2 Best Restaurants in Bordeaux and the Wine Country, France

L'Estacade

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Le tout Bordeaux comes to this trendy glass-encased restaurant, which hangs spectacularly over the Garonne River, for its privileged views of Bordeaux proper and the 18th-century Place de la Bourse on the opposite bank. The cuisine is creative but not edgy (imagine sesame-and-soy-marinated veal, or mullet tartare with cream and fish eggs), while the wine list focuses on young Bordeaux. The setting is sleek modern with a casual, sometimes noisy crowd. The city lights make views better at night.

Quai de Queyries, Bordeaux, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, 33100, France
05–57–54–02–50
Known For
  • river views by day, city views by night
  • contemporary, sleek atmosphere
  • quiet location away from the bustle of the city center

Le Plaisance

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Decorated with rustic wood tables and old wine barrels, this popular bistro-wine bar serves a respectable menu of French standard dishes. But the real allure is the 48 local Côtes de Bourg and Côtes de Blaye wines served by the glass and more than 100 by the bottle, which can also be purchased to go from the "cave" on site, not to mention a breezy outdoor terrace with views of the river. Musical evenings and later hours make for a fun evening out.