The official Insider’s Guide to dining in Courchevel & Les Trois Vallees.
By Robin Kinnaird, of Snow Limits Ski School.
One of our favourite things about being on holiday is eating great food. In that respect the Three Valleys never fails to deliver, with a record-breaking number of Michelin starred restaurants to some of the best secret hideaways in the Alps. Courchevel is perhaps the jewel in the crown with potentially the best places you’ll ever eat, from some of the most iconic restaurants in the world to possibly the best pizza, we’ve got you covered! We could write the popular tourist guide but we wanted to share the places we love and think are genuinely special. Trust us we live here!!! These are just a few of the spots we know and will happily take you.
Le Farcon is a hidden icon of gastronomy. Run by Julian Machet one of the youngest people awarded a Michelin star in France ever, he has consistently maintained it for the last decade. Julian honed his craft globally however he takes his real inspiration from his backyard. He was influenced by his grandmother Mado, we have fond memories of long lunches full of fresh produce prepared from her garden. The wine list is extensive featuring many rare vintages from Savoie and beyond. Lunch and evening dining available.
It could be best in so many categories from the stunning views across the valley to the consistently excellent service. The food is authentically Savoyard, not your heart attack inducing cheese fest but classics like Tarte aux Beaufort or Diots aux Vin Blanc, the portions are perfect for a day on the mountain. The afternoon sun will have you pinned to your seat and regular live music completes the atmosphere.
CORTONA, COURCHEVEL VILLAGE (1550)
What can we say? Wood oven and handmade pizza since 1989 these guys know their pizza. The food is steeped in Italian tradition it’s by far and away the best pizza you’ll experience for miles around! A great warm welcome and relaxed surroundings cap it all off. We also recommend the Burrata salad, a real taste of Italy. Well worth an evening visit.
With perfect views across the valley towards the Grand Bec and the opportunity to watch the Courchevel Altiport in action this is a great spot on the hill. It was a farmers hut and Fromagerie (cheese producers hut) until two former ski instructors in the family took it over and created this lovely restaurant. Don’t be fooled by its humble beginnings this restaurant produces some of the best meals on the mountain. The wine list is extensive and its easy to lose yourself gazing and grazing. For those looking for a little extra culture its still possible to view the original farming and cheese making equipment on display in the cellar.
Located almost in the center of Courchevel 1850 this is the sister restaurant of the iconic 3 Michelin star Chabichou. On skis, it can be accessed via the Courchevel FIS World Cup race piste or for those not feeling as daring there is a lovely run called the Boulevard Chabichou. Serving Bistronomique food this high-end eatery won’t break the budget. It has a great atmosphere with an open kitchen and impeccable service. The best thing on the Menu… the Serrano ham! However there are also always vegetarian options and great fish dishes too. Lunch and evening dining.
LES PEUPLIERS, COURCHEVEL LE PRAZ
Set in the beautiful village of Le Praz this family-run hotel has been a firm favourite with visitors for generations. The restaurant- La Table de Mon Grand Pere is relaxed in its surroundings. The service whether lunch or dinner is always exceptional and the friendly staff make every meal an occasion whether it be an intimate dinner or lunch with friends. The food is elegant and simple, for the wine lovers, the Sommelier Lionel is always on hand to help you chose wine to enhance any meal. Lunch and evening dining.
