance, ravioles of snails, sweet garlic stock, roast buckwheat or tiramisu.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Tucked away in a narrow pedestrian street in the city centre, this restaurant is run by siblings Maxime (in the kitchen) and Estelle Besnier (front of house). In a pleasant, colourful space (white beams, whitewashed walls, mirrors, stone and brick fireplace, original hardwood floors), this chef has a sure touch, preparing dishes with precision, generosity and a sense of indulgence: chicken oyster with cream of mushroom; hake, potatoes, chorizo and samphire; coconut, kiwi and sorrel. The lunchtime set menu is excellent value for money. A truly joyful dining experience.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. In this mountainous area on the edge of the Basque Country, this traditional establishment is simply charming. It is also the repository of a family history going back four generations. Ximun has now taken up the mantle, serving delicious traditional cuisine, characterised by generous portions and tasty well-matured broths and jus. The ingredients are local, and the suppliers are duly listed on the menu. This is comforting fare (think duck raviolo, mix of mushrooms, langoustine bisque; "Axuria" lamb: pressed lamb, macaroni gratin, Xipister, lamb jus), to enjoy in the bright, somewhat rustic-style interior with a superb view of the Pyrenees!

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. It is clear to see that chef Gabriel Gras Fernandez and pastry chef Jorice Sardain are passionate about food. In their compact restaurant on a pedestrian street in Montmartre (where more and more interesting restaurants are popping up), they work in tandem to create their clever take on seasonal cuisine in the from of carefully crafted dishes: oyster mushrooms, coffee sabayon, parsley, brioche; corn-fed chicken, butternut squash, endive, orange; and a stunning chocolate dessert with an array of textures.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. A stone's throw from Montrouge town hall, this place whose terrace is a hit in fine weather, is a breath of fresh air on the local restaurant scene. At the helm, Cécile Farnier and Hélia Maouch, both trained at the Ferrandi hospitality school, have devised a short – and constantly evolving – menu: shredded fish with potato espuma, fish with a tangy sauce vierge, refreshing seasonal desserts. Quality ingredients, on-point cuissons, service with a smile… It's no surprise it already has a following of regulars.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. The epitome of a friendly neighbourhood bistro steeped in an irresistible buzzy vibe. Fezi means "home-made" in Brittany's Gallo language. Cédric Bruneau, the young owner-chef, prepares tasty, straightforward, market-fresh cuisine, favouring regional ingredients. Natural and biodynamic wines.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. At their spot facing the ramparts, this professional couple are making a big splash with delicious traditional cuisine that remains true to the ingredients: salmon tartare tacos with guacamole, pico de gallo and crème fraîche; minced chicken, rice noodles, coriander, ginger, garlic and soy sauce; peanut and chocolate parfait, salted butter caramel and vanilla ice cream. A pleasant location and smiling bistro service!

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. In the heart of a picturesque village in the Cher valley, close to the Château de Chenonceau, this friendly, contemporary bistro treats diners to fresh seasonal cuisine curated by a talented chef. Mickaël Renard honed his skills in top establishments of the likes of the Hostellerie de Levernois (at the time of Jean Crotet), the Côte d'Or in Saulieu (alongside Bernard Loiseau) and the Auberge des Templiers. Today: tataki of bonito, bulgur, avocado purée and curcuma-flavoured Caesar sauce; steak with Cajun sauce, baby potatoes and button mushrooms. The regulars know that the menu changes frequently and the place is often packed at lunchtime, all the more so because of the very reasonable prices!

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. Johann (front of house) and Collis (chef) spoil their diners rotten in this culinary landmark established in a pretty 17C village built by Cardinal Richelieu. The period varnished wooden façade leads into a warm, friendly bistro interior that is perfectly suited to the establishment’s focus on good food and good vibes. The chef keeps things simple with a regularly-changing menu of wholesome dishes that are firmly rooted in the seasons, albeit spiced up with the odd exotic touch, such as an Asian-inspired guinea fowl raviole. Similar care is lavished on the knockout desserts.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. Chef Vincent Seviller has come up trumps in this establishment near the railway station. He invites diners on a bistronomic journey in a tasteful, modern setting. An experienced and talented craftsman, each dish is artfully presented, flavoursome and balanced. The lunchtime menu is chalked up on a slate, but more elaborate in the evening.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. On the village square, Glaz – a Breton word evoking the sea's shifting hues of green, blue, and grey – strikes a balance between old and new: wrought iron, earthenware and rugs sit alongside wood panelling, copper and plants. Tanios Nakhlé Cerruti presides in the kitchen; Émeline Macé oversees the dining room and wine cellar. Born in Saint-Malo to an Italian mother and Lebanese father, the chef draws on his heritage and his travels to craft precise fusion bistronomy dishes with their roots in French culinary tradition. The menu showcases local ingredients, many organic, skilfully elevated with spices.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. At a remove from the town, this sprawling 19C building, a renovated boarding school, is home to a spacious restaurant done out in a contemporary style. Chef Aurélien Moutarlier delivers seasonal dishes that draw on mostly local produce and display flashes of creativity. Lovely quiet terrace.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. We fell head over heels with this bistro! The chef’s slate menu unveils a fresh, indulgent take on nostalgic dishes that will make you drool: pâté en croûte; calf's head with gribiche sauce; saddle of rabbit, mashed potato, mustard sauce; game in season, without forgetting a vegetarian offering. Fine choice of sensibly priced tipples from Anjou and elsewhere, most of which are organic and natural and an impressive lineup of chartreuse liqueurs. Bookings recommended.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. This bistro nurtures its authentic vintage look, courtesy of banquette seating, mirrors and Art deco-style posters. Patrick Comte is at the helm, rolling out his tasty take on traditional seasonal dishes: snail persillade; egg bourguignonne and a buttery golden turnip; Angus faux-filet steak, gratin dauphinois with maroilles and béarnaise sauce; a Paris-Brest-style éclair with hazelnut ice cream… Indulgent cooking that hits the spot every time!

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. On the banks of the Grosne in a town steeped in culture and heritage (abbey, national stud farm and a race course), this hostelry specialises in first-class seasonal fare: asparagus in vinaigrette, low-temperature egg and a frothy espuma of parmesan or lamb cooked two ways – the saddle is stuffed with wild garlic and the shank is prepared in a curcuma flavoured nem. Now add a fine selection of wines by the glass, a bright conservatory overlooking the river, warm, cheerful service and a good night’s sleep in the cosy guestrooms – what’s not to like?

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Chef Damien Le Quillec named his restaurant after his two grandfathers. In this unusual setting – previously a garage, cleverly converted into a contemporary loft – he channels his talent into crafting ambitious dishes that appeal to the modern palate. Meanwhile, he has opened a convivial little bistro next door – Numéro 100, where he serves bistronomy fare in a home-from-home atmosphere.

Bib Gourmand • Japanese. Confit pork belly with ginger sauce, sushi, maki, tempura… From the pared-back dining room, customers have an unhampered view of the Japanese chef as he rustles up refined dishes that bring together French and Japanese cuisine. Fine sake selection. A huge hit in Dole!

Bib Gourmand • Italian. Located in the historic town, this revamped bistro, which sports a smart, cosy interior appointed in midnight blue velvet seats and matching walls, sings an ode to Italy. The youthful chef signs an uncluttered, spontaneous Italian-inspired score in a bistronomic register: tonnato of courgettes; confit of pork belly, orzotto of spinach and pistachio pesto; pan di Limone, creamy lemon and raspberry mascarpone. Reasonably priced concise menu at lunchtime, more ambitious in the evenings.

Bib Gourmand • Chinese. In the heart of Paris's Chinatown, this Chinese restaurant is popular with many people from the local Asian community, who have adopted it as their canteen. In a room that is always full (the service runs non-stop from lunch to dinner, and is fast-paced, to say the least!), they serve fine Cantonese specialities, including crispy pork and Peking duck. A truly authentic meal, without breaking the bank! You can't book here; you just have to go and wait to be seated.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. On the main road to Brive-la-Gaillarde, you are bound to notice this Corrèze-style building with its characteristic local stone walls and slate roof. You will immediately feel at home inside, thanks to the soothing decor (wooden floors, oak tables, leather- and fabric-upholstered seating) and the beaming smile of the laid-back chef. He cooks by instinct, devising blind menus out of locally sourced ingredients. His delicious dishes, such as Limousin veal belly, smoked beetroot, carrot ketchup and mashed parsnips, lack neither colour nor precision.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. After spending almost 15 years in Chile, Michel Moutroustéguy and his partner decided to return to the chef’s homeland. In the peaceful Basque countryside, their table is open for lunch on weekdays and on Saturday evenings. The simply presented blackboard menu reveals a concise selection of sensibly priced dishes in a market-fresh vein. The chef seeks to highlight local seasonal produce, rolling out his know-how gleaned all over the world: sauces and gravies that pack a punch, consummate craftsmanship and high-flying seasonings. From starter to dessert, everything is spot on!

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. This game of skittles in Cajarc is on a roll under the supervision of Grégory Dattiches, a young chef from Lot with an ironclad CV. In a lively neo-bistro, he crafts spot-on inspired dishes ranging from gravlax of trout and a stew of thinly sliced beef cooked in lemon confit and chimichurri to roast monkfish in a saté sauce with verbena-flavoured roast apricots and a house sorbet adding the final flourish to this banquet. Food in the zeitgeist packed in forthright flavours that hits the spot every time. Love at first bite.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Having settled in his native region after several years spent in high - end Parisian establishments, Christophe Marchais is bringing a dose of culinary flair to Châteauroux. He prepares tasty and creative dishes, inspired by a building steeped in history. The best restaurant in the city.

