Michelin Restaurants in Tarbes
Popôte
This contemporary bistro is near the Arsenal, a neighbourhood undergoing a major rehabilitation. The couple at the helm is formed of a chef with a wealth of Michelin-star experience and his partner, who has changed tack to become a maître d' and sommelier. The cuisine draws on modern trends: wrasse fish stuffed with rabbit and tarragon on a poultry jus, sprinkled with roasted almonds; lamb kofta, pita bread with fromage blanc, coriander sprouts, and chopped parsley for freshness. The chef takes a savvy approach to cooking, especially when it comes to the bargain lunch (different every week). The wine list features wines from independent winegrowers. Booking essential.
Tarbes - FRANCE
L'Arpège
This pair of Japanese chefs cook lovely creative, Japanese - inflected cuisine, in which broths, seaweed and seasonings show off good - quality ingredients. The interior, in keeping with the presentation on the plates, is elegant and contemporary.
Tarbes - FRANCE
L'Empreinte
Solid oak tables, custom-made tableware and a warm welcome… This snug restaurant is the stomping ground of Manuel Godet, who harnesses his impeccable textbook skills to crafting creative recipes that shine the spotlight on local produce, sometimes with surprising twists. Examples include Pyrenean gravlax trout and whipped cream flavoured with locally brewed gin, or a kiwi from Adour with cocoa, buckwheat and truffles. Simple lunchtime menu, more ambitious in the evening.
Tarbes - FRANCE
Le Petit Gourmand
Near the city centre, this vintage bistro is now the lair of Mathieu Espagnacq, who has taken over from his father, who opened the establishment back in the eighties. Mathieu, a seasoned chef with stints in Paris working with top chefs under his belt, crafts food in the zeitgeist that respects tradition and stars premium country produce (farm-reared pork cheeks braised in red wine, vegetables confit in thyme and gnocchi in a smoky cream sauce). A treat for your tastebuds from start to finish – remember to book!
Tarbes - FRANCE