The Best Dining Spots in Monaco: A Guide to the Best Eats in the Principality
(Last updated: 9th February)
Monaco, a shimmering jewel on the French Riviera, is as renowned for its world-class dining scene as it is for its luxury and glamour. From Michelin-starred restaurants to hidden gems tucked away in charming corners of the Principality, Monaco offers a culinary journey that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation. Whether you're indulging in refined French cuisine, exploring Asian fusion flavours, or savoring Mediterranean-inspired dishes with a view of the azure sea, Monaco’s vibrant food culture is a feast for both the eyes and the palate. In this guide, we explore the best places to eat in Monaco, where sophistication meets exceptional taste.
1) Mayabay Monaco – A Taste of Asia in the Heart of Monaco
mayabaymonaco.com
Price Range: €70–€150 per person (£60–£130)
Hours: Daily: 12:00 PM–3:00 PM, 7:00 PM–11:00 PM
Booking: Recommended
Dietary: Specialises in contemporary Asian cuisine; vegetarian options available
Dress: Smart casual
Located in the vibrant heart of Monaco, Mayabay offers an exceptional blend of Asian flavours in a stunning, contemporary setting. The restaurant is renowned for its stylish decor and beautifully presented dishes, which showcase the best of modern Japanese and Thai culinary traditions. The elegant, sleek interiors provide a sophisticated atmosphere perfect for a special evening out or a celebratory gathering.
Insider Tips:
Service Style: Polished and attentive — service is both personal and professional, creating a welcoming atmosphere
Food Quality: Exceptional, with each dish offering a harmonious balance of flavours that highlight the artistry of Asian cuisine
Pro Tip: They do a ‘Business Lunch’ from Monday to Friday (available outside of school holidays and special events) with sets priced at €29–€135
2) Marlow – A Modern Twist on British Dining
montecarlosbm.com/fr/restaurant/marlow
Price Range: €50–€120 per person (£43–£104)
Hours: 08:30 AM–23:30 PM
Booking: Recommended
Dietary: British cuisine with modern twists; vegetarian and gluten-free options available
Dress: Smart casual
Nestled in the stunning Mareterra district of Monaco, Marlow offers a contemporary take on classic British dining with an elegant, relaxed atmosphere. The restaurant’s sleek, modern decor complements the serene surroundings of Monaco’s newest waterfront development, offering diners picturesque views of the Mediterranean. The menu expertly blends traditional British favourites with a modern twist, featuring dishes such as Beef Wellington and indulgent Marlow Brownie. The carefully curated wine list and attentive service enhance the experience, making Marlow an ideal destination for those seeking both comfort and sophistication by the sea.
Insider Tips:
Service Style: Attentive and friendly — waitstaff are knowledgeable and eager to offer wine pairings
Food Quality: Impeccable, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients and bold flavours that elevate traditional British dishes
Pro Tip: Try the Sunday Roast if available — it's a modern take on the British classic, perfectly executed
3) Buddha-Bar Monte-Carlo – An Exquisite Fusion of Asian Flavours and Lavish Ambiance
buddhabar.com/en/restaurants/buddha-bar-monte-carlo/
Price Range: €80–€150 per person (£69–£130)
Hours: Tuesday–Saturday: 6:00 PM–2:00 AM; Closed on Sundays and Mondays
Booking: Highly recommended
Dietary: Pan-Asian cuisine with vegetarian and gluten-free options
Dress: Smart casual
Situated just steps away from Monaco's iconic Place du Casino, Buddha-Bar Monte-Carlo offers an immersive dining experience that masterfully blends Asian-inspired décor with a sophisticated ambiance. The interior is a visual feast, drawing inspiration from the Garnier Opera House in Paris, featuring gilded mouldings, ancient sculptures, and colonial Asian elements, creating a chic and cozy atmosphere. The menu presents a fusion of Japanese, Thai, and Chinese cuisines, with signature dishes such as the Buddha-Bar sushi rolls, Peking duck, and aromatic Thai curries. The extensive cocktail list complements the culinary offerings, making it an ideal spot for both intimate dinners and lively gatherings.
Insider Tips:
Service Style: Stylish yet relaxed, with attentive staff offering personalised recommendations
Food Quality: Flavour-packed, with beautifully balanced dishes showcasing the finest Asian ingredients and innovative cooking techniques
Pro Tip: Arrive early to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and live DJ sets, which enhance the lively ambiance as the night progresses
4) Le Louis XV - Alain Ducasse à l'Hôtel de Paris – The Pinnacle of French Haute Cuisine
montecarlosbm.com/fr/restaurant-monaco/le-louis-xv-alain-ducasse-hotel-de-paris
Price Range: €250–€400+ per person (£217–£347)
Hours: Monday–Saturday: 12:30 PM–1:30 PM, 7:30 PM–9:30 PM
Booking: Essential
Dietary: French haute cuisine with bespoke options available for vegetarian, gluten-free, and special dietary needs
Dress: Elegant
Le Louis XV, located within the legendary Hôtel de Paris in Monte Carlo, is a temple of French gastronomy and a true Michelin three-star dining experience. Under the guidance of renowned chef Alain Ducasse, the restaurant delivers a flawless blend of Mediterranean flavours and French haute cuisine, with an emphasis on local, seasonal ingredients. The setting, equally luxurious, reflects the elegance of Monaco, with its grand chandeliers, intricate details, and views over the Place du Casino.