Bib Gourmand • Korean. After various stints in kitchens in Australia and France, Korean chef Esu Lee opened Jip – which means "home". In his tiny restaurant with minimalist decor, diners sit cheek to jowl at the counter. He creates a nuanced dialogue between France and Korea: eryngii mushrooms with jalapeño and sauce Béarnaise; duxelles mandu with gochujang; octopus stew with sambal and spring onion sabayon. This signature French-Korean cuisine is a reflection of the chef's intelligence and personality.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Set in a small village deep in the Charolais countryside, Jeanne-Louise and Kevin (J+K) jointly craft cuisine that is very much in tune with the times, with the occasional nods to Italy. Painstakingly selected ingredients with a soft spot for vegetables: for example, a line-fished, chunky fillet of cod, spring veggies and a stock of Burgundy miso; apple clafoutis served with whipped vanilla-laced chantilly cream. Jaw-dropping lineup of pre- and post-dinner beverages, including a few gems from Italy’s vineyards.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Not far from rue de Cîteaux, this restaurant in an apothecary-style shop dating back to the 1900s is not merely aesthetically pleasing. It serves modern cuisine packed with quality ingredients: seared scallops with parsnip cream and parsnip crisps, stuffed breast of veal from the Basque Country… The chef knows how to draw out flavours with a generous touch, and the service is attentive.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine, Alsatian. Local folklore is celebrated by waiters in traditional costume and a characteristic wooden Vosges decor. In a lively, yet sophisticated atmosphere, you will be treated to tasty, copious regional preparations: sauerkraut, veal kidneys, sweetbread and bouchées à la reine. The food is as heart-warming as the rooms, the grounds and the hotel’s magnificent spa facilities.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. In the heart of the old town of Pau, twin brothers, one a chef and the other a pastry chef, have successfully launched their family business in a modern bistro-style setting laid out over two floors, complete with a pastry counter and tea room. The menu is a real draw, and also represents great value for money. This talented pair bring a touch of magic to their apparently simple dishes, drawing on sweet and sour jus and a medley of condiments to enhance their ingenious and generous, yet always light cuisine. Think confit pork belly, barbecue jus, pickled vegetables, radishes, polenta croquette.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Chef Frédéric Michel opened this delightful restaurant in his home town with his wife Manuella. He cooks up fresh and bold dishes, precisely cooked and with well-defined flavours, relying as much as possible on short supply chains (local fish and market gardening, Normandy beef).

Bib Gourmand • Middle Eastern. Previously cohorts at Miles (now closed), Gil Elad and Ronan Cadoret strike again! In this small bistro complete with a counter, they serve up a veritable feast of small plates celebrating the flavours and spices of the Middle East. Their dishes make good use of the locally sourced produce at hand (Landes free-range chicken marinated in sumac with a spicy chicken jus; shish barak stuffed with porcini and seasonal chanterelles). Other highlights include a wide variety of delicious house-baked breads (eg Yemeni kubaneh) and some excellent desserts, including a Lebanese turnover filled with a date and dried fruit mixture, accompanied by a tasty pistachio ice cream. The short wine list has a penchant for natural wines, in particular Mediterranean labels.

Bib Gourmand • Japanese. When a Bib Gourmand chef from Tokyo arrives in Paris, the first thing he does is open a restaurant, tantalising and bewitching our senses. Diners will sample Japanese produce and genuine udon, made in front of the diner. Natural, additive - free ingredients, most of which are imported direct from the Land of the Rising Sun. Healthy, wholesome and succulent.

Bib Gourmand • Japanese. In a decor dripping in nods to urban Tokyo (lanterns, fake street fronts and a soundtrack of street noises), the visitor is transported to Japan. Liquid (shio) or thick (shoyu) broths, made from free-range poultry and artisanal Shibanuma soy sauce, simmer on the stove. The ramen, made with wheat that is grown and ground on site, unveils incredible depth of texture and taste. The house speciality is kurugoma ramen made with black sesame seed and pata negra pork. Bright, bubbly and bustling, this venue is steeped in an authentic Japanese ramen-ya vibe. Avoid peak times, when it can be packed to the seams.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Before modernising these premises, Julie (restaurant floor and wine) and Lucas (kitchen) met at Régis and Jacques Marcon's restaurant, a benchmark if ever there was one. At L'Acte 2, they are now welcoming customers of their own into this small, contemporary dining space. Slow-cooked egg, cauliflower cream, grilled onion emulsion, baby spinach and peanuts; guinea fowl cooked two ways, pearl barley risotto, wilted carrot tops and mushrooms, jus corsé: he goes all out in his endeavours to create well-crafted dishes.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Julien Gleize set up his restaurant on this pleasant square in the heart of the Cité des Papes in June 2014. The chef looks totally fulfilled as he works away in the kitchens, composing hearty, cleverly devised dishes, in which seasonal products are nicely showcased.

Bib Gourmand • Corsican. This large farm in a somewhat remote and picturesque food-producing valley of Balagne is home to olive groves and a vegetable garden and also raises cattle. The owner, a fiery character, pulls out all the stops to make guests feel welcome in this simple, rustic restaurant, whose vibe is poised between a sheepfold and an open-air tavern. She puts all the farm's produce to good use: traditional Corsican cuisine is served here, packed in gutsy flavours (cabbage stuffed with veal; quenelles of brocciu and poached Swiss chard in tomato sauce; stufatu of veal with olives and roast polenta). The menu-carte is very good value and it is easy to see why the spot, a favourite with the locals, is always busy. The service is attentive and efficient.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine, Farm to table. Mathieu in the dining room and Rémi in the kitchen have poured their love of produce and good vibes into this buzzy town-centre hangout. Whether it is beneath the shade of plane trees in summer or in the dinky dining room in winter, you will sample up-to-the-minute bistro nosh that stars local produce and well-judged creative notes, without straying too far from traditional roots as the textbook technique and whole roasts frequently confirm. The admirable selection of wines by the glass (and the bottle), which is both savvy yet affordable, goes down a treat with the evening carte blanche menu. A firm fixture of the local culinary scene.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. L'Air de Famille makes for an appealing place to eat with its period decor (vintage advertising posters, original counter) and unpretentious atmosphere. Tradition and the seasons dictate the menu here, with particular attention paid to flavour combinations and sauces. Calf's head with ravigote sauce and other classics regularly feature… and they boast a well-stocked wine list!

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Picture a modern, buzzy hangout popular with local foodies for its sensibly priced honest food and its particularly enticing lunch menu, something of a bargain for Nice. Think pork in a tom kha kai stock, beef confit in peas and carrots or upside-down-style apple tartlet – good food that ticks all the boxes. Invariably fully booked for the first service, it is much easier to find a table come 2pm. Only open for dinner on Friday and Saturday.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. This restaurant just behind the cathedral is known for its market-fresh cuisine that is full of flavour, flawlessly prepared and delivers on its promises. Examples include house-made ravioli with ricotta, spinach and mandarin beurre blanc; cacio e pepe-style celeriac "tagliatelle" with pecorino espuma and breaded egg. Ever popular, not least thanks to its eater-friendly prices.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. L'Alicanta has been on the scene for a while, perched on the banks of the River Jonte, in the exceptional setting of the Gorges du Tarn. The chef puts in a solid performance, his cooking is replete with distinct flavours and his dishes are brilliantly assembled. Everything here is home-made and the menu changes with every season. Absolutely delicious!

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Tomato and mozzarella puff pastry tart, green tomato sorbet and basil vinaigrette; fillet of sea bream, vegetable tian and a warm caper vinaigrette; apricot compote with vanilla, semolina biscuit and pistachio ice cream… The delicious dishes served by this charming couple exude Mediterranean vibes. An excellent, wallet-friendly place!

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. This hidden gem is nestled in a village at the confluence of two rivers – the Aveyron and the Viaur. A contemporary take on an artists' bistro, it boasts artwork on the walls and affordable prices. Working solo in his small, glass-walled kitchen, chef Arnaud Ronxin crafts ingenious dishes with the mission of showcasing seasonal produce. Think oven-roasted veal with confit potatoes and chanterelles, or lamb trotters with a red wine sauce. The more ambitious multi-course evening set menu is different every evening.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. The arrival of a new couple at the helm, who worked for many years alongside the former owners, has changed nothing in terms of the establishment’s concept or philosophy: regional produce is cast in the leading role (Bayeux pork, Normandy oysters, Carrouges gruyere) of the appetising lineup. On the corner of Rue St Laurent and Rue des Bouchers, the setting is also as appealing as ever with exposed stone, painted beams and soft lighting. What’s not to like?

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. The chef-patron at L'Antre Amis brings passion to his cooking. Using the finest seasonal ingredients, he composes a short up-to-the-minute menu, which also includes traditional dishes (pâté en croûte made with game and foie gras; cod loin fillet in a pistachio crust, spinach and ricotta cannelloni), plus tapas-style dishes for sharing. To be accompanied by your pick from over 500 different wines. Pleasant contemporary decor and terrace on a quiet street.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine, Regional Cuisine. This family-run establishment with its pleasant, recently renovated contemporary interior continues to fete local produce and tradition (think: Alsace head cheese, frogs' legs, chicken cordon bleu with bargkass)… but the younger generation is coaxing it into the modern era with more contemporary recipes and presentation. Expect flavour, indulgence and attentive service! Well-maintained guestrooms make this the perfect place to stay, too.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. Settle at your table in this bright, modern interior and experience the talent of Thierry Chouin. This Breton chef may have a particular penchant for fish - based fare, but that doesn't mean he snubs lamb and potatoes. He fetes the ingredients with nicely turned - out dishes, each a lovely homage to tradition.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. The tree mentioned in the name of this restaurant could well be a genealogical one, so closely is its history bound up with that of the Koenig family. Now run by the fifth generation of this family, the restaurant serves specialities from Alsace, which are accompanied by good regional wines.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine, Mediterranean Cuisine. On the left bank of the Maine, the chef cooks up flavoursome recipes that blend tradition and the essence of the sun-drenched Mediterranean: croquetta di miale and a herby mayonnaise; shank of confit veal with Milanese risotto… A festive vibe, a crisp, enticing lineup and invariably packed to the seams. Meals are served in a trendy, industrial brasserie interior or alfresco, on the terrace.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Headed up by a chef whose enthusiasm is contagious, this place is an ode to the seasons. Dishes are crafted from market-fresh ingredients and the menu-carte changes regularly – smoked haddock terrine, burrata, herby beetroot and devilled eggs; steamed saithe, parpadelle, braised fennel and fish soup; white chocolate and yoghurt cream, rum-soaked banana pulp, almond cake and salted butter caramel ice cream. Fresh ingredients, recipes made from scratch, regional wines: a restaurant that cannot fail to win you over.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. Imagine a small cheerful bistro-style dining room whose shelves are laden with fine deli produce, a pretty conservatory and a small terrace. The scene is set to sample tasty food in which tradition is cleverly paired with wayfaring influences: Asian and North-African notes flank the Fujiyama oyster (house specialty), the catch of the day and a seasonal vegetable tajine, or “A night in Essaouira” dessert based on dates, fresh dairy ice cream and honey. Delightful.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. Xavier Giraudet, chef at La Robe, has opened a second establishment in a bistro vein. Diners know they are in safe hands here as they tuck into traditional, flavourful and generous cuisine: succulent and aromatic pâté en croûte, melt-in-the-mouth black pudding with mashed potatoes, and a dessert inspired by the Paris-Brest, which is as indulgent as they come. You get up from your table with a smile on your face and your finances intact, thanks to the affordable set menus at lunch and dinner. A bright and modern setting; friendly service from the cheerful waitstaff.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Chef Fabrice Rodot is a food lover, and he proves it with his dishes, which feature local and seasonal ingredients. He has a perfect grasp of the classics, and this cosy restaurant with rustic touches is a lovely setting in which to eat: cauliflower in a brioche crust, mousseline cream; organic veal, peas and carrots, sauce Périgueux-style jus; crêpes Suzette flambéed on a pedestal table. Not forgetting the excellent house-made bread! In fine weather, head for a table by the fountain on the terrace.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. After honing his talents around southwest France, Flavien Valère has decided to treat Langon to his culinary flair. He knows his stuff, no doubt about that: impeccable cooking techniques, perfect seasonings, premium produce and carefully crafted recipes – everything is from scratch, to our delight! Eater-friendly priced lunchtime menu. Bookings advisable.

