Tours may sit in the shadow of the grand châteaux that line the Loire Valley, but this vibrant university city has quietly built a dining scene that rivals the region’s famous architecture. From timber-framed medieval squares to sleek modern brasseries, the culinary landscape here is defined by a commitment to the terroir of the Touraine region. It is a place where the humble rillette is treated with the same reverence as a Michelin-starred tasting menu.
The local markets, particularly Les Halles, overflow with goat cheeses like Sainte-Maure de Touraine, fresh river fish, and the crisp white wines of Vouvray and Montlouis. Chefs in this city have a distinct advantage: they are surrounded by the "Garden of France." This proximity to farms, vineyards, and orchards means menus change frequently, often daily, based on what is pulled from the ground that morning.
For a visitor, navigating this gastronomic wealth can be overwhelming. Do you seek out the traditional bistrot à vin hidden down a cobblestone lane, or do you reserve a table at a contemporary hotspot where young chefs are redefining French classics? The correct answer is usually both. Tours offers a remarkable density of quality dining within a very walkable center, making it an ideal city for a culinary pilgrimage.
The best restaurants here share a common thread: a deep respect for ingredients and a genuine warmth in their service. You will rarely find the stiff formality of Parisian dining; instead, expect a convivial atmosphere where the wine flows freely and the owners often stop by your table to explain the provenance of a particular mushroom or cheese. It is this authenticity that makes eating out in Tours feel less like a transaction and more like an invitation into the culture.
This guide aims to cut through the noise and direct you to the tables that locals actually fight over. We have considered not only the quality of the food but the atmosphere, the value, and the consistency of the experience. Whether you are looking for a romantic dinner, a quick lunch between museum visits, or a deep dive into natural wines, this list has a seat waiting for you.
To help you navigate the best the city has to offer, we have curated a selection of establishments that represent the pinnacle of dining in Tours right now.
La Maison des Halles
| Address | 19 Pl. des Halles, 37000 Tours |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM, 7:30 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM, 7:30 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM, 7:30 – 10:00 PM Friday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM, 7:30 – 10:30 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM, 7:30 – 10:30 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 02 47 39 96 90 |
We came here for dinner on our visit to Tours. Firstly, the staff were very friendly and accommodating to our young baby. I speak a little French, but the waitress was very patient with me. Of the starters, you have to try the egg, asparagus and focaccia, it was just beautiful!!! The salmon tartar was ok, but nothing amazing. The coriander seeds and fennel overpower the salmon, which lacked a bit of flavour. For the main course we both had the Octopus, which was just fantastic! I would definitely recommend this, and it was the highlight of the dinner. The octopus was very cooked well. For desert my wife got the chocolate ball (Pétanque), which was very light and hit the spot! Not too heavy, just perfect. I got the lemon curd desert, but I have to say the chef was trying too hard with this. There was far too much going on. There was a cream, then a lemon curd, more cream, a meringue on top, with white chocolate, a sorbet and meringue pieces. It’s just too much, and way too sweet. I would suggest not trying to have too many elements, and simplifying it, because the lemon curd was delicious
I have knocked a star off because the salmon was a bit bland and the lemon desert was too sweet for my liking. But overall this was a nice restaurant and a tasty meal
Had a very French dinner here together with colleagues, highly recommended by local, amazing food with big potion, my salad was exceptional Asian infusion style, main course l’agnean en deux facon was tender and the delicious in both way, desert was inspired by a famous French game I can barely finish all, the staff were very friendly always with a smell at face and introduced the menu in English patiently
You better book (3rd time lucky for us).
This place has been recommended by many local friends… it was just the best experience we had in France. The food was fine, delicate, delicious and great wine list (small producer of the region)
Our favorite dish was an entre an egg.. yes an egg.. but a way to cook it and prepare it: just magnificent. Congrats to the chef ! We will be back !
An amazing thanks to the team and to Sylvestre....such a fantastic time. Such good food.... OMG
You can't miss this place...
The best ever sweetbread I've ever eaten in my entire life.... that's to say....even l'Arpège was nice...but that crunchy coating.... Somptueux
Wine selection to perfection....
Excellent food, service and atmosphere. Staff were kind, attentif and helpful. There was a “stagiaire” who looked after us tonight, and he was wonderful. If you read my review - thank you!
The menu was incredible, and I wish I could have ordered everything. While they do not offer a menu deal, the food is very good value for price and fair for the quality. I would come back here again and again, and recommend it highly to any curious foodies in the region. They were also very accommodating to a gluten allergy.