Insider Tips:
Service Style: Impeccable and discreet, with a high level of sophistication and professionalism
Food Quality: Consistently outstanding, with each dish crafted to showcase the finest ingredients in a delicate balance of flavours
Pro Tip: For the full experience, opt for the tasting menu, which allows you to experience the restaurant’s greatest hits, complemented by expertly paired wines. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime gastronomic journey
5) Cipriani Monaco – Timeless Italian Elegance
ciprianimontecarlo.com
Price Range: €90–€180 per person (£78–£156)
Hours: Daily: 12:00 PM–02:30 PM, 7:00 PM–11:30 PM
Booking: Highly recommended
Dietary: Italian cuisine with vegetarian and gluten-free options available
Dress: Smart casual
Located in the heart of Monte-Carlo, Cipriani brings the iconic Italian charm and elegance of the famous Cipriani family to the Mediterranean. This luxurious restaurant blends timeless Venetian cuisine with Mediterranean influences, offering a refined yet relaxed dining experience. The sleek and stylish decor, combined with the superb location overlooking the Monaco coastline, provides the perfect setting for a sophisticated lunch or an elegant evening.
Insider Tips:
Service Style: Elegant and professional, offering impeccable attention to detail without being intrusive
Food Quality: Consistently high, with a dedication to fresh, authentic Italian flavours in every dish
Pro Tip: Don't skip the Tiramisu for dessert—it's a classic and a standout
6) Song Qi – A Contemporary Asian Culinary Journey
song-qi.mc
Price Range: €100–€200 per person (£87–£173)
Hours: Monday–Saturday: 12:30 PM–3:00 PM, 7:00 PM–10:30 PM
Booking: Essential
Dietary: Pan-Asian cuisine with vegetarian and gluten-free options
Dress: Smart casual
Located in Monaco’s luxurious surroundings, Song Qi offers a refined fusion of Asian cuisines with an emphasis on contemporary Chinese and other Asian influences. The restaurant’s chic, minimalist décor, complete with elegant touches of Eastern art and design, creates a tranquil setting for an elevated dining experience. Signature dishes include the Personal Wok and the Dim Sum Platter, offering an exquisite balance of rich, bold flavours. Song Qi prides itself on offering a modern yet authentic experience, perfect for those seeking innovative Asian gastronomy paired with a sophisticated atmosphere.
Insider Tips:
Service Style: Attentive and knowledgeable, with staff well-versed in recommending the perfect pairings for each course
Food Quality: Refined and flavourful, with meticulously sourced ingredients and a masterful balance of traditional and modern techniques
Pro Tip: Opt for the Signature Song Qi Black Pepper Sauce if ordering the Personal Wok
7) Yoshi – A Sophisticated Japanese Culinary Retreat in Monaco
metropole.com/en/restaurant-montecarlo/yoshi/
Price Range: €80–€150 per person (£69–£130)
Hours: Tuesday–Saturday: 12:00 PM–2:00 PM, 7:00 PM–10:00 PM
Booking: Recommended
Dietary: Japanese cuisine with vegetarian options available
Dress: Smart casual
Nestled within the Hôtel Metropole in Monaco, Yoshi is a serene and intimate haven for lovers of Japanese cuisine. Created by renowned chef Alain Ducasse, the restaurant offers a delicate balance of traditional Japanese techniques and the best of French culinary artistry. The refined menu features fresh sashimi, expertly crafted sushi, and elegant bento boxes. The restaurant’s minimalist decor, complemented by soft lighting and natural wood, creates a tranquil ambiance perfect for both casual meals and special occasions.
