Great restaurants in La Rochelle range from swanky places with Michelin stars to laidback American diners. As a central fishing hub since the 12th century, the city has an illustrious maritime past. Freshly caught seafood stars at most La Rochelle restaurants. However, you’ll find plenty of land-based delicacies, too.

Some top gastronomic options gravitate around the historic Vieux Port and the modern Les Minimes marina. Others lie hidden in half-timbered medieval houses or magnificent Renaissance homes. Either way, an elegant atmosphere is all but guaranteed. Not sure where to eat? Read through our picks of the best restaurants in La Rochelle below.

  • 1

    Restaurant Christopher Coutanceau

    A world-class dining venue in La Rochelle

    Restaurant Christopher Coutanceau
    • Coppie
    • Cibo
    • Lusso

    Christopher Coutanceau is one of the swankiest restaurants in La Rochelle. Overlooking Plage de la Concurrence, the sophisticated Michelin-starred venue boasts contemporary white-tablecloth interiors and sweeping bay views. Order a fine French wine from the 24,000-bottle cellar to sip while you admire the million-dollar scene.

    Of course, it’s the food that lures well-heeled gourmands in droves. Chef-fisherman Christopher Coutanceau crafts a delectable seafood-centric menu of ocean-dwelling treats, plus a decadent selection of sweets. Order the 6-to-8-course Sea Voyage set menu to sample the entire range of flavours.

    Posizione: Plage de la Concurrence, 17000 La Rochelle, France

    Orario di apertura: Tuesday–Wednesday from 7.30 pm to 9.15 pm, Thursday–Saturday from 12.15 pm to 1.15 pm and 7.30 pm to 9 pm

    Telefono: +33 (0)5 46 41 48 19

    Mappa
  • 2

    Bar André

    A 70-year-old local favourite by the port

    Bar André
    • Cibo
    • Gruppi
    • Lusso

    Established in 1947, Bar André is a longstanding old port institution plating up an array of divine seafood dishes. Pull up a pew on the pretty sidewalk patio overlooking the harbour and Chaîne Tower. Or if you’d rather dine indoors, its warm, spacious interiors feature stone brick walls and charming nautical decor.

    The upmarket establishment serves an expansive selection of classic seafood delicacies. Order the perennially popular seafood platter to savour a buffet of flavours. Other highlights include the fish soup, fresh oysters, and smoked salmon fillet. Meat dishes are available for non-seafood eaters.

    Posizione: 5 Rue St Jean du Pérot, 17000 La Rochelle, France

    Orario di apertura: Monday–Thursday from 12 pm to 2 pm and 7 pm to 10 pm, Friday from 12 pm to 2 pm and 7 pm to 10.30 pm, Saturday–Sunday from 12 pm to 2.30 pm and 7 pm to 10 pm

    Telefono: +33 (0)5 46 41 28 24

    Mappa
  • 3

    Prao Restaurant

    A creative global dining haunt with an epic brunch menu

    Prao Restaurant
    • Cibo
    • Gruppi

    Prao Restaurant is an innovative international-inspired establishment a block back from the old port in La Rochelle. The creative, contemporary venue attracts style-conscious diners with its tall ceilings, vibrant artworks, and curious hanging lampshades. Sit outside if you’d rather people-watch while you dine.

    Prao's esteemed chef prepares fresh delicacies from quality locally sourced produce. Good value set lunch and dinner menus comprise 3 to 4 tempting courses. Not that hungry? A la carte is available, too. Alternatively, kickstart your day the right way with their famous brunch menu.

    Posizione: 10 Rue Saint-Nicolas, 17000 La Rochelle, France

    Orario di apertura: Monday–Saturday from 12 pm to 2 pm and 7.30 pm to 10 pm (closed on Sundays)

    Telefono: +33 (0)5 46 37 85 46

    Mappa
  • 4

    Ginger

    A trendy international restaurant with a health food menu

    Ginger
    • Cibo
    • Gruppi

    Ginger whips up French and international flavours in a hip innercity locale in La Rochelle. Run by a duo of lifelong friends, the contemporary venture showcases delicate flavours from all corners of the globe. From the premium Argentinian beef to the wild Madagascar prawns, each dish delivers.

    Meals come a la carte or bundled together in a cost-effective tasting menu. If you’re watching your waistline (or don’t feel so hungry), there’s a superb light ‘n’ healthy menu to peruse. Top-notch presentations and a sophisticated ambience make this place well worth a try.

    Posizione: 33 Rue St Jean du Pérot, 17000 La Rochelle, France

    Orario di apertura: Daily from 12 pm to 2.30 pm and 6.45 pm to 10.30 pm

    Telefono: +33 (0)5 46 28 25 14

    Mappa
  • 5

    La Storia

    A friendly Italian restaurant with excellent desserts

    La Storia
    • Cibo
    • Gruppi

    La Storia is your go-to venue for authentic Italian flavours in the heart of La Rochelle’s old port. The homely, unpretentious venue serves divine wood-fired pizza, tasty handmade pasta, and yummy appetisers like antipasti. Seafood eaters should try the blue mussels or marinated octopus – the latter is the house speciality.

    This famously friendly venue is renowned for its impeccable service and smiling, ever-attentive staff. Traditional trattoria-style décor and warm cosy vibes define the inside. If you still have room for dessert, try the parfait or the heavenly lemon tart.