CHEZ MADIE
| Address | 37 Rue Briçonnet, 37000 Tours |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM Friday: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM Saturday: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM Sunday: 5:00 – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | 02 47 05 12 81 |
We had an absolutely delightful dinner at Chez Madie. The service was very friendly, helpful, and professional. The draft beer selection was good. The lambic was delicious. The steak was tender and delicious. The eggplant was very tasty. The perfectly prepared fritters were crunchy on the outside and moist and tender on the inside. The desserts were sweet delights. The ambiance was fantastic. The dining room was very nicely decorated, and the acoustics were great for a pleasant dinner conversation. Great people, great food, and great location.
Friendly and accomodating staff.
the tuna tataki salad with passion fruit vinegarette was tasted fresh
Duck breast for my mains was cooked exactly complemented by parmesan sauce.
I was there for lunch. Food was delicious. Staffs were friendly. Set menu with starter and main were 24 euro. Good value.
Croustillants de pommes de terre et magrets de canard were amazing as well as kefta. All other places were mostly offering charcuterie boards, but here the choice of tapas was great.
Lovely tapas restaurant on the old square of Tours. Lots of tables outside and a great atmosphere. The food was delicious- a different take on tapas with local produce.
A good selection of local wines too. Would definitely come back!
Restaurant Les Canailles
| Address | 123 Rue Colbert, 37000 Tours |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: Closed Thursday: 7:00 – 10:00 PM Friday: 7:00 – 10:30 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:30 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | 02 47 61 54 33 |
A good but value option bistro in Tours. We sat outside and enjoyed the evening vibes. Food was Ok, good enough quality but not what you get elsewhere. Equally, it was a little cheaper. Not best suited for large groups. Totally adequate.
This is a small family own restaurant The food is delicious. The service great they had the menu in English. The girls speak English. They were helpful, informative, and very professional. I had the sea bass which was excellent with some vegetables first I had the hot cheese with walnuts and maple syrup, which was just too good we also had the polenta good and the pork chop, which was good a little tough but good they came with potatoes those creamy potatoes that make you say oh my God too many calories, but you eat them anyway, I also had the chocolate cake with ice cream. The chocolate cake was not as good as I had hoped because it has that melted chocolate in the center and that’s not something I really like, but I did have some of it. it was a nice dining experience in France, I can’t really get that kind in the states. This kind of home cooking creative food. That only the French really know how to make if you’re in the area make sure you make reservations
Cosy restaurant with side walk seating and good French classics that tastes amazing for the prices. They have a selection of local wines too. We went at 7pm and they were all fully booked except for outside seating. So please call to reserve if you want a table.
We look for regional cuisine in Tours, what this restaurant is.
The appetizer were good, the main dish was disappointing. The vegetables were barely warm and the fish was very small and was not a legal size for me to keep when I go fishing.
The desert was microscopic...
And to finish the bill was substantial... 💲💲💲.
We enjoyed a 3 course formule for lunch. Service was warm and friendly, and the venue was entertaining for people watching along the busy street. The food was very good and looked like art!
Restaurant Le Turon
| Address | 94 Rue Colbert, 37000 Tours |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM, 7:00 – 9:30 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: Closed Thursday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM, 7:00 – 9:30 PM Friday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM, 7:00 – 9:30 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM, 7:00 – 9:30 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM, 7:00 – 9:30 PM |
| Phone | 02 47 66 14 25 |
A fantastic dining experience in Tours! Booking through the restaurant’s website was easy and highly recommended, as almost every table was occupied when we arrived. We ordered 2 starters and 2 mains, all delicious, with complimentary rillettes served after ordering. Great food, attentive service, and an overall perfect experience!
Really delicious food and friendly staff. We were encouraged to try the recommended appetizer of the day: lobster roll, and it truly did not disappoint! Fresh lobster, and the dishes were very well plated. Even the potato gratin was made so delectably with ultra thin slices and melt-in-your-mouth buttery texture. Very interesting old-style decor with two different types of walls on either side. Definitely recommended!
Booked last minute on the day of. So glad I did as we witnessed many people being turned away who didn't have reservations. Main floor of restaurant seats 34 & outdoor seats 8.
There is a basement which may be good for large groups but some without reservations weren't interested once they took a look.
Staff were very friendly, speak good English & were busy working as a team to service the customers.
