Amboise has a satisfying selection of cafés, patisseries and restaurants. It's a good idea to call ahead and reserve your places anytime, but essential from June through September.

L'Alliance

Our favorite restaurant in Amboise is on a back street (14 rue Joyeuse; map) away from the tourist crowds. Indoor and outdoor seating, personal attention, value-for-money prices and innovative cuisine attract those in the know. More...

L'Épicerie

On Place Michel Debré, its tables enjoy views of the château. More...

La Réserve

Café-restaurant on Place Michel Debré opposite the Vignobles d'Amboise cave (map), it's among our favorites for food and service.

Chez Hippeau Café-Brasserie

In the very center of the town by the church where the waterfront meets rue François Premier (map), this large, bustling restaurant, formerly called the Brasserie de l'Hôtel de Ville, has a varied menu of standard items good for an uncomplicated lunch at a decent price.

Café-Bar Anne de Bretagne

The most prominent location in Amboise—at the foot of the ramp leading to the château (map)—makes this good café-restaurant perfect for people-watching with a drink and a light meal.

A dozen restaurants on Place Michel Debré: good choice!

Maison Bigot

Depuis 1913 (since 1913) is the proud claim of this excellent chocolatier-patissier and café serving hot and cold drinks, delicious pastries, and a variety of light meals (but no sandwiches) right at the western end of the Place Michel Debré (map), offering the town's best spot for people-watching. (The name is pronounced "bee-GOH.") More...

Le Shaker

As in "cocktail shaker," this café-bar facing the château from the Île d'Or, the island in the Loire, exists for its drinks and its sunset views of the château. Have reservations, or claim a table long before sunset. Closed Monday off-season (September to May).

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