La Ruche

It may take a little getting to, but this family-run restaurant set in the countryside is a real treat! Fabrice and Clément Dallais, representing the third and fourth generations, create dishes with a modern outlook. Theirs is tasty, festive fare that is deeply rooted in the local land – for example, Racan chicken and pigeon, Géline de Touraine (heirloom poultry), offal and game, organic vegetables from market gardeners, and pike. Tuck into their surprise set menus in an immaculate contemporary setting. Remarkable wine list and judicious recommendations from the sommelier.

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.

Assisted front of house by sommelier Océane (his partner), Clément Dumont, a young chef from the region with some solid experience, has made this restaurant not far from the Royal Citadel the new place to be. An inspired technician with a love of plants and the seasons, he cooks up creative, at times bold cuisine that is inspired by the village, Loire poultry and fish, and of course the goat's cheese, vegetables from his own kitchen garden, and herbs picked by small-scale grower Juliette Krier. One example is the starter based on white asparagus from the Richelais area, preserved egg yolk, eld

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.

Picture a sprawling estate (almost 2,500 acres) of woodland, forest, meadows, farmsteads and ponds and now add a 13C castle equipped with all the modern comforts one would expect from a luxury establishment. The former stables have been converted into a dining room that adroitly blends antique and trendy details. The estate’s homegrown produce and aromatic fresh herbs feature prominently on the menu, as kitchen garden recipes vie for pride of place with confidently curated textbook classics. The terrace is heavenly in fine weather.

Locally reared meat (lamb, veal, beef), regional cheeses (mainly goat’s) and veggies from his large market garden… The chef is a fan of the region as you will taste. The delicious food is served in a pleasantly rustic interior. The epitome of a French country inn!

In a modern interior, this restaurant puts local ingredients centre stage. On sunny days, on the peaceful patio, you will make the connection between the name of this place and its namesake, the Roman general Lucullus, renowned for his lavish dining table. The flavoursome dishes, such as Anjou quail roasted whole, with confit legs, burnt corn purée and royal sauce, are beautifully presented.