Had the smoked ham croquettes which were on the daily specials board. Then had the cod from the everyday menu. Both were excellently prepared. Even the amuse bouche was a delicious tune pâté. Washed it all down with a nice glass of blanc de blanc champagne.
Great place to go for a delicious slow lunch. Went as a group of 3 so got to try 3 different entrees, mains and desserts which were all good. The ceviche was the highlight with it's fresh, tangy flavours. The cheesecake also deserves a call out with it's creaminess, balanced with Greek yoghurt and blueberry sauce.
A friend recommended we try this restaurant during our recent visit to Tours and we were not disappointed. Both the service and the food were excellent. Save room for dessert because the chocolate mousse and panna cotta are not to be missed!
OBist’Ro
| Address | 9 Rue Gambetta, 37000 Tours |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM Friday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM, 7:30 – 9:00 PM Saturday: 12:30 – 2:30 PM, 7:30 – 9:30 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 02 47 05 45 22 |
Great choice. From the outside the restaurant looks simple but the food is very nice. The menu consists of 3 choices for each course and all were excellent. We were with 4 and all enjoyed the quality and the presentation of the dishes. The wine suggested was also a good fit.
Great restaurant away from the tourist bits in Tours. The menu is short but you can tell that is done for a reason, everything we tried tasted great. The mackerel and the croquettes as starters were both excellent. The “catch of the day” was delicious and a generous portion. Dessert was very chocolatey, exactly the kind of finish you want. Very friendly and helpful service too.
We recently enjoyed an incredible dinner here in our trip. The staff was very welcoming and friendly. The dishes were so beautiful and tasted even better, a really outstanding meal in a comfortable bright restaurant. You must visit if you’re in Tours!
This was a very unassuming restaurant that we found on the street and it deserves more recognition than it has on here. The food was amazing from the start to finish. The wine suggestion was really good as well. I would highly recommend this restaurant if you are in Tours, it might not be on a well known street but it’s calm and definitely worth a visit.
Delicious lunch and really good value for money. The owner was delightful as was his wife. Thoroughly recommend the white asparagus and profiteroles
Brasserie Tours - Le Onze
| Address | 11 Pl. de la Résistance, 37000 Tours |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 09 81 67 77 07 |
It is a very nice place run by father and son, being so very kind. The food was truly great! Very good value for money for 'the menu du moment' at 1.30 pm. Not cramped in by tourists. We had a lovely time! Thank you.
We went there after reading all the positive comments. So our expectations were high and we had come from the next town over to try it out! maybe it was a bad day for us but I don’t understand the hype .We took three lunch menues. It wasn’t good.
The starter was okay, avocado mush with sea food. The burger was really good, the seafood mix was okay and the portion was plentiful, I took the goulash which came in half the portion of the seafood mix, it was burnt and watery so I only ate half of it, I got the last remains of the pot. I mentioned to the staff that it was burnt, she acted surprised then carried on her business. Desert was below average especially when you compare it with the cafes and pastry shops in the town. We ate because we were famished and cold but it wasn’t deserving of such high praise, It’s a nice enough place but based on our experience doesn’t deserve all the hype. With every bite I was hoping it would get better but it didn’t.
the restaurant itself isn’t cosy, it’s small and the decor neither here or there, drink wise stay away from the organic wine.
Our first time in Tours, simple and cozy restaurant, friendly and warm welcoming, service was excellent and staff was super friendly, smiley and fun. Food was great we took a formula and we have enjoyed it. I recommend this place to everyone coming to Tours and looking for nice homemade food (especially desserts). I would return back to this restaurant when i visit tour again. Toilet was so clean which is a plus for me. Note: they are dog friendly and they got my dog water two times. My dog looks scary but she’s super friendly, even other guests played with my dog.
Very good Salad Italienne and also very good service. I would say the best service in a restaruant we got in our 3 days France. I can only recommand this Bar/Restaurant
Excellent cuisine and attentive service, though pricey.
Le Céci’Bon
| Address | 35 Rue Briçonnet, 37000 Tours |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM, 7:00 – 9:30 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM, 7:00 – 9:30 PM Thursday: 7:00 – 9:00 PM Friday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM, 7:00 – 9:30 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM, 7:00 – 9:30 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 09 86 50 81 56 |
A little restaurant near the busy plaza. We were seated inside underground. Even though we couldn't speak French, the staff was still super helpful. The food was amazing, one of our favourite meals during our trip. The chicken and fish was amazing and the starter was great too. Would highly recommend
This restaurant definitely does not deserve to be one with the best rating (4.7/5.0). I do not know how this rating is received (I have suspicions) but it appears to be truly artificial.
