Where to eat out near Millau Viaduct Aveyron

Close to the awesome Millau Viaduct, and providing a surreal backdrop),is the ancient town of Millau. It’s home to a rich history and beautiful architecture, Roman pottery and fine leather glove making. It’s a pretty town and also a good place to stop off to enjoy a leisurely bite to eat and enjoy the stunning scenery of Aveyron. A feast not just for your eyes, but Millau has some lovely restaurants too…

Restaurants near the Millau Viaduct

A great place to start on this culinary trail is at the unassuming looking Restaurant Capion. Tucked away very close to the heart of the city, you’ll find a good mix of traditional, local recipes and ingredients including Roquefort and Aligot, combined with more international ideas. They also offer a very reasonably priced express menu for lunch during the week. It includes three courses and a ¼ bottle of wine for a terrific price. It has a simple and modern feel and the dishes are a treat for the eye. www.restaurant-capion.fr

For something a little more modern try the Restaurant Estanco. The chef here describes his cuisine as inspired by the ‘near and far’ of his travels. He specialises in fish and seafood dishes and combines everything from Creole to classic French with lots of colour and spice. www.estanco.fr

Specialities and atmoshperic

Based around the idea of a tea room (hence it’s known as Cake’t), this small but welcoming restaurant serves a very reasonably priced lunch. It’s a real delight. The husband and wife team are charming hosts. They’re happy to explain their dishes, they include fabulous soups and fresh bread, in detail and with a great deal of pride. Or if you have time or space for nothing more, why not just catch your breath for a while and enjoy a slice of their cake.

Whilst it may look humble from the outside, Au Jeu De Paume is set in a beautifully restored old building. There’s an open fire, beamed ceilings and a lovely terraced courtyard. You’ll enjoy local specialities here and can watch the larger meat cuts being cooked on an open grill. It’s thoroughly atmospheric and their two or three course ‘formule’ is very reasonable. www.aujeudepaume-millau.com

Finally, if you fancy getting away from the hustle and bustle of Millau, then why not take a 7 km detour to the beautiful village of Peyre. The only restaurant in the village, it sits above the river with great views across the countryside. You can see the Millau viaduct in the distance too. It’s reasonably simple food but good quality, good value for money and with a welcoming feel. www.facebook.com/LEstival

Don’t forget to enjoy some of the local cheese – Roquefort. Roquefort cheese, can only be called Roquefort if its matured in the caves of Rouquefort-sur-Soulzon as it has been for 1000 years…

And finally, while you’re there, head to the top of the Medieval Belfry for a stunning view over the Millau Viaduct.