Les Avisés

Along a road less travelled, it’s worthwhile making your way to Les Avisés, a hotel come restaurant located on the chalky slopes of the Côte des Blancs in Avize. The estate is an extension of Domaine Jacques Selosse, and whilst a visit to the domain may be on the wish-list for many, you’ll be hard-pressed to get an appointment. Opt instead for a light gastronomic meal at their fantastic restaurant then a night or two in their sophisticated rooms.

In the restaurant, Stéphane Rossillon tantalises with seasonal and local highlights and the wine list is seductively long, combining some of the finest offerings from Champagne’s Maisons and growers as well as the rest of France. Menus have been created to best complement the champagne wines of Jacques Selosse, but there are so many others on the list that would do just as well.

Above all, I love the atmosphere of this restaurant that successfully combines fine dining (without a prohibitive price) with a feeling of warmth and casual chic.