The restaurant is at good place, at the corner of the main square of the old city but they do not have even a menu, neither on paper, nor with QR code. The only menu is in French and it is written on a black board in front of the restaurant which cannot be seen from the inside. When the hostess came she just turned the black board toward the table in order we to choose. However, as I mentioned it was only in French and difficult to be read.
The most important issue is that the dishes were not well prepared. The meat was very difficult to cut and eat due to the fact that it was served in very deep dishes (for soup) which were impropriate to use a knife. It is the same as to try to cut a meat in a vase. It is difficult, is not it?
The organization of the service is also completely impropriate. Instead to pay attention and present the menu immediately after somebody is sited, the hostess chooses to complete the order of the previous guest, serving all they ordered before coming to receive the order of the new guests. I suppose the reason for such organization is exactly because there is not a menu on paper which to be presented on the new guests. It should be mentioned as well the loud shouts of the cook (or a person behind the bar) who in such a way asked for fast reaction from the hostess or somebody else in the kitchen.
It appears that it is a new restaurant with very enthusiastic young people who would like to develop it, but that happens with heard work and devotion and not with rating manipulations.
However, I should conclude that the recipes are really interesting and non-ordinary (for example a cold avocado soup with a veil egg) but there is much more to be done in order to attract loyal customers!
Great place to eat, the place is very unusual as you are invited to eat downstairs in a lovely underground, bright and cosy! The food was very tasty and the inimitable humour of the owner definitely made it one of a place !
Prices are a little high, but choosing the menu would cover your hunger for a little less money
Would come back again !
An hidden gem, in a corner of the historical Place Plumereau, definitely better than other "bigger" restaurants close by. Food is simply superb, the selection is rather small because everyday the menu changes. Service was fast and precise. Will return, undoubtedly!
We had an amazing dinner at Le Céci’Bon. The menu is simple, but all of them desserves. The service is outstanding, nothing to say. I’m surprised to get an excellent experience with such a price. Thank you Le Céci’Bon!
Le Chien Fou Tours
| Address | 7 Rue de la Grosse Tour, 37000 Tours |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 – 10:00 PM Friday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | 02 36 97 58 70 |
I rarely get emotional over food, but quality ingredients, skilled cooking, thoughtful service and a warm farmhouse atmosphere all in one room reached me at the core. Taste, look, smell, sound, presentation, all of it landed. This is the France I come back for. How this place sits at 4.5 stars is beyond me. It deserves the trip, the wait, whatever it takes.
We arrived to a warm, brief welcome from the maître d', who showed us to our table and then, knowing we were after wine, pointed us toward the cellar at the back. The cellar is small and packed, and you are welcome to browse the bottles yourself. We were the first table of the evening and a bit early, so he joined us inside and guided the choice. The tasting confirmed it. Spot on for the food, and exactly to our taste.
Back at the table, we looked over the menu. The marrow bone arrived fast, generous, the marrow thick and rich, finished with fleur de sel and a meat jus reduction, served over two slices of bread.
The bread itself is worth a paragraph. They keep a huge multi-grain miche at the front of the dining room and slice from it throughout the service. It matched every dish and every sauce.
The room is part of it too. Old beams, warm light, brick and timber walls, and black and white photos of Belmondo, Delon and other icons of French cinema watching over the tables. It feels like a French farmhouse that somehow ended up in the heart of Tours.
The pan-fried vegetables came first, and my partner said they were the best she had ever tasted. I am inclined to agree. Then the côte de bœuf, brought to the table in a copper pan on a bed of freshly fired herbs and grasses, still smoking and glowing at the edges. The aroma alone was part of the dish. It was cooked exactly as we asked, even though we wanted it a touch more done than they usually serve. With hindsight, I should have trusted their recommendation; the meat was so tender it would have been just as good rarer.
Finishing the bottle, more conversation, and the careful attention of the maître d' kept on throughout the evening, even as the kitchen fired up and the room filled in around us. He never lost the thread of our table.