Bib Gourmand • Farm to table. The chef proposes neoteric, distinctive cuisine, whose mainstay is wild herbs, which he learned to know through a local herb picker. Goosefoot, wild lemon balm, purslane, mugwort... The culinary score is poetic and rich in flavour, illustrated by Ventoux pork with helichrysum-flavoured poichichade. Consider us smitten!

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. On the banks of the River Loire, this restaurant is run by a local chef, whose trademark is delicious market-fresh cuisine. He serves an affordable set menu at lunchtime and a more elaborate monthly set menu. He carefully sources his ingredients, giving local produce pride of place: foie gras from Domaine de Limagne, trout caught in the Oron, beef from a farmer-butcher in Renaison, Roanne saffron and organic vegetables from Arfeuilles. A lovely cheese trolley is presented in the dining room.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. In this picturesque village bistro complete with a wine shop, chef Lionel Cotentin (what a coincidence!) draws on his strong culinary background and premium local produce – organic market garden vegetables, small-scale fishing – to whip up a concise, seasonal menu. The cuisine is modern, meticulous and forthright: home-smoked mackerel, stracciatella and basil-flavoured olive oil sauce; loin of ling, Carnaroli risotto and beurre blanc. Cheerful, spot on service and sensible prices.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine, Creative. The ground floor of this 19C sous-préfecture is now home to a fashionably appointed restaurant that welcomes with a cheerful vibe. At the helm, Ludwik Crosnier, with stints in some prestigious establishments under his belt, signs a seasonal score depicted by local ingredients, stellar technique and delicately balanced flavours. Claire cheerfully and attentively supervises the front-of-house, adding a gracious flourish to this fine dining experience.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Not far from Hazebrouck, this Auberge was once a tannery then a barroom in full-blown ‘ch’ti’ tradition, before it morphed into this friendly inn, with a focus on seasonal produce and Flemish roots courtesy of new takes on classic local recipes (Welsh, carbonade). The menu features some surprising combinations, like langoustine with haddock and green peas. Hats off to chef Antonin, who is also a wine buff and thus an excellent source of wine tips.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine, Traditional Cuisine. In a charming village above the River Saône, this restaurant has a traditional decor (exposed stones and beams, large colourful frescoes). Guillaume Laublanc, a native of these parts, sets about cooking his bistronomy-style cuisine with locally sourced ingredients and infectious enthusiasm. Cooked at low temperature, the Bresse chicken (from Johan Morand's farm) stuffed with morels and vin jaune cream is sure to win you over!

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. Perched in the Cantal mountains, this pleasingly rustic farmstead is the fruit of a beautiful family saga spanning six generations. Tuck into generous traditional cuisine rooted in the local terroir – featuring the legendary truffade, served with every dish, and the family recipe for tripoux à la tomate. All dishes are sincere and precise. And then there is the trolley of regional cheeses, with Salers, produced just a few metres away, taking pride of place.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. In this charming inn on the edge of the forest, the Basque Country – where the chef is from – meets fine produce from the Ardennes. The result is delicious, skilfully made dishes, such as piquillo peppers stuffed with cod brandade and fish soup, or lamb confit with piperade. Generous and indulgent cuisine awaits!

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. Authenticity is the name of the game in this Landes inn that specialises in hearty, wholesome food, far removed from fads and fashions. The menu showcases the local terroir – beef from the Fermes de Chalosse network of farms, fattened free-range duck, milk-fed veal, pure sheep's-milk cheese from a village shepherd and additive-free house-made sourdough bread. An open sandwich with warm pork shank and ear terrine, served with an orange and endive salad, or calf sweetbreads in Jurançon wine served in a skillet: the generous portions are a throwback to a bygone era. Warm welcome and attentive, slick service. What's not to like?

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. This restaurant on the road to Monts Jura is invariably busy! Chef Romain Blanc, who hails from the region, has no shortage of talent or ideas when it comes to cooking seasonal local produce: fish from Lake Geneva or nearby fish farms, pork and poultry from the surrounding area, local market gardeners and a herb garden. He also demonstrates a flair for preparing jus and a mastery of cooking processes, and makes a lot from scratch (including ice cream and bread). Bargain prices and service with a smile from Chloé, who will guide you through the nice selection of wines from independent winegrowers.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. L’Aubépine is flourishing in the hands of a youthful researcher, now on a quest for flavour. Chef Manuel is a staunch advocate of locally sourced produce, whose ingredients he seeks to exalt, respecting both their texture and nutritional value. Everything is made in house and the menu changes weekly depending on the market.

Bib Gourmand • Creative. Solid oak tables, custom-made tableware and a warm welcome… This snug restaurant is the domain of Manuel Godet, who harnesses his impeccable technical skills to craft creative dishes that shine a spotlight on local produce, sometimes with original flavour combinations. Examples include braised pork cheeks with Madiran wine and orange zest, served with textures of pear and purple sweet potato mousseline and finished with a rich, concentrated jus. Simple lunch deal, more ambitious fare in the evening.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. This old bakery has been transformed into a smart, contemporary restaurant that sports a minimalist vibe. Chef Aurélien Jousseaume earned his stripes in Michelin-starred kitchens with the likes of Etchebest, Guy Savoy and Guy Martin. To-ing and fro-ing between his open kitchen and the restaurant floor, the chef, who is clearly having a ball, takes the orders and presents the dishes himself. His delicious seasonal cuisine showcases his flair for creating remarkable sauces and jus: creamy jus of trout roe, sabayon enhanced with smoked salt, watercress and horseradish sauce, veal jus with lovage.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. This beautifully restored old barn has retained its homely rustic appeal. The chef, whose CV boasts establishments of the calibre of Jacques Maximin and La Grenouillère, conjures up delicate traditional fare. The organic local (Aurillac) beef is sometimes carved in front of diners, as are some fish. The menu includes home-made patés and saucisson and a splendid cheese trolley. Let’s not forget the open fire in winter and the inviting terrace in summertime. What’s not to like?

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. In a trendy bistro interior, you will sample good food crafted by an enthusiastic chef. The long list of local producers with whom he works is emblematic of his mindset. A few examples: a salad of razor clams and lentils from Trept; mallard duck cooked two ways and garnished with braised chicory and an offal-flavoured gravy; Chartreuse-flavoured baba…

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Nestled at the foot of the castle, this beautiful tuffeau-stone house sports charming dining rooms (parquet floors, exposed rafters and bare stone walls) and peaceful little patios. Chef Anthony Vaillant crafts food in the zeitgeist, jazzed up by a scattering of deft creative touches: start with a medley of asparagus and green peas, enhanced by a citrus fruit flavoured dressing followed by fabulously fresh cod flanked by a curry sauce and velvety mashed potato. Extremely attentive service. Regional tipples take pride of place on the wine list. An enjoyable culinary experience!

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. A butcher's son born on the Île d'Oléron, chef Benjamin Girard has chosen to focus on fish and seafood. In this narrow modern dining space done out in white and blue hues, the delicious dishes with creative touches keep on coming: mackerel half-cooked with a blowtorch, grilled watermelon and tomato water; halibut with a langoustine foam and blackberries; black forest gateau-style "explosive cherry" dessert. Eater-friendly prices and an enticing wine list with plenty of organic options.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. In the Ségala region, nestling in a village that is famous for its Cistercian church, this recently renovated little restaurant is accommodated in a half-timbered house. A well-travelled couple of industry professionals, Guilhem and Léonie, chef and pastry chef respectively, put a skilful spin on traditional fare such as shredded shoulder of lamb served tajine-style or, for dessert, citrus millefeuille with caramel and blood orange sorbet. The well-balanced and appealing menu they have come up with abounds with fresh and colourful dishes – plus it's excellent value for money. In short, they've got it all figured out. Delightful terrace laid out in the shade of an albizia and a magnolia.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Not far from the Cirque de Navacelles, in a small village on the southern edge of the limestone plateau that is the Causse du Larzac, Pricillia Lebon's restaurant is housed in a converted inn. Beneath the stone vaults, the inviting, cosy decor reflects the endearing personality of a chef who has come to this beautiful, isolated setting to cook. The surprise set menu celebrates the Larzac area, with ingredients sourced mainly via short supply chains (not least from local market gardens), as well as from mushroom and plant picking. Plants reign supreme in the intuitive, light and aromatic dishes. The dessert is a tribute to the chef's Malgasy origins, with a sweet potato cream spiked with vanilla. Vegetarian options are also available. A unique and authentic place.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Chef Olivier Lamard crafts a modern culinary score that draws on the terroir of Alsace: house-made foie gras in gewurztraminer; guinea fowl with velvety parsnips and mushrooms; upside-down plum pie, tonka bean-laced mascarpone cream and vanilla ice cream. Savvy, deft craftsmanship and premium produce, some of which from the chef’s granddad’s garden: it ticks all the boxes!

