La Locomotive

Japan boasts two museums devoted to the cartoonist Raymond Peynet, who created the famous lovers in 1942, immortalised by a postage stamp. Some of his Japanese admirers thus naturally chose the small village of Saint Valentin to celebrate February 14 in culinary style. In a stripped-back, contemporary interior, graced with posters and lithographs by Peynet, a 100% Japanese brigade conjures up a subtle new take on modern Gallic fare, scattered with delicate Japanese notes.

Marie-Christine and Didier Clément have successfully enhanced Sologne’s pastoral universe in their historic regional gourmet landmark thanks to some fabulous restoration work. The Offard house was entrusted with creating an incredible natural, ‘rural’ interior out of “stone cardboard”, an 18C handicraft about which chef Didier Clément is passionate. The food embodies a gourmet interpretation of the countryside, courtesy of the chef’s research into forgotten herbs and spices: grains of paradise, sand leek, angelica and lemon thyme. Clément signs a patriotic lineup, free of unnecessary frills an

With its beams painted "Berrichon blue", this is an extremely appealing spot. You are in for a culinary treat, safe in the hands of a chef who draws inspiration from tradition and premium ingredients, producing dishes such as foie gras poached in Reuilly or hay-steamed pigeon. In fine weather, be sure to reserve a table on the terrace.

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.

This restaurant run by a sincere and welcoming couple in an old farmhouse about 15km from Bourges is definitely one to recommend. Everything is house-made, most of the vegetables come from the family's own garden, and freshness is the order of the day in each dish. Multi-course set menus – more elaborate in the evening and at weekends – to be enjoyed on the shaded terrace bordered by the garden.

A father-and-son team is behind this brasserie-style restaurant with a smart, polished interior and a hint of Scandinavian flair. The father is a seasoned professional who has been cooking since he was 15 (his CV includes the Grand Hôtel du Lion d'Or in Romorantin and the Domaine des Dryades); his son provides enthusiastic service front of house. Farm produce and fish from Brittany are elevated by the sure touch of the chef: pan-fried snails and octopus, root vegetables and black garlic jus; sesame and dried lime biscuit, crumble with toasted sesame oil.

In the heart of the old town, this contemporary restaurant is run with appealing energy by a young chef who gives free rein to his inspiration, resulting in a delicious and eclectic culinary experience for diners. Indeed, influences from far and wide come together on a menu that is regularly renewed according to the seasons and the market; there are plenty of dishes for sharing. The restaurant also boasts a great selection of cocktails and a short wine list including a good choice of wines by the glass.