    Posizione: 22 Cr des Dames, 17000 La Rochelle, France

    Orario di apertura: Daily from 12 pm to 1.45 pm and 7 pm to 9.45 pm

    Telefono: +33 (0)5 46 28 35 54

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  • 6

    Memphis - Restaurant Diner

    All-American comfort food, Memphis style

    Memphis - Restaurant Diner
    • Budget
    • Famiglie
    • Cibo
    • Gruppi

    Memphis Restaurant is a go-to in La Rochelle for good ol’ American comfort food. Hearty burgers, succulent steaks, and slow-cooked BBQ ribs dominate the menu at this 1950s-inspired all-American diner. The popular franchise has branches throughout France and neighbouring European nations.

    This unpretentious establishment resides in Parc Commercial Beaulieu La Rochelle, a sprawling mall on the edge of town. Chequered floors, vibrant vinyl booths, and bright neon signs enhance the joyful vintage vibe. Wash down your decadent meal with a colourful cocktail or an ice-cold bottle of Bud Light.

    Posizione: Zone commerciale, 13 Rue du 14 Juillet, ZAC de Beaulieu, 17138 Puilboreau, France

    Orario di apertura: Sunday–Thursday from 11.45 am to 3 pm and 7 pm to 10 pm, Friday–Saturday from 11.45 am to 3 pm and 7 pm to 10.30 pm

    Telefono: +33 (0)5 46 68 20 68

    Mappa
  • 7

    Le Jardin du Marche

    Waistline-friendly fare from quality regional suppliers

    Le Jardin du Marche
    • Budget
    • Cibo
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    Jardin du Marché is a healthy-eating restaurant in La Rochelle with a steadfast focus on regional produce. The young proprietor, a passionate lady named Eglantine, sources fresh, high-quality ingredients from providers only a few kilometres away. Renewable energy, reforestation programmes, and recycling initiatives enhance her eco-friendly ethos.

    Punters dine outside in a shady, tree-lined patio or indoors with a chic contemporary setting. The reasonably priced breakfast and lunch menu spans crepes to fruit-filled muesli bowls and tempting tartines. Get in early, as many of their freshly-made dishes sell out fast.

    Posizione: 5 Rue Gargoulleau, 17000 La Rochelle, France

    Orario di apertura: Tuesday–Saturday from 8.30 am to 6 pm (closed on Sundays and Mondays)

    Telefono: +33 (0)5 46 41 06 42

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  • 8

    Creperie La Galettiere

    Traditional crepes and galettes

    Creperie La Galettiere
    • Budget
    • Cibo

    La Galettière is your best bet for traditional French-style crepes in La Rochelle. Located mere metres from the harbour, the popular spot stocks a buffet of tasty pancake-like delights. Both sweet and savoury options are available with an array of delicious fillings.

    In addition to crepes, the place is equally famous for its next-level galettes, a light crusty cake stuffed with hearty toppings. The cosy traditional venue boasts exceptional service and has a small selection of superb ciders on tap. A family-friendly atmosphere and decadent sugary flavours make this place a hit with the little ones.

    Posizione: 9 Rue de la Chaîne, 17000 La Rochelle, France

    Orario di apertura: Friday–Tuesday from 12 pm to 2 pm and 7 pm to 10 pm (closed on Wednesdays and Thursdays)

    Telefono: +33 (0)5 46 28 29 59

    Mappa
  • 9

    Saveurs Dans L’R

    Traditional French food at a fair price

    Saveurs Dans L’R
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    Saveurs Dans L’R specialises in preparing traditional French gastronomy from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Its proprietors source quality produce each morning from the nearby Central Market. The duo then whips up an array of superb entrees, mains, and desserts for their loyal local clientele.

    Wondering what to order? The creamy risotto au foie gras goes down a treat. Patrons also rave about their parfait, a sweet custard-like puree. Exceptional food presentation, reasonable prices, and a homely atmosphere ensure the place packs out at peak times.

    Posizione: 18 Rue Gambetta, 17000 La Rochelle, France

    Orario di apertura: Tuesday–Saturday from 12 pm to 1.30 pm and 7 pm to 9.15 pm (closed on Sundays and Mondays)

    Telefono: +33 (0)5 46 34 44 78

    Mappa
  • 10

    Restaurant Les Flots

    High-end dining by the old port

    Restaurant Les Flots
    • Coppie
    • Cibo
    • Gruppi
    • Lusso

    Restaurant Les Flots is a slick fine-dining venue overlooking the old port in La Rochelle. Set in a charming 18th-century tavern at the foot of the Chaîne Tower, this local institution has been open since 1945. Grab a seat on the patio to watch ships pass by in the port.

    As you’d expect from an oceanfront establishment, the kitchen specialises in seafood. Each delicious dish hits the spot, from the beetroot and lime juice scallops to the escabèche mackerel and premium Gillardeau oysters. Order a lunch or dinner tasting menu to savour the full spectrum of flavours.

    Posizione: 1 Rue de la Chaîne, 17000 La Rochelle, France

    Orario di apertura: Sunday–Thursday from 12.15 pm to 2 pm and 7.30 pm to 9.30 pm, Friday–Saturday from 12.15 pm to 2 pm and 7.30 pm to 10 pm

    Telefono: +33 (0)5 46 41 32 51

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Harry Stewart | Collaboratore alla scrittura