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. This inconspicuous restaurant in the centre of town is actually home to a culinary powerhouse. The Japanese chef, who was sous-chef to Bruno Cirino at Hostellerie Jérôme, masterfully crafts his own addictive take on Mediterranean cuisine, putting a Japanese spin on locally sourced produce. Thanks to ultra-fresh ingredients, spot-on cooking and well-judged seasoning, everything comes together beautifully: eg artichoke hearts à la barigoule with prosciutto chips; salmon tataki with marinated vegetables, or sirloin steak with yuzu kosho. The terrace, partly covered by an awning, looks out onto a pedestrianised street.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Trained by some of the best (Alain Dutournier, Jean-Michel Lorrain, Alain Ducasse), chef Julien Lainé crafts enticing food that surfs between tradition (leek vinaigrette; veal vol-au-vent; chocolate fondant cake and cocoa sorbet) and modernity (carpaccio of croaker and blood orange dressing; pan-seared line-caught seabass with a haddock emulsion). In a seaside resort such as Pornic, this eatery with two colourful little dining areas and an open kitchen is most welcome.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. An enthusiastic young couple is at the helm of this family - run inn on the village square. In the kitchen, Simon hops between traditional (eggs in red wine sauce, marbled, seasoned ham, coq au vin) and more modern creations; Maude ensures that her guests’ every need is met in the dining room. Definitely to be recommended.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. This modest establishment at a remove from the city centre, whose name is a nod to its past vocation as a weaver's house, boasts an inviting interior of exposed stone and wood panelling – the perfect backdrop for contemporary cuisine made with top-notch seasonal ingredients. The short menu is beautifully presented and original, with some unexpected combinations, such as pollock with a helianthus medley, grapefruit and watercress sauce. The food is truly delicious, and that goes for the desserts, too. Don't miss out!

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. On the ground floor of a contemporary hotel, the entrance framed by birch trunks leads to a stylish dining space done out with anthracite feature walls, red banquettes and white seats. The modern, refined and flavoursome brasserie cuisine includes dishes such as Dubarry velouté, focaccia croutons and peanut oil with Espelette pepper; sautéed prawns, piquillo pepper and chorizo risotto, sauce armoricaine; melt-in-the-middle moelleux au chocolat, Armagnac cream and caramelised hazelnuts. Pleasant terrace overlooking the main square.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. This brasserie in the heart of the village sits just outside the indoor market, serving delicious traditional dishes that scrupulously respect the fundamentals of French cuisine. Made with seasonal produce, the set menu – available at both lunch and dinner – changes every week. The blackboard features mouth-watering dishes: pork and poultry terrine with pink peppercorns; pollock steak with potatoes dressed with parsley and a Parmesan sauce; a custard tart with Madagascar vanilla that won first prize for the "best flan pâtissier in France".

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. On a side street of an iconic picturesque village of the Côte Fleurie, the establishment of the Tougard couple, open since the early 2000s, is fronted by a discreet facade. In a snug stylish interior, the chef crafts a score that cleverly slaloms between tradition and modernity. If we were to cite a single example, it would be his talented new take on calf’s head. Flavours and aromas that hit the spot every time. Not to be missed!

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. From one year to the next and from one location to another, local chef-owner Michaël Ruat has been regaling the lucky diners of Puy-en-Velay. The interior sports natural materials and designer details (glazed wine cellar). The food forges a culinary course between regional Haute Loire ingredients (green lentils, Fin Gras du Mézenc beef) and a very modern repertoire of dishes (bluefin tuna, grilled watermelon and feta, sauce vierge and chorizo Bellota).

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Is the restaurant a grocer’s or is it the other way round? Whatever, this ebullient, two-in-one business quietly feeds us well, which is all that matters! Mathieu (in charge of savoury dishes) and Clémentine (desserts) curate a splendid, seasonal menu that stars regional produce: organic market garden veg from down the road, free-range meat and herbs from the garden. All the tableware (crockery, knife rests, carafes) is the handiwork of artisans established in this thriving pottery village. Their unpretentious eatery is a hit with the locals, which is always a good sign. Beware, 20 seats only, so book before you come. An affably French establishment offering a taste of rural life in times past!

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Luck has nothing to do with the current reputation of this downtown venue, facing Jean Jaurès Fountain, as the darling of the town’s discerning epicureans. The stripped-back interior sports a distinctly Scandinavian feel, which given the chef’s Swedish origins is hardly a surprise. On the culinary front, he deploys his undisputed talent, adding a new twist to French classics and conjuring up enticing recipes in tune with the era: generous portions, well crafted and oozing with flavour. The intelligent wine list and crack table staff, as professional as they are friendly, add the final flourish.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. This spruce, endearing bistro on the main square of Illies is smoothly and passionately run by former Top Chef contestant, Christophe Pirotais and his partner Julie Dieudonné. Their gutsy indulgent cuisine is unveiled in an inspired, big-boned surprise menu, illustrated by a delicate pannacotta of white asparagus with radish-flavoured ice cream or a fillet of seabream escorted by chickpea fritters and a creamy jus of smoked herring roe. The welcome is warm and cheerful and the service is as smooth as a silky bearnaise sauce. Lovely rear patio for alfresco dining in fine weather.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. This restaurant in a peaceful village in the Corrèze hinterland charms with its tranquil setting and view of the Corrèze valley (especially from the terrace). The bright dining room with a festive atmosphere is the playground of chef Thomas Ceaux and his partner Pauline Gane, who works front of house. The chef cooks up seasonal cuisine that showcases the local terroir: Limousin veal, creamy peas and chorizo; crispy puffs with red berries, vanilla mascarpone cream, and strawberry and raspberry sorbet from Tulle. A place with a loyal following.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. After many years with the Bocuse group, chef Luc Abadie has set up shop in this restaurant with a partially open kitchen that allows him to interact with his customers. His traditional cuisine is perfectly crafted and bears the hallmarks of the late Paul Bocuse – namely an absence of contrived creativity and unnecessary convolutions. The culinary offering, which is the same for lunch and dinner, is based on an excellent-value weekly set menu – eg carrot royale with cumin, roast rack of pork with herbs and white beans – and an à la carte menu on which the dishes are just as classical, but made with more refined ingredients: seasonal pâté en croûte, sole meunière, Charolais beef rib with a green peppercorn sauce, and Norwegian omelette flambéed with Cointreau.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. The name of the restaurant means "blackthorn" – a thorny shrub or tree commonly found in the hedgerows of France. Its fruit (sloes) can be turned into sloe gin. Formerly a school dating back to 1866, the premises are tastefully decorated throughout: exposed ceiling beams, large windows giving onto a tree-lined terrace, designer lighting and works of art. The chef offers a seasonal menu served in several courses that celebrates local produce and artisans.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine, Farm to table. Run by an enthusiastic couple who believe in hearty, wholesome food, this restaurant fully deserves its resounding success. The chef skilfully works with fine market produce, illustrated by a perfectly cooked egg with a runny yolk, onions confit in white wine and shredded pork in wild garlic… Outstanding value for money and hits all the right buttons.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. After honing his skills in top houses, Julien Burdin now rolls out a modern, seasonal score rich in crisp, legible flavours, illustrated by creamy Jerusalem artichoke soup with Murcia pepper and finely diced chorizo, or free-range Burgundy poultry in a vin jaune sauce. The à la carte lineup highlights more upmarket produce, like seared slices of duck foie gras, truffles and mashed potato.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. At the head of this pleasant restaurant is a foodie couple who travelled to faraway lands and seas before dropping anchor in Cahors. Jean - François concocts gourmet dishes such as: salmon marinated in fennel or wild seabass, pan - fried chard and Lautrec pink garlic cromesquis. Enough to make your mouth water!

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. Whether by moonlight or sunlight, welcome to this pretty property in the heart of a Dordogne village. The aromas wafting out of the kitchen have been tantalising diners for four generations now! Beautifully presented recipes that err towards traditional and wholesome, such as crispy sweetbread paired with a crunchy tartlet of celeriac and onion milk. Small guestrooms are available to prolong your stay in this enchanting village.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. In this contemporary bistro, the chef rolls out a score that is as straightforward and satisfying as the establishment’s name suggests. Bistro classics (think French onion soup, beef tartare, chocolate mousse) rub shoulders with traditional country recipes, on which he puts a savvy new spin. A case in point is the cromesquis of aligot made with fresh Aubrac tome and tarragon-spiked raviole of poultry. The indulgent, beautifully crafted desserts are wickedly enticing, e.g. an apple extravaganza with caramelised apple, granny smith sorbet, apple gel, pastry cream laced with Madagascan vanilla and a crispy wafer.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. The setting, located in a premier grand cru Sauternes wine estate and run by the Cercle Guiraud team, is certainly breathtaking: a spacious dining area beneath a lofty vaulted ceiling, an open kitchen and an inviting lounge with a fireplace… The menu rolls out flavoursome, mouthwatering dishes illustrated by poached egg and a sauternes sauce, pâté en croûte in a tribute to Mère Brazier, roast pork shoulder in smoked pepper or desserts like Belle Hélène pears. A well-crafted, patriotic Gallic lineup at sensible prices and a deliciously peaceful terrace.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. This village on the road to the Alps has long benefited from the generosity of the Carthusian monks, after whom the restaurant is named. The menu features well-executed modern cuisine that makes the most of seasonal (and often local) ingredients. The ever-popular 64°C egg is beautifully paired with a tempting medley of mushrooms; the classic beef chuck is slowly simmered in Mondeuse and gentian as well as cervelle de canut (a herby cheese spread); the craquelin chou pastry is served with Grenoble walnut praline, hazelnut ice cream and melted chocolate – comfort food that uplifts the spirits! Vegetarian menu available. Large terrace in the heart of the village.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine, Modern Cuisine. Talented pair Emilie and Thomas Fournier have thrown themselves wholeheartedly into running this charming inn hidden deep in the Vienne, which gives pride of place to local producers. The delicious dishes are artfully plated and are good value for money. For example: asparagus and duck confit, served with a warm vinaigrette, or their version of devilled egg – flavoured with wild garlic. Well worth the detour.

