8 of the Best Michelin-Starred Chefs in Vendée 

Nestled along the Atlantic coast, the Vendée region is a treasure trove for gastronomes seeking exceptional culinary experiences. With one prestigious Michelin three-star establishment and several one-star gems, Vendée’s finest restaurants celebrate local ingredients and innovative techniques and showcase the passion of their dedicated chefs. It’s the perfect way to savour a real taste of Vendée. 

Alexandre Couillon – La Marine (3 Michelin Stars) 

In the picturesque setting of Noirmoutier-en-l’Île, Chef Alexandre Couillon’s La Marine stands as a beacon of culinary artistry. Facing the fishing port of L’Herbaudière, the restaurant offers a contemporary black and white décor that complements its refined menu. Couillon’s dishes celebrate the essence of the sea and the local terroir, with ingredients often sourced from his own garden. His meticulous approach ensures that each dish resonates with authenticity and creativity. In 2023, La Marine was honoured with its third Michelin star, making it the sole establishment in Vendée to achieve this distinction that year. 

Next door to La Marine is Élise, a fishmonger-cum-restaurant run by Alexandre Couillon’s wife, Céline. As well as a stylishly impressive selection of fresh fish to buy at the counter, this relaxed eatery, with wooden tables, exposed beams and nautical décor, is the perfect spot for seasonal, high-quality local produce. 

Simon Bessonnet – La Maison Desamy (1 Michelin Star) 

Situated on the banks of the Lay River in Mareuil-sur-Lay, La Maison Desamy is the culinary haven of Chef Simon Bessonnet. The restaurant boasts an elegant atmosphere, with options to dine overlooking the cellar or on a serene terrace. Bessonnet’s refined cuisine earned him his first Michelin star in 2023, recognising his dedication to quality and innovation. 

Nathan Cretney – Les Reflets (1 Michelin Star) 

At Les Reflets in La Roche-sur-Yon, Welsh Chef Nathan Cretney, alongside his partner Solen, offers a dining experience marked by an inventive approach to cuisine, which was acknowledged with a Michelin star in 2023. The restaurant invites guests to explore a menu that challenges conventions while honouring local ingredients. 

Boris Harispe – L’Abissiou (1 Michelin Star) 

In the coastal town of Les Sables d’Olonne, Chef Boris Harispe’s L’Abissiou presents a delicate and refined menu that evolves with the seasons. Harispe’s commitment to sourcing local products and collaborating with regional producers culminated in the restaurant receiving its first Michelin star in 2023. 

Jean-Marc Pérochon – Les Brisants (1 Michelin Star) 

Overlooking the wild coast of Brétignolles-sur-Mer, Les Brisants is helmed by Chef Jean-Marc Pérochon, a native of the region and a passionate ambassador for Vendée’s culinary heritage. Since earning its first Michelin star in 2014, the restaurant has delighted patrons with dishes that marry local seafood and poultry with exotic flavours inspired by Pérochon’s global experiences. 

Nicolas Coutand – Les Genêts (1 Michelin Star) 

In Brem-sur-Mer, Chef Nicolas Coutand’s Les Genêts offers a gastronomic journey that emphasises fresh, local products from both land and sea. Set in a former townhouse surrounded by landscaped grounds, the restaurant provides a tranquil setting for Coutand’s elegant and flavourful creations. Recognised as a young talent by the Gault & Millau guide in 2014, Coutand’s dedication was further affirmed with a Michelin star in 2017. 

Xavier Giraudet – La Robe (1 Michelin Star) 

Located in Montaigu, La Robe is the domain of Chef Xavier Giraudet, whose culinary philosophy is rooted in precision, refinement and taste. Drawing inspiration from his experiences in Parisian kitchens, Giraudet reinvents classic dishes with seasonal twists, resulting in a menu that is both familiar and innovative. His efforts were rewarded with a Michelin star in February 2017. 

Benjamin Patissier – La Chabotterie (1 Michelin Star) 

At the historic Logis de la Chabotterie in Saint-Sulpice-le-Verdon, Chef Benjamin Patissier, accompanied by his wife Audrey, offers an exceptional dining experience. A recipient of the prestigious Meilleur Ouvrier de France title in 2015, Patissier’s culinary prowess was recognised in 2022. Guests here are invited to savour dishes that reflect both the chef’s virtuosity and the rich history of the venue. 

www.in-vendee.com 

Lead photo credit : Les Brisants