We reserved online the day before as we saw that Sunday dinner would be a difficult day/time to dine in Tours. They replied quickly which we appreciated very much because another restaurant didn’t respond for over a day only to say sorry, we can’t take you. We were given a choice of indoor or on the patio and we sprung for outdoor seating as the indoor seating was in close quarters with the strong smell of the kitchen and a family dining with a small infant/child. The pros: a-by the glass wine pours were generous; b-portion sizes are likewise generous (come hungry); c-the dining vibe is family style with mains served in a casserole or serving platter and sides in a shared bowl with separate dining plates; d-fresh meat/fish/chicken; e- tasty stuffing for the fish and chicken; f-lived the seeded bread served (crunchy crust and soft fluffy inside) Cons: a-bit too salty (especially the roasted seasonable vegetables and the stuffings for fish and chicken) b- grilled corner of bread served with the bone marrow was nearly inedible (tough day old bread resuscitated with butter/garlic/parsley). Overall it totally hit the mark for a Sunday dinner.
The food at Le Chien Fou was generally good, and we appreciated that they were able to seat us without a reservation. However, the salad did not seem very fresh, with visible signs on the leaves, and the food took quite a long time to arrive. Unfortunately, just as we were about to leave, a small roach crawled onto the table, which really affected the overall experience.
The perfect dinner in Tours
We had 1 night in Tours and much like you reading these reviews, we didn’t know where to have dinner. And what a pleasant surprise Le Chien Fou was. It ended up being one of those special meals we will remember forever.
First, if you’re a wine lover, your meal starts with a visit to the restaurants wine cellar room where one of the staff will help you choose a bottle of wine. We chose Chateau La Negly La Falaise which was perfect - bold, smooth, silky.
For mains we had the Duck and the Chicken - the duck was incredible, tender and in a delicious orange glaze. Probably one of the best duck dishes we’ve ever had. Then comes the chicken - at first I was like “do I really want chicken?” - yes, yes you do. Tender, juicy, full of flavor - the best chicken ever.
And to top it off the service was incredibly attentive and friendly. Our waiter even gave us tips for rest of our road trip through France.
The restaurant is also dog friendly, ensuring we had a comfortable space for our dog.
This will be a meal to remember. Enjoy!
Best of show... Under a pergola of flowers. Amazing meal and wine. If you want a digestive ask for the Trou Tourangeau, something wonderful will happen. Bone Marrow was supreme. They do doggy bags... When ordering wine they will take you in to their wine cave.
Au jardin Comme à La Maison
| Address | 21 Rue Constantine, 37000 Tours |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 PM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 PM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 PM – 12:00 AM Friday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 PM – 2:00 AM Saturday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 PM – 2:00 AM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 06 70 88 41 68 |
We just had a wonderful dinner at Comme à La Maison. We weren't sure what restaurant to pick, but I'm really happy that we chose this one. It is intimate and cozy, totally authentically local and quite high quality. The food was very delicious, and the cocktails and wines were amazing. The couple running the place were super friendly, spoke great English, and were undeniably skilled in the culinary arts. They accommodated our picky kid quite readily as well. At the end of an amazing meal, I got an education in the finer points of the different kinds of Chartreuse digestifs, with the kind of explanations and descriptions which you can only get from a true expert. I certainly recommend you try this place for a nice leisurely fine dining experience.
Upstairs very small private space. Fabulous food. We’ve been in France four weeks and best meal yet. Ava (sp) was the cook. The cheese quiche was superb. My wife had chicken and I had a vegetable plate. Excellent. Cab Franc from Loire Valley topped off the meal. Excellent service from our waiter.
Excellent dinner at Au Jardin. We had the 3 course, chefs tasting. It was reasonably priced especially for the location. We enjoyed everything served. Some of our standout favorites were the goat cheese and foie gras. Highly recommend it for anyone in the area. 10/10.
A small place with a lot of heart and soul. We had the veal and what we call in Canada steel head fish (a cross between salmon and trout). Before dinner we had the “Complete” (various cheese and meats with bread served on a wooden board). All of it was excellent and the waiter was very helpful to ensure we had the best experience. The local beer was excellent too. Highly recommend this place and will be back when we come to Tours again.
We loved our relaxing visit here. Our party of 5 was taken care of very well by the owner and the lovely chef. The food was great, we had the lasagna and fish and chips, plus excellent cocktails and good wine recommendations. The owner even gave us tips on local wine tasting places in Chinon. He obviously cares very much about his guests' experiences.
Restaurant N.Y.C
| Address | 21 Rue des Déportés, 37000 Tours |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 12:00 – 6:30 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 6:30 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 9:00 PM Friday: 12:00 – 9:00 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 9:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 06 17 03 13 61 |
The food and service were great. The staff were friendly and paid attention to our needs.
