If you’re planning a trip to Arles, you’ll want to know the best places to grab a bite and rest your head. We’ve put together a list of restaurants that serve up tasty meals at fair prices, as well as our top pick for accommodation.
Cuisine de Comptoir: A Lunchtime Gem
For a fantastic lunch spot, head to Cuisine de Comptoir. This place is known for its high-quality food and reasonable prices. The menu features a selection of tartines (hearty slices of toasted country bread with various toppings), which come with your choice of soup or salad and a drink.
Must-Try Dishes
- The generous and flavorful salad
- Tartine with thick slices of foie gras
- Tartine topped with grilled tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil
- Homemade cheesecake for dessert
You can find Cuisine de Comptoir at 10 rue de la Liberté. They’re also open for breakfast and dinner.
Tonton Sam: Gourmet Burgers to the Rescue
We stumbled upon Tonton Sam while seeking shelter from a sudden rain storm, and we were pleasantly surprised by the meal we had there. This spot serves up gourmet burgers made with locally sourced ingredients, such as organic beef, regional cheeses, and homemade condiments, all served on artisanal breads.
Tonton Sam is located at 10 Rue de l’Hôtel de Ville.
Restaurant Le Plaza-La Paillotte: Exceeding Expectations
Every so often, you come across a restaurant that goes above and beyond your expectations. Restaurant Le Plaza-La Paillotte is one of those places. They offer an excellent selection of regional dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, all at reasonable prices.
Standout Dishes
- Chèvre with black olive tapenade and tomato puree
- Red pepper gazpacho with pine nuts and crème fraîche
- Bull stew with red rice from the Camargue
- White fish in butter with spinach and roasted potatoes
- Chocolate and nut cake with raspberry sauce and whipped cream
- Crème caramel
You can find Restaurant Le Plaza-La Paillotte at 28, rue du Docteur Fanton.
La Galoubet: Rustic Charm and Traditional Flavors
For our last dinner in Arles, we opted for La Galoubet, a small, rustic restaurant that serves up tasty traditional French cuisine.
Appetizers to Remember
- Salad of arugula, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and parmesan cheese
- Œuf mollet (soft-boiled egg) served over potatoes with bacon, baby spinach, and gravy
Main Courses to Savor
- Honey-glazed pork with root vegetables and mashed potatoes
- Grilled steak with peppercorn sauce
La Galoubet is located at 18 Rue du Dr Fanton, just a short walk from Le Plaza.
Hotel de l’Amphithéatre: Elegant Accommodation in the Heart of Arles
For a comfortable and stylish place to stay, consider the Hotel de l’Amphithéatre. This elegant hotel is housed in a 17th-century mansion and offers beautifully decorated rooms at very reasonable rates.
Room with a View
If you’re lucky, you might be able to snag one of their fantastic rooms with a view. Even if you don’t, you’ll appreciate the hotel’s inviting common areas and lounges.
Central Location
The Hotel de l’Amphithéatre is conveniently located at 5-7 rue Diderot, just a stone’s throw from both the Antique Theatre and the Roman Amphitheater. This makes it the perfect base for exploring Arles’ top attractions.
Tips for Dining and Staying in Arles
- Make reservations at popular restaurants to ensure a table, especially during peak travel seasons.
- Don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path – some of the best meals can be found in small, unassuming eateries.
- When choosing accommodation, consider your budget, desired amenities, and proximity to the sights you want to see.
- If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, be sure to communicate these to the restaurant staff when ordering.
- Take advantage of the local markets and food shops to sample regional specialties and ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there vegetarian options at these restaurants?
While traditional French cuisine often features meat, most restaurants offer vegetarian options or can accommodate dietary restrictions. It’s always a good idea to ask your server about suitable menu items.
What is the average cost of a meal in Arles?
Prices can vary depending on the restaurant and type of cuisine. However, you can expect to pay around €15-25 for a main course at a mid-range restaurant. Set menus and lunch specials often provide good value for money.
Is it necessary to speak French when dining out in Arles?
While it’s always helpful to know a few basic phrases, many restaurants in Arles cater to travelers and have English-speaking staff or English menus available. Don’t hesitate to ask for assistance if needed.
Are there any local dishes or ingredients I should try?
Arles and the surrounding Provence region are known for dishes like ratatouille, bouillabaisse (a fish stew), and daube (a slow-cooked beef stew). Look for dishes featuring local ingredients like olives, tomatoes, garlic, and herbs.
Recap
Arles offers a delightful array of dining options, from casual lunch spots to elegant restaurants serving up regional specialties. By following our recommendations and tips, you’ll be sure to have a memorable culinary experience during your stay in this charming French city. Bon appétit!
