L'Esprit des Mets

Languedoc-Roussillon


Industrial Alès – and especially its business park 3km south of the centre across the river – is the last place you'd expect to find a fine-dining diamond, but foodies flock here; book ahead. In his open kitchen, chef Christian Achour creates masterpieces including his signature tournedos rossini (filet mignon and pan-fried foie gras) with black-truffle jus. All wines are local.

The striking black, white and bare-boards dining room is ultra-contemporary; in warm weather, the most atmospheric seats are on the garden terrace.