We had the kid's menu, burger and steak and they tasted fantastic. My burger was well seasoned, moist and yummy. The chips were cut differently, crunchy and soft.
We stopped off in Tours on a whim whilst driving back from the South and hadn't booked anywhere for dinner. We had a beer nearby and had searched for nearby restaurants, thinking this was a USA themed burger bar I suggested to my partner and we duly attended. I was quite surprised that it looked like a very nice brasserie. We were greeted by the friendly owner who sat us down and presented the menu. Throughout the meal the service received by the owner was impeccable, she clearly prides herself on classic French service. We never once had to fill our own wine glass as whenever we got near the bottom it was filled for us. The food was beautifully presented and tasted wonderful.
This restaurant is a hidden gem and a credit to the owner. You won't regret eating here.
Great restaurant and amazing dishes at a reasonable price. The service was friendly, professional, and professional.
The atmosphere was relaxing and we enjoyed our dinning experience.
Highly recommended
Merci !
The 2 New-Yorkers
Despite the name (the lady of the house lived for some years in New York, she told us) this is a classic French restaurant serving traditional cuisine and with pride shown in delivering proper French service but in surrounding that are clearly a nod to the Big Apple. The couple running the restaurant are passionate and the food was as tasty as the service was friendly and efficient. Amuse bouche were served between courses. We were delighted to stumble on this place and in an area full of good places to eat, from what we saw, we can well recommend taking the time to visit - you won't regret it! We had 3 courses and thoroughly enjoyed them all.
Very good food for the price and location. Dishes were extremely solid and delicious and the staff was friendly and helpful. Would happily dine there again!
Capsule - L'instant parfait
| Address | 14 Pl. du Grand Marché, 37000 Tours |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Friday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 02 47 20 92 11 |
The waitress was very polite and responsive. Front of house was 5/5, she took great care of us. Unfortunately, our meats were not cooked correctly. We asked for medium and they were rare. The seasoning of my burger was not mixed well so some bites were very over salted. The tenders, fries and dips were good.
There is a lot to choose from in Tours and the city centre. This is not fancy, but suitable for a light meal. They basically have three burgers on their menu and at least two of them is pulled pork or pulled beaf. So far so good. The staff is very sweet and friendly and we really felt they did what they could. BUT we waited very long for our food and the the burgers were cold. The fries were nice and hot, but the pulled beef was a disappointment. 0,5 l beer was nearly 9 euros and that is frankly too much. If the beer had been a bit cheaper and the burgers a bit better, I would have given it 5 stars. But the burgers are at best mediocre and the beer is expensive. Staff is excellent, and that is why they get 3 stars today.
The presentation of the burgers was beautiful! Yet the burgers were cooked rare! I had asked for the meat to be cooked 3/4, medium well done. Neither my father nor I could finish the burgers. For such an costly meal, the server could have been more thoughtful of our needs and accommodated.
Otherwise, the fried chicken appetizer was great!
Alright, let's talk about this place.
Very detailed and prepared atmosphere.
Beer choice is local and really authentic, it's unknown and an experience.
The burger choice is short but very sure of itself. I chose a Mediterranean Burger with fries and aromatized mayonnaise. It came very graphic, personally I wouldn't expect much more. It was very good but I would recommend having it hotter to give more intensity to the flavor.
The wine was at room temperature or likely 22°C which I understand was a mistake. 7 degrees less would have been appreciated. But it's a mistake and this happens even to the best of us so it's not a big deal.
Oh yes, music was cool. Not to low and not to loud. Just enough to give some vibes with the ability to talk forgetting about it.
Overall it's 5 stars cause I very much liked everything and could feel the work and high quality.
Fantastic food. Make sure you book in advance to have a table.
Classic recipes reinvented!
Very friendly owner.
Don’t miss it when you are in Tours!!
Les Bartavelles
| Address | 33 Rue Colbert, 37000 Tours |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 7:15 – 8:30 PM Thursday: 7:15 – 8:30 PM Friday: 12:00 – 12:45 PM, 7:15 – 8:30 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 12:45 PM, 7:15 – 8:30 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 12:45 PM |
| Phone | 02 47 61 14 07 |
One of the best restaurants/experiences I’ve had in France. The food was amazing and so creative. And madame was incredibly kind and sweet to us. Highly recommend!
