
Restaurant La Ponche
An iconic St. Tropez address offering a glamorous Mediterranean dining experience with stunning sea views and a rich history. [^M1]

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

Restaurant La Ponche

Highlights
Must-see attractions
An iconic St. Tropez address offering a glamorous Mediterranean dining experience with stunning sea views and a rich history. [^M1]
"This charming and quiet place offers a very nice view and delicious dishes with smiling and professional service. "
Visit during off-peak hours
For a more intimate experience, consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid crowds.
Try unique cocktails
Refreshing options like the 'Plein Soleil' no-alcohol cocktail or a strawberry basil cocktail are recommended.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
Mediterranean
Price
$$$
Phone
+33 4 22 47 09 00
Address
4 Pl. du Revelen, 83990 Saint-Tropez, France
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sunset Dining with Ocean Views
Savor delicious food like oysters and catch of the day while enjoying a breathtaking sunset over the St. Tropez bay.

Old-School Glamour & Elegance
Experience timeless elegance with white parasols and tablecloths, echoing the glamour of its iconic past. [^M1]

Mediterranean Specialties
Indulge in tasteful Mediterranean specialties prepared with fresh local ingredients in a cozy atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Visit during off-peak hours
For a more intimate experience, consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid crowds.
Try unique cocktails
Refreshing options like the 'Plein Soleil' no-alcohol cocktail or a strawberry basil cocktail are recommended.
Admire the interior design
Appreciate the beautiful interiors designed by Fabrizio Casiraghi while enjoying your meal.
Reservations advised
Especially during busy seasons, securing a table, particularly with a prime view, is recommended.
Tips
from all over the internet
Visit during off-peak hours
For a more intimate experience, consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid crowds.
Try unique cocktails
Refreshing options like the 'Plein Soleil' no-alcohol cocktail or a strawberry basil cocktail are recommended.
Admire the interior design
Appreciate the beautiful interiors designed by Fabrizio Casiraghi while enjoying your meal.
Reservations advised
Especially during busy seasons, securing a table, particularly with a prime view, is recommended.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Diners frequently praise Restaurant La Ponche for its charming atmosphere, beautiful sea views, and friendly, professional service, making it a memorable dining experience. While the food is generally considered delicious and inventive, a few reviewers note that portion sizes can be small, and some find the prices high, though ultimately satisfying given the location and quality.
"Really lovely meal after a long day of travel. Every staff member I spoke to had a smile on their face and a warm offer of assistance. The Plein Soleil no-alcohol cocktail was quite refreshing. To start I had the blue fin crudo with burrata foam, following by the gnochetti with shell fish (mercifully already out of the shell). The desserts looked good but I simply had an espresso to finish my delicious dinner. The meal was also an opportunity to see the beautiful interiors by Fabrizio Casiraghi. I’m working with his firm on a project and so it was good to see another realized project in person. Highly recommend."
S M B
"The portions are ridiculously small. We ordered zucchini flowers for 20€ and got one zucchini flower (see photo). The main dish was also relatively small though not ridiculous. They provide plenty of carbs such as bread and rice to fill you as the food is a joke. Avoid like the plague!
The flavors are really quite good but nothing that you will remember."
Alex G
"Had lunch here on Sat May 25th, had the linguine with mushrooms and a strawberry basil cocktail. The food and drink were tasty and delicious. The restaurant is cozy with warm friendly service. This will be my go to place when I’m in St. Tropez. Thank you Adrian and Pierre for an amazing experience."
Julie Rosa
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
The restaurant offers an old-school elegance with white parasols and tablecloths, combined with a cozy atmosphere and warm, friendly service. [^M1]
Yes, many tables offer a beautiful view of the sea, especially on the terrace. Requesting a good table when booking is advisable.
Yes, unique cocktails like the 'Plein Soleil' no-alcohol cocktail are available and refreshing.
While specific recommendations vary, popular choices include fresh fish dishes, oysters, and unique starters like sea bream sashimi or stuffed zucchini flowers.
The restaurant is generally accommodating, and while not explicitly a family restaurant, it offers a pleasant atmosphere and service.
Many diners dress up for dinner, suggesting a chic and elegant atmosphere.