Bib Gourmand • Breton, Crêpe. Only a few minutes from the scenic village of Baden, this quintessential Brittany crêperie will win you over with its authentic expertise and its "kraz" (thin and crispy) galettes – buckwheat pancakes made with organic flour and local eggs. Try the hearty "Ange Aigu" galette, packed with smoked bacon, Guémené andouille sausage and a runny egg yolk, or a butter and sugar crêpe with a pinch of salt. Impressive cider menu with around 30 varieties to choose from. The pleasant terrace for fine weather is the final flourish.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. A cosy and newly refurbished interior – wooden floorboards, green and white walls with a few wooden crates affixed to them, modern tables, brown leather chairs – is the showcase for the talents of the chef-patron. His affordable market-fresh cuisine is sure to tantalise the taste buds, thanks to impeccably fresh ingredients teamed with precise cooking and distinct flavours: just-grilled mackerel, aubergine and green olives; catch of the day, mussel cream and artichoke satay.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. In this family-run hotel-restaurant, the first thing you take in is the wonderfully traditional interior decor, with its hardwood flooring and chandeliers. The menu includes classics (beef fillet and pan-fried mushrooms), regional dishes (calf kidneys with Pinot Noir and spaetzle) and a few more contemporary dishes (veal carpaccio and lobster tempura). The cheese platter from the valley is a real highlight.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. This establishment is run by a professional young couple who go to great lengths to keep their guests happy. The fruit of their labours: modern and well-executed cuisine that puts ingredients from the local terroir in the spotlight, as in their tender and tasty haddock sausage accompanied by Picardy mushrooms, or their stuffed farm-reared guinea fowl, apple and onion, chicory jus.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. The former caretaker’s lodge in the grounds of Château de Bac-Saint-Maur is now home to this modern restaurant. Bathed in light thanks to huge picture windows, the interior decoration sings an ode to the seasons. Lobster, cucumber and mint to start; monkfish, green peas and smoked sabayon as a main with strawberries and sorrel to finish: the chef aims to surprise with cuisine that is intelligently creative, starring first-rate, local and seasonal produce.

Bib Gourmand (Green Star) • Traditional Cuisine. After pursuing a career abroad, the chef has returned to his roots, to the family's former hunting lodge, to devote himself to cooking – his earliest passion. In this convivial place, he has perfectly mastered generous traditional cuisine, from cooking to seasoning. We love the terrine with home-made sourdough bread and gherkins from the estate in vinegar. The plus: overnight accommodation in a cabin on stilts!

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine, Traditional Cuisine. In this former coaching inn on the banks of the Loire, you can enjoy the modern cuisine of chef Jean-François Beauduin, who learned the ropes in starred establishments. His tempting menu abounds in seasonal, local produce and stars a wonderful culinary lineup of dishes such as roast pollock, carrot greens and confit ginger. It would be a crime not to sample the soufflé flambéed in cognac with vanilla ice cream on the side. The menu also features a number of more traditional local dishes, like a “beuchelle tourangelle” (creamed kidneys and sweetbreads). Gracious service by the chef's wife, in a pleasantly rustic setting and special mention for the tree-lined shaded terrace.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. Rediscover the green fields of Normandy, admire the horses at the neighbouring stud farm, dream of country living: this authentic half-timbered farmhouse is so pretty that it will make even the most die-hard city-dweller want to retire to the countryside. Calves, cows, pigs and traditional culinary treats await – truffle ravioli with a wild mushroom cream sauce; caramelised fruit tarte fine; not to mention the beef cooked over a wood fire. No sooner have you left than you're longing to return to these tempting rustic-style dishes.

Bib Gourmand • Regional Cuisine. An authentic farmhouse with a pretty rustic - style restaurant, from which you can even see the cows in the cowshed in winter. The chef is passionate about Savoyard produce, and always on the lookout for the best cheeses and cold cooked meats. An eminently pleasant restaurant and very tasty dishes!

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Tucked away in the lush green countryside, this 19C former farm is now an exquisite gourmet establishment. A huge, paved courtyard is framed by historic stone buildings dripping in character, the outhouses of which have been converted into cosy guestrooms. The inviting, airy dining room sports a glazed façade and a warm vibe courtesy of a log-burning fireplace. The establishment’s sensibly priced food is indulgent, wholesome and deftly crafted with local produce and showcased in a well-balanced, authentic menu.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. In Honfleur's historical quarter, Vincent Guyon is doing an admirable job. On the menu: sea bass marinated in citrus fruits, fresh mango, coriander and ginger; chocolate espuma, herb sorbet, cacao tuile and chocolate fleur de sel crunch… but the great classics of the house also feature: beef tartare with oysters, accompanied by mizuna, caviar vinaigrette and grilled rice. Inspired cuisine, perfectly executed.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Welcome to Caroline and Étienne Corson's eminently hospitable eatery. She is in charge of the front-of-house and, left-handed, hence the fork in the restaurant's name is on the right! The dishes celebrate the best of Brittany, showcasing first-class seasonal ingredients: monkfish gravlax with creamy fennel and seaweed jam; plaice, partly mashed potatoes and mikan sauce; melt-in-the-mouth baked apple with a crunchy almond topping and cider caramel, for example. Booking is recommended, as seating is limited in the small cosy dining room.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. With this brasserie, Cyril Attrazic has created the ideal offshoot of his gourmet establishment. The modern decor, adorned with panoramic photos of Aubrac landscapes, provides the perfect foil to sample full-flavoured, well-crafted dishes, whether indoors or on the shaded alfresco area out front. A few dishes you may sample include poultry and foie gras pâté en croûte with vegetable pickles; sautéed fillet of hake, red Camargue rice and pistou of herbs; strawberries, elderflower lactic sorbet and miniature waffles.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. This restaurant, which immediately draws the eye with its appealing half-timbered façade, is a tried-and-tested favourite with diners. Originally from Normandy, chef Xavier Buzieux has been turning out generous, accomplished home-style cooking for nearly 30 years, attentive to the seasons and local producers. Its success continues unabated, thanks in no small part to its droves of regulars and warm and friendly atmosphere.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Clinging to the ramparts of a historical village, this Maison is the quintessence of Provençal art de vivre. The chef crafts vibrant, flavoursome dishes, such as a supreme of free-range poultry, sweet corn and different textures of parsnip, together with a lineup of wickedly addictive, decadent desserts. Superlative sweeping view over Mont Ventoux and the Luberon mountain range from the terrace.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. This restaurant at the tip of Trégor province was originally a signal station then a holiday camp before being converted into a restaurant. From the bright interior, you can enjoy a panoramic view over the Bay of Morlaix. But your attention will soon be drawn to the food, which slaloms between regional delicacies and traditional fare. Very good value-for-money.

Bib Gourmand • Farm to table. Picture a Klein blue frontage and a trendy bistro furnished with assorted antiques and numerous knick-knacks that is packed to the seams with smiling diners. It seems that Léo Huet, like other chefs of his generation, has hit upon the recipe for success: intriguing, tangy dishes rich in fresh premium produce, such as smoked mussels, kaffir, Thai basil and pistachio or steak with Gorilla pepper, kimchi, shiso and cherries, all with contrasting flavours that surprise and titillate the tastebuds. At dinner, the food becomes distinctly high flying as diners prepare to take their time to do justice to the excellent dishes recommended and explained by Maximilien, the chef’s associate, in a pleasantly unstuffy, relaxed vibe.

Bib Gourmand • Provençal. Behind the vintage façade of this dinky restaurant, dripping in charm and simplicity, lies a genuine culinary landmark of Nice. Dominique Le Stanc rustles up nostalgic local dishes (pissaladière, tripe à la niçoise, stockfish, chard pie, lemon tart, etc.), steeped in big-boned, authentic flavours. Tightly packed tables and made-to-measure ceramic tableware amidst a profusion of eclectic works of art set the buzzy scene. N.B. no telephone – bookings are either online or in person… Cash only too.

Bib Gourmand • Lyonnaise. Opened in 1921 in the Presqu'île area, this bouchon with an authentic retro setting hasn't aged a bit. The menu features generous, popular Lyonnais cuisine, with specialities such as tablier de sapeur with gribiche sauce, house-made escargot quenelles, kid goat sweetbreads, calf's head, pink praline flan pâtissier. The colourful front-of-house team brings character to this buzzing spot, where locals and tourists in search of delicious food and authenticity rub shoulders.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. In this village on the outskirts of Grenoble, this charming little restaurant sports white walls and exposed stone, warm-toned hardwood floors and elegant light wood tables. Chef Joan Bois cooks up simple and unpretentious cuisine that follows the seasons, readily incorporating the odd exotic touch inspired by his extensive travels (his passion). Think cod with a green curry and coconut milk sauce, accompanied by herby bamboo rice. Aurélie Josserand takes care of matters on the restaurant floor, providing a warm welcome and attentive service.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. In the picture postcard village of Tournemire, a renovated barn, whose bare stone walls and timber rafters have been preserved, is now the scene of an airy restaurant with a modern extension overlooking the Doire Valley. Managed by the same team as the Puy Tilleul, down the hill in the village, the menu highlights home-grown Cantal produce: locally sourced ingredients, tableware by local artisans and coffee roasted in Aurillac. Concise, polished menu dotted with nods to tradition, like truffade. Panoramic views from the picture windows and big-boned fare served with heartwarming sincerity.

Bib Gourmand • Farm to table. At this restaurant, Charlotte is in charge front of house while Germain cooks up good, generous food made with quality regional – and mainly organic – ingredients. Without sidelining poultry or fish, vegetables do take centre stage: white asparagus, sunflower seed praline and preserved lemon; steamed egg, buckwheat cream, roasted vegetable juice and chard stalks; fennel vanilla cake, lemon cream and preserved orange zest. Reservations are essential, as the people of Rennes have realised they are on to a good thing, with reasonable prices to boot!

