Monaco, the dazzling jewel of the French Riviera, is famed not just for its yachts, casinos, and Grand Prix – but also for a dining scene that rivals the world’s finest. From Michelin – starred haute cuisine to tucked – away bistros in Monaco’s Old Town, the principality offers an extraordinary array of culinary experiences. Whether you’re searching for best restaurants in Monaco for dinner or best restaurants in Monaco for lunch, here’s your ultimate guide.
Introduction to Monaco’s Diverse and World-Class Dining Scene
In a place where luxury and elegance meet the Mediterranean sun, Monaco’s restaurant offerings are nothing short of spectacular. Top chefs worldwide congregate here, bringing imaginative menus, stunning views, and impeccable service. From the glitz of Monte-Carlo to the quaint charm of the Old Town, the options include top restaurants in Monaco to satisfy every palate and occasion.
Michelin-Starred Highlights
Monaco is home to several Michelin – starred establishments where every dish marries art flavor.
Le Louis XV – Alain Ducasse
A global symbol of Mediterranean haute cuisine, Le Louis XV – Alain Ducass at Hôtel de Paris Mont – Carlo holds three Michelin stars. With sumptuous décor and a wine cellar that’s among the world’s largest, it’s a symbol of culinary excellence.
Restaurant Joël Robuchon Monte – Carlo
Restaurant Joël Robuchon Monte-Carlo delivers modern French gastronomy in exquisite tasting menus. The restaurant remains a Paris legend transplanted to Monaco, known for its perfect execution and warm sophistication.
Blue Bay Monaco
Chef Marcel Ravin’s Blue Bay combines Caribbean flair, Mediterranean techniques, and panoramic marina views. Awarded two Michelin Stars, it brings a vibrant celebration of fusion cuisine.
Yoshi
Nestled in the Metropole, Yoshi brings authentic Japanese cuisine with French refinement. Its elegant, minimalist setting lets the delicate, refined flavours shine, making it one of the best restaurants in Monaco for sushi lovers.
Elsa
Elsa at Monte-Carlo Beach was the first restaurant in Monaco to earn a Michelin star with a purely organic menu. Known for Mediterranean dishes that highlight seasonal, local, and eco-conscious cuisine, Elsa is perfect for diners seeking elegance with sustainability.
Gourmet Dining with a View
For spectacular vistas paired with superb food, these venues offer some of the best restaurants in Monaco for dinner and the best restaurants in Monaco for lunch.
La Marée
Situated by the harbor, La Marée specializes in fresh seafood – oysters, shellfish, and seasonal fish – served on a sunlit terrace overlooking superyachts. A perfect, relaxed lunch or dinner spot.
Café de Paris Monte – Carlo
Iconic and timeless, Café de Paris Monte-Carlo sits right beside the Casino and remains open daily from breakfast through late night. It blends classic brasserie fare with Mediterranean influences in a setting that quintessentially ‘Tout Monaco’.
Nobu Fairmont Mont Carlo
The famed Nobu Fairmont brings its signature high-end Japanese-Latin fusion to a sleek, stylish environment. With harbour views and creative sushi dishes, it’s the top choice for a glamorous dinner.
Hidden Gems and Local Favourites in Monaco’s Old Town
Away from the glitz of Monte-Carlo, Monaco-Ville (the Old Town) hides some real treasures.
L’Obervatoire
This cozy, intimate spot in the Old Town offers inventive, well – crafted dishes in a candlelit atmosphere, perfect for a romantic evening or refined lunch away from the tourist trail.
U Cavagnetu
Operating since 1967, U Cavagnetu brings hearty Corsican and Monégasque flavors – octopus, stuffed vegetables, rustic seafood – in a warm, welcoming family – run setting just steps from the Prince’s Palace
La Montgolfière
Chef Henri Geraci’s creative approach infuses French cuisine with subtle influences from Japan and beyond. Open for both lunch and dinner (closed Sundays & Wednesdays), La Montgolfière has earned consistent praise, including mentions in Michelin and Trip Advisor.
Best Restaurants for Lunch and Dinner in Monaco
Here’s a quick guide to choosing the perfect meal occasion:
For Lunch
- La Montgolfière (seasonal fixed – price slate menu)
- U Cavagnetu (traditional Corsican/ Monégasque dishes)
- Café de Paris Monte – Carlo (brasserie- style midday meals_
For Dinner
- Le Louis XV or Blue Bay (special occasion luxury)
- Joël Robuchon or Yoshi (refined tasting menus)
- La Marée or Nobu (Panoramic Evening Vibes)
Monaco FAQs:
Monaco is home to several world – renowned restaurants including Le Louis XV – Alain Ducasse, Blue Bay, Joël Robuchon Monte-Carlo, and Nobu. These offer exceptional fin dining experiences with Michelin stars and breathtaking views.
For authentic Monégasque and Corsican dishes, head to local favorites like U Cavagnetu and La Montgolfiére in Monaco’s Old Town. These hidden gems serve traditional recipes in a cozy, welcoming setting.
Yes, 212 Yachts offers exclusive concierge services that include priority bookings at the best restaurants in Monaco, as well as private transport and bespoke onboard dining experiences.
Absolutely. La Marée, Café de Paris Monte-Carlo, and Nobu Fairmont offer delicious cuisine paired with stunning views of the harbour or the city, perfect for a scenic and relaxing lunch.
Monaco’s top restaurants specialise in Mediterranean, French, and fusion cuisine. Expect fresh seafood, refined French gastronomy, Japanese influences, and organic fine dining
How 212 Yachts Enhances Your Monaco Culinary Experience
For an exclusive way to enjoy Monaco’s exceptional dining scene, 212 Yachts offers yacht concierge services tailored to gastronomes.
- Exclusive restaurant reservations at any of the top addresses – even Michelin – starred favourites, often fully booked
- Private Transport via yacht shuttle or luxury car, ensuring seamless dinner transitions and stylish harbour arrivals
- Bespoke onboard dining experiences – imagine a gourmet lunch or multi – course dinner crafted by a private chef on board, with scenic views of the Riviera.
- Tailored itinerary packages, combining fine dining with cultural tours, wine tastings, and VIP access to Monaco’s elite venues.
With 212 Yachts, you’re not just visiting the best restaurants in Monaco; you’re crafting an immersive culinary journey aligned with the epitome of Riviera sophistication.