Top 6 Places to Eat in La Rochelle

Written by Camille Laurent, Celine Fournier, Marcus Kayode, Sebastien Simon
29/08/2025
Elegant French chateau with garden and pond reflection in La Rochelle.
josemiguel67bio jose miguel, Pexels

La Rochelle's culinary scene is vibrant, heavily influenced by its fresh seafood, and offers a wide array of dining experiences from casual local spots to prestigious Michelin-starred restaurants.

1. Restaurant Christopher Coutanceau

Cuisine: Fine Dining Seafood

Perched overlooking Plage de la Concurrence, this three-Michelin-starred establishment provides an unparalleled seafood experience. The contemporary setting, coupled with sweeping bay views, makes it perfect for a luxurious occasion. Guests can indulge in a multi-course 'Sea Voyage' tasting menu, showcasing the chef's expertise and a deep connection to the ocean.

Price: €200+ / $215+ per person for a tasting menu

Getting There: Located on Plage de la Concurrence, it is a short walk from the city center, offering easy access.

2. Les Flots

Cuisine: Refined Seafood

Situated in a charming 18th-century tavern at the foot of the iconic Chaîne Tower, Les Flots offers a refined dining experience with stunning views of the old port. This Michelin-recognized restaurant specializes in ocean-inspired cuisine, providing elegant tasting menus that highlight the freshest catches.

Price: €80-150 / $85-160+ per person for a full meal

Getting There: Found directly on the Old Port, it is easily reachable on foot from the central areas.

3. Bar André

Cuisine: Traditional French Seafood

A true institution in La Rochelle since 1947, Bar André offers a lively and authentic atmosphere right by the Old Port. Its delightfully nautical interior and inviting sidewalk patio provide an ideal setting to enjoy generous platters of fresh, divine seafood.

Price: €40-80 / $45-85 per person

Getting There: Centrally located in the heart of the Old Port, it is well within walking distance of most city attractions.

4. Prao Restaurant

Cuisine: Creative International/French

Tucked a block away from the Old Port in the Saint-Nicolas district, Prao presents an innovative take on international and French cuisine. The restaurant features a contemporary, vibrant design with high ceilings and art, and offers a menu crafted from quality local produce, including good value set menus and vegetarian options.

Price: €25-45 / $27-50 per person for a set menu

Getting There: Located on Rue St-Nicolas, it is easily accessible by foot from the Old Port.

5. Le Panier de Crabes

Cuisine: Authentic Local Seafood

For a truly local experience, Le Panier de Crabes, found in a charming square behind the Vieux-Port, is highly recommended. This unpretentious eatery, often run by local fishermen, specializes in generous seafood platters, offering an authentic taste of the region's coastal bounty.

Price: €30-60 / $32-65 for a seafood platter (variable by size)

Getting There: Situated in Rue de la Fourche, just behind the Vieux-Port, it is easily reached on foot.

6. Bistro Régent La Rochelle Le GABUT

Cuisine: Authentic French Bistro

This casual and authentic French bistro is located very close to the water in the Le Gabut area. It offers a relaxed setting to enjoy savory traditional bistro dishes, known for their high-quality ingredients and straightforward, enjoyable cooking. It is a dog-friendly establishment.

Price: €20-35 / $22-38 per person

Getting There: Found in the Le Gabut district, it is a short walk from the central port area.

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