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In St-Tropez where glamour is not in short supply, this is a particularly glamorous address. The hotel La Ponche was opened on the port-side location of former fishermen’s cottages and soon became a site of legend when Brigitte Bardot stayed here during the filming of Et Dieu Créa la femme. Today the restaurant keeps up old-school elegance with its white parasols and tablecloths, while the food has a distinctively contemporary feel.
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Fouetté par la brise marine de la plage de la Ponche, cet hôtel de poche a longtemps été le spot fétiche d'une faune d'intellectuels et d'artistes colorés de passage à Saint-Tropez. Fréquenté par Françoise Sagan, Brigitte Bardot, Simone de Beauvoir, Romy Schneider ou encore Jean-Paul Sartre, cette institution tropézienne a été revampée par Fabrizio Casiraghi. Réveillé, le lieu gagne un nouveau restaurant, mené par le chef Thomas Danigo ( également aux commandes de Galanga de l'hôtel Monsieur George) qui célèbre les spécialités méditerranéennes et un spa Tigre Yoga Club qui propose des cours, au petit matin, sur le ponton face aux vagues.
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With a stay at Hôtel La Ponche in Saint-Tropez (Saint-Tropez City Centre), you'll be within a 10-minute drive of Pampelonne Beach and Grimaud Castle. This beach hotel is 0.1 mi (0.1 km) from Plage de la Fontanette and 0.1 mi (0.2 km) from Église de St-Tropez.Take in the views from a terrace and make use of amenities such as complimentary wireless internet access and concierge services.Grab a bite to eat at the hotel's restaurant, where you can enjoy drinks at the bar/lounge, take in the ocean view, and even dine alfresco. You can also stay in and take advantage of the 24-hour room service.
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L'historique hôtel La Ponche, qui a contribué à faire la renommée de Saint-Tropez du temps de la Nouvelle Vague, abrite sur sa petite terrasse face à la mer le restaurant méditerranéen du chef Thomas Danigo. La carte est fraîche et classique, et puise dans les traditions italiennes, une fois n’est pas coutume, et provençales : soupe de poisson, ceviche de daurade aux agrumes / sorbet basilic, pêche du jour, huîtres Tarbouriech, pickles de concombre, vinaigre balsamique rosé et perles d’aneth. Sans aucun doute l'une des meilleures tables dans le cœur du village de Saint-Tropez.
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St Tropez was also popular with the French literati and places like La Ponche, one of the few hotels at the water’s edge, which opened its doors to figures like Françoise Sagan, Boris Vian, Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir for raucous nights of live music and vermouth cocktails late into the night. Entirely refurbished last year by interior designer Fabrizio Casiraghi the hotel’s 21 rooms emerged brand new, its speakeasy spirit intact. This year, it started off the season with the inaugural edition of a literary prize and yoga retreats with French institution Le Tigre.
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It is undoubtedly the cutest and most authentic hotel in Saint-Tropez, popular with Simone de Beauvoir , Romy Schneider , Brigitte Bardot , Françoise Sagan and the whole team in a family home spirit. Fabrizio Casiraghi signs the new Provençal and elegant decor of La Ponche with tommettes, attics and discreetly luxurious fabrics. Note: book a class with the Tigre Yoga Club to greet the sun from the pontoon of La Ponche beach (a little wonder in the middle of the city), barefoot almost in the water.
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En plein coeur de Saint-Tropez, entre deux ruelles piétonnes du magnifique quartier de la Ponche, Didier et l'ensemble de son équipe vous embarquent à bord de leur restaurant de poissons et fruits de mer, "Le Petit Pointu". Invitation à une délicieuse traversée bercée par les produits de la mer, toujours fraîchement pêchés, notre restaurant vous offre deux atmosphères: - "Les Tapas" : Au bar, en salle, en terrasse!. Assiettes d'huîtres, bulots, crevettes...
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Wandering through the Old Town of St. Tropez, known as La Ponche, feels like stepping back in time. The narrow, cobblestone streets are lined with charming pastel-colored buildings that have stood for centuries, their shutters painted in soft shades of blue and green. As you wander through these winding streets, you’ll find yourself at the bustling Place des Lices, where locals gather for lively games of pétanque under the shade of ancient plane trees.