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. This delightful conservatory overlooks the peaceful square of the picture postcard village of Puy-Sainte-Réparade. Nadège Serret and Olivier Charmardiras jointly craft enticing market-fresh fare into a seasonal menu in the zeitgeist that changes weekly depending on availability, although some family favourites, like duck foie gras with a seasonal fruit chutney or a dessert pastry chou filled with a wickedly addictive praliné cream, are regularly featured on the menu. The bang-on confident cuisine and sensible prices bear witness to the couple’s sincere desire to please.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. This small hotel-restaurant in a coastal village between Cap Gris-Nez and Cap Blanc-Nez hits all the buttons for a meal on the Opal Coast. Young chef Solène Elliott, whose partner provides friendly service, concocts a tempting seafood-centric menu (sea bream, mackerel, pollack), but not only. Among her delicious and beautifully plated dishes, you may find a velvety soup of white asparagus, caramelised onions, black garlic and fried bread; Licques poultry, mashed potato with cancoillotte cheese, Morteau sausage and braised endive…

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. In the same plush bourgeois edifice as its parent establishment, La Patte Noire, the vintage-appointed La P’tite Patte bistro occupies the ground-floor. The unfussy, wholesome score shines the spotlight on top-drawer produce, examples of which range from a succulent beef-carrot terrine savvily paired with a warm caper and gherkin dressing to tapilla of Iberian pork, wickedly flanked by crunchy fries cooked in beef tallow. Hunger obliterating, throbbing with big-boned flavours and delicately crafted – hard to beat!

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. This restaurant in a 15C building, tucked away in a picturesque side street, is the lair of a cheerful couple, Simon and Linda Boudet. He crafts flavoursome seasonal nosh that celebrates Gallic culinary traditions. Good country cooking with the odd more contemporary touch: salmon gravlax, dill, beetroot and wasabi; chicken breast, roast apricot, polenta fries and rosemary-flavoured poultry gravy. The 100% homemade profiterole is an exquisite blend of fluffy and crunchy – to die for!

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine, Alsatian. This cosy family-run restaurant in Alsace's Vosges mountains has many regulars who come for the mouth-watering traditional cuisine. This is refined and flavourful fare: baeckoffe with snails, fish matelote, venison stew and the like. Attentive service and refurbished guestrooms for overnight stays.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. This restaurant is housed in a former village school for boys. You will notice evidence of its previous incarnation in the decor with blackboards and geographical maps hanging on the walls. On the menu, the dishes are creative and make good use of locally sourced ingredients. It is enough to make us sign up for evening classes!

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. This charming small restaurant sports a contemporary decor on the first floor of a stone house that stands in a medieval, picture postcard village. Tasty cuisine showcasing seasonal market produce with an emphasis on vegetables, hence the delicious and sensibly priced vegetarian menu. The peaceful shaded terrace takes front stage in the summer months. The welcome is as warm as the service is on the ball.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Mickaël Pihours (ex-chef of Michelin-starred Le Gambetta) has opened this contemporary, wood-rich eatery. The dining room occupies two levels, with a chef’s table facing the open kitchen. This “cantine plaisir”, as Pihours himself dubs it, bears the veteran chef’s hallmark: hearty dishes to share that tick all the boxes, paired with side dishes garnished with aromatic herbs. Premium cuts of meat to share and offal are also available on a guest-star basis. The menu changes every week.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. Behind the spruce façade of this former coaching inn, chef Martin is as comfortable rustling up hearty Bresse cuisine as he is dishes with influences from outside of the region – from chicken liver terrine and crayfish bisque to semi-cooked salmon maki, horseradish mayonnaise or skrei flavoured with sweet spices. The chef extends an invitation to taste new things, in a spirit of discovery echoed by the globes on the tables. This fragrant, skilful and delicate cuisine is an invitation to embark on a journey of the senses. What better way to celebrate sunny weather than with a rum-flambéed banana with hazelnut ice cream on the pleasant, peaceful terrace at the back.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Not far from the seaside resort, this family restaurant is the stomping ground of a couple who have experience working in some fine establishments. Yoann Lavalley has bought the stove which he used during his apprenticeship and uses it to create seasonal cuisine that is both flavourful and indulgent. The sommelier, his wife, has curated a nice wine list that represents excellent value for money. Fish of the day, local meat, Normandy cheeses… A pleasant place.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. This endearing bistro has acquired a faithful crowd of regulars, enchanted by the weekly changing menu. Chef Seiji Inomoto expertly crafts fine Franco-Japanese fare, in which "humble" ingredients are taken to new heights thanks to flawless cooking and astute seasoning (panko breadcrumbs, miso, soy marinated veggies). The food is good, often unusual, and you won't believe the value for money. What’s not to like?

Bib Gourmand • Korean. In a stripped-back interior dominated by wood (where you can sit at the counter to watch the chef at work at his large plancha), this Korean restaurant celebrates the country's specialities. Spicy flavours and sauces are the order of the day, courtesy of the obligatory kimchi, Korean fried chicken ("KFC") and delicious ssams. The mackerel fillets simmered in a soya, chilli and white radish broth is a standout dish. The total capacity is 24 diners: booking strongly recommended!

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Just outside the town centre and near the rugby stadium, chef Michel Dussau whips up tasty recipes in a fashionable brasserie setting. He professes a weakness for local and seasonal ingredients, even better when organic. The establishment’s other appeals include a glazed wine cellar, a meat maturing cabinet.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. In the medieval village of Nernier on the banks of Lake Geneva between Yvoire and Messery, this charming country inn is warm and hospitable. Rustic (rafters, terracotta tiles) and contemporary features (pendant lights, designer chairs) rub shoulders in a match made in heaven. The market-fresh menu errs towards the traditional, whilst demonstrating the utmost reverence for the seasons. The smiling and attentive service is courtesy of the chef's partner, while the paved terrace is everything one expects of rural villagey France.

Bib Gourmand • Farm to table. Delicate and decidedly creative cuisine based on good regional ingredients: this restaurant surrounded by vines and cherry trees is a real find. Try the surprise menu, inspired by the offerings of the markets and small-scale local producers. The chef-patron takes care of everything himself, both in the dining room and the kitchen. Special mention for the peaceful terrace, where you can hear the cicadas' call.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Youth, enthusiasm and unbridled creativity: chef Matéo Ravel is a real ball of energy in his trendy bistro with an open kitchen and exposed pipework. A true artisan, he cultivates relationships with a network of small-scale producers and natural winemakers. He bakes his own natural sourdough bread (it's excellent) and has mastered various fermentation techniques, which he incorporates into flavour-packed seasonal recipes: pollock white pudding with fenugreek and a Comté foam, Duroc pork loin, cauliflower and a robust grape-seed jus, or dark chocolate flan with tonka bean served warm with Piper borbonense pepper ice cream.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. This restaurant, located in the courtyard of an inn, sports a cosy mix of bare stone walls, a marble floor, a decorative fireplace and modern features such as workshop-style glass partitions and wooden screens. The food is the joint work of a couple, both locals, who have set up shop on the premises of the inn that belonged to her mother. Examples of their knockout score include crispy black pudding, amandine, black pork chorizo, squid and smoked gravy; a sorbet and a cream of lemon and Kampot pepper, mascarpone mousse and pinenuts. All the delicious bread, ice creams and sorbets are made from scratch.

Bib Gourmand • Farm to table. The brainchild of Thierry and Julien Verrat, Charentes recipes acquire a distinctly bistronomic edge here in a menu that keeps pace with the seasons. For example, duck terrine dotted with foie gras and dried fruit chutney; soufflé of zander, spinach and crayfish butter; or a lemon meringue pie to die for. On fine days, meals are served alfresco on the patio. A genuinely inviting cocoon devoted to good food and good cheer.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. In the upper reaches of Périgueux, chef Gilles Gourvat (a local lad) has been welcoming guests for some fifteen years in a tastefully refurbished farmhouse. His modern recipes pay tribute to Périgord traditions with passing nods to his beloved Basque Country. Local produce is cast in the star role in a hearty gourmet menu: duck confit and wild mushrooms; scrambled eggs and truffles in season; semi-cooked duck foie gras served with figs. A friendly professional front-of-house team caters to your every need.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Chef Pierre Drouineau, who hails from Sarthe (near Le Mans), runs this restaurant at the entrance to an attractive fortified priory, the jewel in the crown of this charming country village. Both the setting and the food are a delight, thanks in particular to the wealth of local ingredients: Touraine lentils, spelt from Manthelan, strawberries from Chouzé-sur-Loire. Think modern bistro cuisine, simple and flavoursome, in the form of dishes such as fillet of duck, roasted crisps, new potatoes from Louans and carrot ketchup – a creation that is packed with distinct flavours.

Bib Gourmand • Farm to table. This bistro on the main boulevard sports a distinctive contemporary decor complete with wooden floors, black and white striped walls and photos of the stars of French cinema enjoying good food. Cooking has no secrets for the chef who rustles up a spot-on, frequently renewed market-fresh menu. Given the location in Beaune, you won't be surprised to learn that the cellar boasts over 1000 labels – so drink up!

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine, Alsatian. Run by the Guggenbuhl family since 1964, this salmon-pink-fronted tavern has earned its reputation. Even those who know nothing about Alsace cuisine are smitten by the enticing regional dishes, washed down by fine wines from near and far! The fillet of zander, sautéed sauerkraut and Riesling sauce we sampled lingers with us still.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Behind the rustic façade of this charming 16C house, some lovely surprises lie in store: chef Laurine Gutleben's dishes give pride of place to fresh produce and free rein to creativity, for instance in her scallop carpaccio with citrus fruits and a langoustine jus. The wine list features a fine selection, particularly, but not only, from Alsace.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Not far from Guillotière metro station, this neighbourhood neo-bistro has taken over a former bouchon. The aesthetic is unabashedly retro, with Formica tables, terrazzo floors and a 1970s vibe. It is run by a close-knit duo: front of house is Mathias Begin (of Substrat fame), who is passionate about wine; in the kitchen, Matthias Lallemant is an alumnus of some of Lyon's finest restaurants. Expect clever, generous, uninhibited cuisine that can be shared without fuss. Perfectly cooked trout, creamy peas and chanterelles, siphon hollandaise sauce, and natural wines to wash it all down… A wonderful gourmet interlude!