Insider Tips:
Service Style: Polished and attentive, with staff offering expert recommendations and insight into the seasonal menu
Food Quality: Impeccable, with each dish prepared using the finest ingredients, resulting in vibrant, fresh, and balanced flavours
Pro Tip: If you’re looking to experience the full range of Yoshi’s offerings, opt for their omakase menu, where the chef curates a personalised selection of dishes based on the freshest seasonal ingredients
8) Zeffirino – A Taste of Italy’s Culinary Heritage in Monaco
zeffirino-restaurant.com/en/monaco/
Price Range: €70–€120 per person (£60–£104)
Hours: 12:00 PM–2:30 PM, 7:00 PM–11:00 PM
Booking: Recommended
Dietary: Italian cuisine with vegetarian and gluten-free options
Dress: Smart casual
Located in the heart of Monaco, Zeffirino offers a timeless Italian dining experience, perfect for those seeking authentic Genoese flavours. This iconic restaurant is known for its classic Italian dishes, with an emphasis on freshly homemade pasta and luxurious antipasti. The elegant interior combines modern luxury with traditional Italian warmth in shades of sage green, making it an ideal venue for a relaxed lunch or a sophisticated dinner. With dishes like the Trofie o Mandilli al Pesto di Zeffirino and Pistachio Gelato, Zeffirino delivers a true taste of Italy in a chic Monaco setting
Insider Tips:
Service Style: Friendly and attentive, with a family-like atmosphere that makes you feel right at home
Food Quality: Exceptional, with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients, and dishes that highlight authentic Italian flavours
Pro Tip: Be sure to pair your meal with one of their excellent Italian wines, carefully selected to complement the rich flavours of each dish
9) Polpetta – Rustic Italian Charm with a Monaco Twist
Price Range: €40–€80 per person (£35–£70)
Hours: 12:00 PM–2:00 PM, 7:30 PM–11:00 PM
Booking: Recommended
Dietary: Italian cuisine with vegetarian options available
Dress: Casual
Bringing the heart of Italian home cooking to Monaco, Polpetta is a cosy and lively trattoria that celebrates the simple pleasures of great food and good company. Named after Italy’s beloved meatballs, this eatery offers a menu filled with hearty, comforting dishes made from fresh, high-quality ingredients. From classic Truffle Tagliolini to their Seafood Risotto every dish is a tribute to traditional Italian flavours. The warm, rustic decor, combined with friendly service, creates a relaxed yet vibrant dining atmosphere, perfect for both intimate dinners and lively gatherings.
Insider Tips:
Service Style: Warm and welcoming, with a laid-back charm that makes you feel instantly at ease
Food Quality: Authentic and satisfying, with dishes that highlight the essence of traditional Italian home cooking
Pro Tip: Don’t skip the Tiramisu, a house favourite that strikes the perfect balance between rich mascarpone cream and delicate espresso-soaked biscuits
10) Caposushi – Monaco’s Sleek Take on Japanese Fusion
dacapomonaco.com
Price Range: €20–€40 per person (£16–£33)
Hours: Daily: 12:00 PM–3:00 PM, 7:00 PM–10:00 PM
Booking: Recommended
Dietary: Japanese cuisine with vegetarian and gluten-free options
Dress: Smart casual
CapoSushi exudes understated luxury with a serene, minimalist aesthetic. Soft lighting, warm wood accents, and floor-to-ceiling windows frame breathtaking Mediterranean views. The intimate, sleek interior blends Japanese craftsmanship with Riviera elegance — marble counters, plush banquettes, and an open sushi bar where chefs artfully prepare Edomae-style delicacies. By night, the terrace glows with candlelight, creating a chic yet relaxed ambiance perfect for Monaco’s elite. A harmonious fusion of Zen tranquility and cosmopolitan glamour.
Insider Tips:
Service Style: Attentive yet unintrusive, ensuring a seamless dining experience
Food Quality: Fresh and artfully presented, with an emphasis on top-tier ingredients
Pro Tip: Try their signature rolls for a unique taste experience
11) Blue Bay – Marcel Ravin’s Caribbean-Mediterranean Symphony
montecarlosbm.com/en/restaurant-monaco/the-blue-bay
Price Range: €150–€250 per person (£130–£217)
Hours: Thursday–Saturday: 7:30 PM–10:00 PM (Dinner)
Booking: Essential
Dietary: Contemporary fusion with vegetarian and gluten-free options
Dress: Elegant
Perched in the Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort, where the soul of the Caribbean meets the sophistication of the French Riviera. Michelin-starred chef Marcel Ravin orchestrates a daring, poetic 9 or 10-course tasting menus. The sleek, sunlit dining room, with its sweeping terrace over the Med, feels like a whisper of elegance.
Insider Tips:
Service Style: Impeccable and refined, yet warm, making fine dining feel effortless
Food Quality: Inventive and precise, with a deep respect for both heritage and modern gastronomy
Pro Tip: Book an outdoor table for a front-row seat to the Riviera sunset — it transforms the dining experience into pure magic
From Michelin-starred marvels to cosy trattorias, Monaco’s dining scene is as extravagant and diverse as the city itself. Whether you're indulging in Marcel Ravin’s Caribbean-Mediterranean artistry, savouring handmade pasta in a tucked-away Italian gem, or sipping cocktails under the glow of Buddha-Bar’s chandeliers, every meal here is an experience, not just a dish.
But beyond the glitz, what truly defines Monaco’s food culture is its passion for quality — where every ingredient, every detail, and every bite is elevated to an art form. So, whether you're a seasoned gourmand or just here for the spectacle, one thing is certain: in Monaco, the next unforgettable meal is always just around the corner.
Bon appétit — Monaco style.