Absolutely outstanding! My parents and I dined here during our two weeks in France, and it was by far the restaurant we enjoyed the most. Everything — from the food to the atmosphere — was exceptional, and the evening created core memories for us. Living in Australia, I don’t often get to share such special moments with my family, so this experience meant a great deal. Truly grateful and can’t wait to return! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The quality of the dishes is really good!
Meanwhile there is a charming and friendly Madame who explains each dish very kindly and carefully.
A dining experience far beyond my expectations!
My wife and I recently dined at Les Bartavelles to celebrate our 15th Wedding Anniversary and we had a wonderful time.
Everything, from the warm welcome and personal attention given by front of house hostess Veronique, to the clean and elegant yet modest dining room, to the well presented and creative menu, to the selection of delightful accompanying wines, to the food itself, was absolutely exquisite!
When we initially made our reservation we thought it would be a one time thing to treat ourselves. However, I think it’s safe to say we’ll definitely be making a return visit!
Thank you for giving us such a memorable experience we’ll never forget!
I can understand why it gets the recognition it deserves in the leading restaurant guides.Gault Millau Young Tallent Award 2019. I stumbled on it by accident. The dinner menu is simple, delicious and BEAUTIFULLY presented local produce. The place is small , smart, with yellow table clothes. I had the fixed price menu 'Les Bartavelles', with Noix St Jacques (perfect) followed by the Suggestion du Chef, a surpisingly tender slice of young pork in a simple gravy (jus espice) and boiled potatoes, I let them spoil me with their local wines. The Vouvray was not the very best but the 2019 Chinon met my palate gleefully. Perfect dinner, delightfully served by the chef Ghislain Damaye and his staff - Price for one under euros 100.
Tips for Dining in Tours
While Tours is a welcoming city, understanding the local dining etiquette and logistical quirks will significantly enhance your experience. The rhythm of the day here is specific, and knowing when to eat, what to order, and how to book can be the difference between a good meal and a great one.
1. Book Ahead, Especially on Weekends
Tours has a large student population and a thriving local economy, meaning the best tables are in high demand. Many of the smaller, independent bistros have limited seating and only offer one or two dinner services per night. If you have your heart set on a specific restaurant, call or book online a few days in advance. For Friday and Saturday nights, a week ahead is not unreasonable.
2. Embrace the "Formule" at Lunch
If you are dining on a budget or want to experience high-end cooking without the high-end price tag, eat your main meal at lunch. Almost every restaurant in Tours offers a formule or menu du jour (set menu) at noon. This often includes two or three courses for a fraction of the à la carte dinner price. It is the best value in the city and how most locals dine out.
3. Look for AOC Touraine Wines
While Bordeaux and Burgundy get the global glory, the Loire Valley is a treasure trove for wine lovers. When ordering, ask for local appellations like Chinon, Bourgueil, Vouvray, or Montlouis-sur-Loire. These wines are designed to pair perfectly with the local terroir, particularly the goat cheeses and river fish. They are also often significantly more affordable than their famous counterparts.
4. Understand the "Service Continu"
Many tourist-facing restaurants in France close their kitchens between 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM. However, a growing number of modern bistros and wine bars in Tours offer service continu, meaning they serve food all afternoon. This is a lifesaver if you are arriving on a late train or have spent the day visiting châteaux and missed the traditional lunch window. Check for signs or ask your hotel for recommendations that serve all day.
5. Don’t Skip the Cheese Course
In the Touraine region, cheese is not an afterthought; it is a right of passage. When offered a cheese trolley or a cheese course, say yes. This is where you will find perfectly ripened Sainte-Maure de Touraine, Valençay, and Selles-sur-Cher. The ritual of selecting your cheese before the dessert is a fundamental part of the French dining experience and a true highlight of eating in this specific part of France.
The beauty of dining in Tours lies in its lack of pretense. You can walk into a centuries-old cellar and eat food that feels both rustic and refined, often at a price point that feels generous compared to other French cities. It is a city that rewards the curious eater, the one willing to try a glass of petillant naturel or a dish of andouillette (a local tripe sausage) that they cannot find anywhere else.
Ultimately, the best meal in Tours is the one shared slowly. Allow the rhythm of the city to dictate your pace. Linger over your coffee, chat with the sommelier, and take the long way home through the Place Plumereau. The food here is more than sustenance; it is the heartbeat of the city, and the restaurants listed above are the best places to feel that pulse.