Bib Gourmand • Asian. Lao Siam stands out from the crowd of Asian eateries in Belleville. Founded in 1985 by the current owner's parents, who were originally from Thailand and Laos, this neighbourhood restaurant is an institution that celebrates the cuisines of these two countries. Everything is made on site by the three Souksavanh brothers for fine, flavoursome food that is full of flavour: crying tiger and its spicy sauce, thadeua nem (Lao crispy rice salad), tom kha soup, red ruby dessert with coconut milk. If the place is full, head to the adjoining Ama Siam, which has a short menu of specials.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. A stone's throw from Le Castillet, home to the Catalan Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions, this restaurant is tucked away in a historical side street. Élise and Charles Lagrange, in their early twenties, have opened a restaurant on the ground floor, with tables on a patio sheltered from the heat. With its generosity, precision, freshness and attention to the seasons, the chef's cuisine brings a smile to your face: tender white asparagus with smoked taramasalata and asparagus milk, pearlescent pollock on turnip risotto and sabayon maltais. Élise deftly oversees the service. A handful of well-chosen regional wines, served by the glass, are the icing on the cake.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. Masashi Ljichi, chef of La Cachette, has made his dream come true in this wholehearted, flavoursome bistro, whose name pays homage to a former shuttle (bac) that used to cross the Rhône by way of a cable (traille). The accent is on big-boned bistronomic flavours and deft craftsmanship. Market-fresh cuisine and crisp plating, packed in punchy, heroic flavours. Fine selection of regional vintages. Knockout value for money.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine, Country cooking. Chef Jean-Philippe Gauthier is upholding the traditions of this former coaching inn, which has been in the family since 1951. House specialties include: rabbit terrine with foie gras, chicken with vin jaune and morels, and a knockout trolley of matured cheeses. Meals are served in an interior that blends character and authenticity. Charming welcome and service. Rooms for overnight stays.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. With such a name, Le Beaujolais could hardly fail to pay tribute to a region renowned for its fine food and wines! The friendly couple at the helm have risen to the challenge with panache, treating diners to appetising market-fresh cuisine that draws on tradition. The dishes are both delicious and hearty: gougère with snails, persillade and leek fondue; Arctic char steak roasted skin-on; Bresse fromage blanc dessert.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. In a modern building on the higher ground outside Périgueux, Sandrine and Vincent Cardoso's restaurant has a functional dining space. The food represents a complete change of tack, with a different menu on offer every week. Served with good jus, first-rate local ingredients are accompanied by seasonal vegetables that demonstrate the chef's indisputable expertise. Everything is cooked precisely and from the heart. The brandade of salmon with sweet wine, the chicken supreme in a ramekin with bay leaves and farm spinach, or the diced Golden Delicious apple on a buttery sablé reflect the care lavished on each plate. This place is a pleasant surprise, with its enticing set menu at lunchtime served by a friendly, smiling owner.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. The chef finds his inspiration in deepest Brittany, illustrated by dishes such as crumbly buckwheat in butter and shallots, but is also open to other influences, as the loin of roast croaker, grenobloise seasoning and shellfish bisque illustrate. Well-crafted food, cheerful service, a digestible bill and only a few knots from the beach.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. In the annex of his Michelin-starred restaurant, Jérôme Nutile offers a market-fresh slate menu. The culinary line-up takes a new look at textbook Gallic classics and smacks of bistronomic creativity. Examples include creamy artichoke soup jazzed up with truffle oil and foie gras; a half duckling cooked over embers with a honey and thyme sauce; fish of the day from Grau-du-Roi fish auction; a sweet-toothed creamy vacherin with chestnut ice cream and a blackcurrant coulis.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. One of the undeniable bonuses of this hotel is its excellent bistro! The dining room-conservatory serves (lunchtime only) sensibly priced menus in tune with the zeitgeist, such as gravlax of Eyzies trout with a smoked cream cheese sauce or shoulder of lamb, confit and smoked in a casserole dish. Flavour, generosity and respect for the seasons set the tone for chef Pascal Lombard’s creative and enticing culinary score – we’ll be back for more!

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Small in size, big in quality! In a charming location on the banks of the River Cuisance, Lisa and Jérôme have made their establishment a firm fixture of Arbois’ culinary scene. The chef’s seasonal recipes, emblematic of his technique and flair, are a festival of mouth-watering delicacies from his signature dish, Planches trout stuffed with morel and oyster mushrooms, vin jaune sauce to veal medallion, tarragon-spiked jus and polenta with veal sweetbreads. The desserts are well worth a mention too! The “au fil du jour” lunch menu is a steal and the service is refreshingly unstarched and friendly: remember to book!

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. In the heart of the Domaine du Colombier, the Bistrot is depicted by spot-on cooking that blends modernity with tradition courtesy of premium regional produce. Tartare of Ardèche trout, poultry tournedos with Nyons olives or crème brûlée infused in vanilla-tonka bean: a lineup of well-crafted dishes that celebrates the South. Modern interior, glazed wine cellar and a patio overlooking the countryside. Peace and quiet just a few miles outside town.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. In this pretty, contemporary bistro in a pedestrian street by Place de Jaude and St-Pierre-les-Minimes Church, chef Valentin Chambonnière concocts generous, contemporary cuisine based on expertly crafted seasonal ingredients. The creative, spot-on menu is replete with tangy flavours: Jerusalem artichoke – in gnocchi and as crisps, is topped with pan-fried guanciale which strikes a hearty note; slow-cooked leg and shoulder of lamb, confit in spices, is rich in culinary contrasts, while a citrus fruit and white chocolate delight on buckwheat biscuit lends a refreshing final touch. Fine selection of cocktails and spirits. A warm welcome and seamless service.

Bib Gourmand • Provençal. Laurent Azoulay cooks up Provençal cuisine channelling the spirit of a local bistro: beautiful stuffed tomatoes, Camargue rice with Nyons olives; Provençal-style pieds et paquets (mutton tripe and feet), mashed potatoes with olive oil. The fragrant, carefully prepared dishes are full of character, and some are cooked in the wood-burning oven of the open kitchen. The space has a contemporary bistro-style aesthetic; on sunny days, nab a table on the shaded terrace in the village square. Guestrooms are available for overnight stays.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. This friendly bistro in the heart of this small coastal village occupies a charming building opposite the church. The space has been completely renovated in a contemporary style, while retaining nods to the past. Based on dishes for sharing and Celtic ingredients, the food bears the hallmark of Christophe Le Fur (Auberge Grand'Maison). Order a delicious pâté en croûte-style poultry and foie gras terrine, followed by a generous and perfectly indulgent house-made tiramisu for dessert. Front of house, Sonia Quéro provides dynamic service and a friendly welcome.

Bib Gourmand • Farm to table. By the side of the former Route Nationale 7, this inconspicuous little restaurant serves as a reminder not to judge a book by its cover! The couple at the helm cook up a storm in the kitchen, turning out delicious and indulgent market-fresh cuisine, with a focus on local producers. Sénas tomato gazpacho with salted butter croutons; roasted quail with spices and a Port wine sauce; Sénas nectarine clafoutis. Fresh produce (especially the vegetables), the joy of a job well done and unbeatable prices – a good time is on the menu.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover the work of a jovial, self-effacing chef, as modest as his food is good. Premium seasonal produce takes front stage in his dishes: free-range duck breast, purée of quince and prunes and a spicy gravy. Rugged, deftly crafted, lip-smacking food! In fine weather, head for the pretty terrace in the back garden.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine, Traditional Cuisine. This top-notch establishment is laid out behind a tasteful glazed façade. The chef adheres to tradition when crafting his bold, generous and flavourful cuisine but puts his own stamp on dishes with flashes of originality – think tonkatsu-style breaded pork pluma, parsnip mousseline, trapper's spice blend and sweet and sour meat jus. His friendly and efficient wife takes care of things front of house, dispensing insightful wine recommendations along the way.

Bib Gourmand • Regional Cuisine. Generous, meticulous cuisine inspired by the culinary traditions of Burgundy is served in the contemporary setting of this annexe to Yohann Chapuis's fine dining restaurant. The regional classics are present and more-than-correct: "pâté croûte Maison Greuze", eggs meurette (in a red wine sauce), fresh frogs’ legs in a parsley sauce, Bresse chicken with morels and vin jaune, as well as some “creations” like this féra (whitefish) fillet with chlorophyll and pea risotto, and absinthe-spiked sauce. It makes a delightful change to see a list of wines served from magnums available by the glass.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine, Traditional Cuisine. Built on old fortifications, this pleasant restaurant lies at the heart of a wine-growing village that produces Boudes, one of the five wines of Auvergne's vineyards. Christian Coutarel, a jovial chef, works away in the kitchen preparing generous and flavoursome traditional cuisine, without ruling out more modern dishes.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. A picturesque medieval village lined in colourful houses and formerly renowned for its tanners and cobblers is the setting of this burgeoning establishment! Helmed by chef Enzo Duchesne and sommelier Adrien Lavorel, Le Bourgeon nurtures a modern gourmet horticultural score whose ingredients are painstakingly sourced. Veggies take pride of place in the menu, with guest star appearances from meat and fish, in spot-on dishes steeped in aroma and flavour, illustrated by a starter that mixes raw and mashed courgette, goat’s cheese, gremolata and confit of egg yolk. Several menus are available at lunchtime and evening with a mystery menu in the evening and on Saturday lunchtime.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. This pretty stone house in Brélévenez (a neighbourhood of Lannion) is run by Priscilla and Christophe Le Marrec. Business is booming and bookings are advisable – at least 2 months in advance! Rather than luck, their success is due to the hard work and talent of the chef, formerly of La Ville Blanche (Rospez), who deftly crafts an intelligent score loaded in flavour. The food is beautifully plated, the bread is house made and the setting is modern and pared back – what’s not to like?

