Top 5 Places to Eat in Nantes

Written by Camille Laurent, Celine Fournier, Marcus Kayode, Sebastien Simon
29/08/2025
Charming riverside view of Nantes, France, showcasing boats, buildings, and autumn scenery.
Jing Zhan, Pexels

Nantes offers a diverse and evolving dining scene, where fresh local ingredients from the land and sea are transformed into creative and traditional dishes, catering to all tastes and budgets.

1. L'Atlantide 1874 - Maison Guého

Cuisine: Modern French, Seafood

Perched gracefully across the water from Île de Nantes, this Michelin-starred restaurant provides a truly refined dining experience. The setting, within a historic 19th-century maison, feels perfectly romantic, offering views of the Loire River. The menu masterfully highlights fresh, seasonal seafood, presenting contemporary fine dining with an emphasis on the ocean's bounty and a carefully curated selection of French wines. It is an ideal spot for a special occasion.

Price: Menus from €100-€200 per person

Getting There: Located at 5 Rue de l'Hermitage. It is a short taxi ride from the city center, or accessible via public transport (check local bus/tram routes to 'Hangar à Bananes' or nearby stops, then a walk).

2. Pickles

Cuisine: Modern French with Asian influences

This bright, industrial-style restaurant, listed in the Michelin Guide, offers an exciting culinary journey. The British chef, Dominic Quirke, is known for his indulgent and bold flavors, drawing inspiration from his travels in Asia and local organic producers. One can expect innovative dishes with interesting taste combinations, and the restaurant is attentive to vegetarian options. The atmosphere is vibrant, often accompanied by a pop/rock soundtrack.

Price: Lunch menus from €27-€45; Dinner menus from €65 per person (excluding drinks)

Getting There: Located on Rue Saint-Léonard, it is within walking distance of the central areas like Talensac Market.

3. L'Aménité

Cuisine: Creative French, Bistronomic

Hidden on a pedestrian street in the lively Bouffay district, this restaurant is a true find for those seeking creative and delicious French cuisine at a reasonable price. The chef, Richard Cornet, focuses on local, seasonal products, delivering innovative dishes that maintain a connection to French culinary traditions. The short, evolving menu, often presented on a slate, ensures freshness and originality. It offers a chic yet unpretentious ambiance, making it suitable for both lunch and dinner.

Price: Lunch menus around €20-€30 per person; Dinner €20-€40

Getting There: Situated in the Bouffay district (near the castle), it is easily reachable by foot from most central Nantes attractions and tram stops like 'Bouffay'.

4. La Cigale

Cuisine: Traditional French Brasserie, Seafood, Pastries

An iconic Nantes institution since 1895, La Cigale is renowned for its magnificent Art Nouveau decor, which is a spectacle in itself. Located opposite the neoclassical Théâtre Graslin, it offers a grand brasserie experience with a menu featuring classic French dishes, a notable selection of seafood (especially oysters), and exquisite pastries. It's a versatile spot, perfect for a chic meal, a family lunch, or simply an indulgent tea-time, offering a lively and elegant atmosphere.

Price: Main courses typically €20-€40; fixed-price menus available. Pastries from €8-€15.

Getting There: Found on Place Graslin, it is centrally located and easily accessible on foot or via tram (Line 1 to 'Médiathèque' or Line 2/3 to 'Commerce', then a short walk).

5. Le Reflet

Cuisine: Homemade French

This restaurant offers a heartwarming dining experience with its focus on delicious, homemade French cuisine, often with generous portions and good vegetarian options. What truly sets Le Reflet apart is its inclusive concept, employing staff with Down syndrome, creating a remarkably warm and kind atmosphere. Reviews consistently highlight the excellent quality of the food and the exceptional, attentive service. It's a place where one can enjoy well-prepared dishes in a truly welcoming environment.

Price: Affordable; typically €15-€30 for a main course or set menu

Getting There: Located at 4 Rue des Trois Croissants, it's a central location, easily walkable from popular areas like Place du Commerce.

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