Monaco is the international capital of luxury so it is unsurprising that within its boundaries some of the very best restaurants in the world can be found.
Over recent decades, a large number of award-winning restaurants have sprung up in the Principality, many of which are overseen by some of the biggest names in haute cuisine who have been drawn to this very special corner of Europe for its excellent local produce and gastronomic influences.
In fact, Monaco’s gastronomical scene is so varied and sophisticated that many visitors travelling to the Principality will find it hard to choose where to dine. We have selected three of our very favourite restaurants to help make that choice.
LE LOUIS XV ALAIN DUCASSE AT HÔTEL DE PARIS
Situated in arguably Monaco’s most stylish and luxurious five star hotel The Hotel de Paris, close to the world's largest collection of luxury cars, the Louis XV is an imperative dining spot for serious foodies travelling to the Principality. Opened by celebrated chef Alain Ducasse 28 years ago, the Louis XV was the very first hotel restaurant in the world to be awarded three Michelin stars, which it still holds today. Recently reopened after being renovated by award-winning interior designers Patrick Jouin and Sanjit Manku, the Louis XV never fails to impress. The food is world class, with a menu focusing on fresh fish, herbs and vegetables; the wine list includes some of the finest and rarest in the world, while the setting is quite spectacular. The only problem might be reserving a table, so if you are travelling to Monaco and would like to experience the wonders of Louis XV – Alain Ducasse at Hotel de Paris, be sure to book in advance.
JOEL ROBUCHON
Talented chef Joel Robuchon is the most ‘starred’ chef in the world with an incredible 26 Michelin awards under his belt, so it goes without saying that his signature restaurant in the prestigious Hotel Metropole is considered amongst Monaco’s finest. Inaugurated in 2004, the restaurant is located in a wonderful setting with stunning views over the Principality. Here, dinners can watch sumptuous Mediterranean dishes such as Langoustine ravioli with truffles and quail caramalised with apple puree and truffles be created in an open kitchen by executive chef Christophe Cussac. Again, as with any of the top Monaco restaurants, it is wise to reserve table in advance.
SONG QI BY ALAN YAU
Relatively new to the dining scene in Monaco is Song Qi by Alan Yau, the celebrated chef behind the two Michelin star London restaurant Hakkasan. This stylish and extremely authentic Chinese restaurant is located a stone’s throw away from the Mediterranean, on the exclusive avenue Princesse Grace. Although it only opened last year it has quickly gained a reputation as being one of Monaco’s finest restaurants where traditional Chinese food is served in a stunning setting.
This article was written in conjunction with Heli Securite, Monaco helicopter charter company.
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