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Home to the post office, bread shop and bistro, this regional-style building embodies the convivial spirit and hospitality of this mountain village. In the morning, locals stop by to pick up their bread while it's still warm or post a letter at the counter decorated with vintage postcards. The wood-panelled interior, Baumann chairs and Badonviller plates may exude the warmth of a traditional inn, but the cuisine cooked up by the young chef-owner is contemporary: butternut squash soup, pattypan squash and hazelnut cazette salad, pork belly cooked in beer, local-style affogato with meadowsweet and Villaz coffee. This hive of activity also serves meat dishes for sharing and generous snacks.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. In this peaceful village in the Vendée countryside, Virginie and Antoine Préteux run this beautifully renovated former village café-restaurant. The young couple has a proven track record that includes Michelin-starred establishments. Consolidating the sound classical foundations he has learnt throughout his career, Antoine concocts delicious contemporary cuisine, inspired by the market and making the most of regional produce (vegetable platter, creamy and spicy broth; fresh pollack in a miso crust; his tasty take on the chestnut mont blanc dessert). The interior decor is cosy and intimate (with seating for no more than 12, so book in advance!), enhanced by Virginie's particularly attentive service.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. A stone's throw from Saint-Girons, this eatery is housed in the vaulted cellars of the bishop's palace, a listed monument historique built into the Roman wall. Brazilian chef Pamela, also a trained pastry chef, has a personal brand of cooking that showcases local produce and a few fruits and vegetables from the kitchen garden. Sommelier Gianni, of Italian origin, has just the right recommendation of a wine to pair with each dish. Discover beautifully plated, elaborate creations such as "Noir et Or" (Black and Gold) – cocoa, foie gras and mirabelle plums from the garden, and the restaurant's signature dessert: croustade paysanne, a country-style tart with seasonal fruit. From the terrace you can take in a breathtaking view of the verdant valley.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. Old signs, clocks and vintage furniture set the scene. As for the food, authenticity is the order of the day: hearty, down-to-earth dishes, such as white pudding and pâté en croûte inspired by those that the chef’s dad (a Meilleur Ouvrier de France no less!) used to make in Orléans… Amusing collection of nutcrackers picked up here and there by the owner's mum. A real cracker!

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Hugues Maisonneuve is at the helm of this vintage bistro that sports a trendy, weathered look, soft lighting and a pleasant patio. The chef orchestrates a seasonal, market-fresh lunchtime menu, with a more upmarket slant courtesy of noble produce come the evening: warm oysters, calf’s sweetbread, scallops… Everything looks as good as it tastes.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Two former colleagues from Têtedoie have joined forces at "The Drinking Pig!" Savour tasty meat dishes (farm-reared guinea fowl from the Dombes, fillet roasted whole and the leg confit, chestnut and chard) and try out clever combinations (a chocolate ganache served hot with sweet woodruff ice cream). The well-sourced local produce is cooked just right: organic fruit and vegetables, Monts du Lyonnais escargots, veal from the Ain, chocolate from a master chocolatier in Voiron. Choose from small-batch wines for the perfect accompaniment, and enjoy in a warm and friendly atmosphere.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. This gourmet hideaway, which sources most of its ingredients from local growers and livestock farmers, abounds with charm, freshness and flavour. In the heart of the Lauragais, this pretty restaurant with a lovely terrace boasts smiling, well-paced service and confidently executed dishes at very reasonable prices: pig's trotter ravioli with oyster mushrooms, bay leaf and sage sauce; grilled onglet steak with a peppercorn jus; for dessert, vanilla and ginger mesturet. To wash down with wines from Gaillac and Languedoc.

Bib Gourmand • Breton. Breizh Café is the result of a stroke of genius: the idea of mixing Breton traditions with the Japanese flair for presentation. Inviting modern decor with a counter facing the open kitchen, as in Japan. Local ingredients (100% organic buckwheat, oysters from Cancale, butter from Bordier) and a few contemporary touches, such as buckwheat pancakes rolled up like maki. Good choice of ciders.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. This extension of the gourmet flagship, La Butte, sports a modern layout with an open kitchen and a bakery-cum-shop. Chef Nicolas Conraux specialises in wholesome traditional fare deeply entrenched in the Finistère region. The set menu is both well-curated and well-priced and those with a sweet tooth will be bowled over by the eat-as-much-as-you-like dessert buffet.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. This restaurant – one of many (including some real juggernauts!) surrounding the lake – proves that good things come in small packages. In a compact dining area, you can enjoy dish after dish that is absolutely on point with its bold flavours, such as low-temperature egg, celery and pear, or hake, vegetable noodles and ginger-lemongrass broth. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed. It really is love at first bite... Now that you're in on the secret, you know what to do!

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Armed with an iron-clad CV (Atelier Guy Martin, Lucas Carton, Grand Véfour), Sébastien Dagoneau has been weaving his magic since he took over Le Cornichon in January 2020. Born in the Perche, the chef works directly with producers and suppliers from his homeland, in particular pork and poultry breeders. Examples include guineafowl cooked in morel mushrooms or melt-in-the-mouth pork and potato gnocchi, followed by a crunchy yet fluffy chou filled with Bourbon vanilla cream. Fine selection of organic and natural wines.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. The restaurant at Le Cottage is the latest venture of Philippe Girardon, a chef whose passion and experience are beyond dispute. He creates bistro - style fare using lovely fresh ingredients. Savour these in the large dining area or outside on the terrace in the shade of the plane trees.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. An editor turned chef, Pauline Labrousse displays her taste for herbs, vegetables and spices, all of which permeate her fragrant and inventive dishes. The concept is simple: diners start by choosing a side dish (roasted carrots with ginger and apricot sauce; stuffed Swiss chard, sticky rice, hummus and cucumber carpaccio), then the meat or fish of the day, or two side dishes in the case of vegetarians. This charming bistro is run by La Pantruchoise, a collective led by chef Franck Baranger.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Ten minutes from Cognac, this stone building houses a contemporary bistro with a large terrace overlooking a small garden. With clear names and distinct flavours, the dishes appeal to the taste buds. The chef cooks with vegetables from a nearby farm, fruit from the orchard, fish from La Cotinière. Fresh ingredients, precise seasoning, good technique: everything is made in-house, from the bread to the ice cream.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. This picturesque half-timbered Alsace edifice has successfully kept pace with the times and its experienced chef conjures up modern, bistro dishes. Examples include the signature fish casserole with aïoli croutons, or spice-crusted lamb cutlet and fillet with braised vegetables and chickpea cream.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. This dinky restaurant off the busy tourist trail is run by a couple of talented cooks with a passion for a Mediterranean fish called dentex (denti). Together they conjure up flavoursome, market-fresh, mainly fish dishes, in tune with the seasons. Cheerful, casual vibe.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. This restaurant is tucked away in a side street set back from the marina and the walled city. Harmony reigns in the kitchen, where a duo of chefs composes dishes made with ultra-fresh ingredients. Locally sourced produce takes pride of place on the menu: buckwheat, the daily catch of small local boats, Brittany-reared pork, Bruyère Blanche poultry, farm-range eggs, without forgetting the excellent homemade bread.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Welcome to the Basque country! Le Gantxo – named after a pass in pelota – gives directly onto the trinquet, the ground where the famous local sport is played. In the kitchen, Isabelle and Laurent Miremont revisit Basque cuisine in a very personal way, composing dishes that are up to the minute, often copious, always tasty. A firm favourite!

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. "Garriane" is the contraction of Garry and Ariane, and originality is the name of the game here! In the kitchens, Garry, an Australian, concocts seasonal, ingredient-focused cuisine that taps into influences from around the world. The restaurant is now open for lunch as well as Monday for dinner, with a menu of vegetarian and vegan options, and operates as a café in the mornings and afternoons.

Bib Gourmand • Farm to table. Arnaud Jourdan (stints in the kitchens of La Chassagnette and Les Maisons Rabanel) has adroitly taken over the reins of this bistro, which continues to serve indulgent market cuisine that is both simple and generous. Shining examples include the carpaccio of calf's head with ravigote sauce, the skate wing à la grenobloise with glazed radishes and the delicious chocolate mousse with black olives and fleur de sel. A buzzy, laid-back vibe and, true to its name (slang for "wine"), you can expect a fine selection of natural and biodynamic wines at reasonable prices.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. In this bistro with tables laid out either side of a glass-fronted wine cellar, diners tuck into delicious market-based cuisine prepared by chef Grégoire Baratier. The menu changes regularly, but two examples give a sense of his style: artichoke panna cotta, calamansi-marinated crab and pickled chanterelles; floating island, crème anglaise with Ardèche chestnuts and quince confit. Fresh, well-crafted cuisine, with the occasional nod to Lyon's culinary heritage.

Bib Gourmand (Green Star) • Seafood. Run by a bubbly, youthful team, this friendly dinky bistro at the tip of the island is invariably packed to the seams. The menu, as concise as it is tempting, never fails to deliver the goods: most of the fruit and veg is grown on the island, the fish is from local fish auctions, (crafted in many guises), local producers and natural wines frequently take the limelight and the bread is made in-house with flour produced on Oléron. The signature dish varies with the season from agnolotti of langoustines to royal shrimp, from Oléron, of course! Bookings are essential given the establishment’s popularity.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. In the student area of two of the city's universities (Lumière and Jean Moulin), Le Kitchen is thriving. The interior is a delightful marriage of Art Deco and Scandinavian elements – one of the owners was born in Stockholm. Her pastry chef partner stocks the pastry display case with mouth-watering treats (to eat in or take away). Note that they open for breakfast and afternoon tea, but not for dinner. The dishes are delicate and indulgent, made with organic produce from the region, especially when it comes to vegetables.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine, Modern Cuisine. This restaurant is run by a young couple who are passionate about what they do: chef Flavio Ricco and Lola Goudenove. In the heart of the village it has a cosy dining area done out in the style of a lodge. The blend of wood and stone makes for a relaxing feel. The chef prepares traditional cuisine with a measure of creativity, highlighting local ingredients on a set menu (with options). This lunchtime, the chef demonstrated his finesse when revisiting soupe châtrée – a rather hearty Samoëns speciality made with bread, Tomme de Savoie cheese and onion soup, that was followed by a fillet of sea bass with celery and beurre blanc with Génépi. For dessert, there was candied apple, vanilla cream and vanilla ice cream. The welcome and service are charming: in fact, the chef comes out of his kitchen from time to time to serve his guests.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. A military barracks under Napoleon III, the site has since been converted into a restaurant, where chef Ludovic Brethenoux brings in the big guns. Originally from Périgord, he trained, most notably, at La Villa Madie in Cassis. His affinity with the Vendômois area is evident in his precise and refined contemporary cuisine. A real treat.