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Le couple Sartre/De Beauvoir et la bande de Françoise Sagan débarqueront peu de temps après sur les côtes varoises, rejoignant la troupe de joyeux lurons. À la recherche d’élégance radicale, ces artistes de renom préfèrent le Bar de La Ponche au célèbre Sénéquier, qu’ils jugent trop mondain. Ils ne sont pas de ceux qui se lèvent aux aurores et leur inclination penche naturellement vers cet autre Saint-Tropez, moins bling-bling ; plus authentique.
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If you want to adorn yourself with the glamorous elegance of Saint-Tropez, go shopping at Place de la Garonne, Rue Gambetta, Rue Allard, on the quays of the port or at the Ponche. You will find luxury brands (Vuitton, Dior, Hermès…) as well as the workshops of new trendy designers. You can also discover jewelry, leather goods and accessories boutiques that allow you to cultivate, down to the smallest detail, the fashion spirit of Saint-Tropez.
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On the sundeck overlooking the ocean or in the dining room of the iconic hotel La Ponche, Chef Thomas Danigo offers Mediterranean cookery grounded on original vegetables and fresh local fish. A cooking that’s both elegant and inventive, in the fine image of La Ponche – one of Bridgitte Bardot’s favorite places in Saint Tropez. This restaurant is located in the Old Town so it’s easy to access if you visit Saint-Tropez without a car.
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La Ponche: As Saint Tropez’s old quarter, La Ponche is home to pretty architecture, narrow streets and a jumble of cafes, shops, and restaurants. The buildings here are jumbled closely together, which gives the area an almost medieval feel, but with a beautiful modern elegance. La Ponche stretches right down to the waterfront, where you can enjoy a romantic seafront dinner and watch one of Saint Tropez’ famous sunsets.
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Located in the historic heart of St. Tropez, La Ponche is a small yet luxurious restaurant that combines Provencal traditions with Mediterranean flavors. Known for its intimate atmosphere and authentic local dishes, the restaurant offers fresh fish, meats, and seasonal vegetables prepared with flair. The rustic elegance of the setting makes it an ideal choice for a romantic meal or a quiet, refined dining experience.
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The cobbled, pedestrian alleys crisscrossing through the Old Town, or ‘La Ponche’, separate the harbour from the Place des Lices, where century-old plane trees add the slightest bit of shade to the sandy pétanque court in the centre. The main square gives way to a twice-weekly open-air market, where vendors pedal everything from produce and pastries to linen clothing that’s the unofficial uniform of choice in town.
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As you walk into the picturesque old town, known as "La Ponche," you will find a nice mix of boutiques, restaurants, small cafes, and more. Landmarks here include the 18th-century Eglise de Notre-Dame de l'Assomption and Hôtel de Ville (Town Hall). Don't miss Palais des Bailli Pierre-André de Suffren, who was Bailiff of the Order of Malta and one of the most notable French navy admirals.
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La Ponche in Saint-Tropez, refreshed by Fabrizio Casiraghi, blends Mediterranean zest with Riviera luxury. Chef Thomas Danigo, formerly of Galanga, serves a straightforward menu: fresh fish, regional vegetables, and choice meats, all bursting with flavour. The decor, a nod to La Dolce Vita, features bright rooms with off-white walnut and dark-stained tiles plus Picasso lithographs.
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One of the more off-the-beaten-path things to do in Saint-Tropez is exploring the beautiful Château de la Moutte. This elegant 19th-century estate, surrounded by lush gardens, is a cultural and historical treasure. During the summer months, the château hosts classical music concerts in its beautiful outdoor setting, offering a magical experience for visitors.
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Planning a visit to Saint Tropez, La Ponche – the Old Town – should be at the top of your list. Immerse yourself in the bygone era while meandering through the historic center of Saint-Tropez situated in La Ponche. This quaint neighborhood, nestled beneath the citadel and adjacent to the harbor basin of Vieux Port, exudes a unique character and allure.
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La Ponche offers refined cuisine where “fish soup, red mullet, lobster and cod are given pride of place in the Provencal tradition”. In addition to the gastronomic experience, this is a must for French film buffs, who will be able to recall the glory days of former regular Brigitte Bardot, during the filming of Roger Vadim’s Et Dieu créa la femme.
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À proximité du vieux port, La Ponche est l’ancien quartier de pêcheurs de St Tropez avec des immeubles et ruelles pittoresques photogénique. Si vous souhaitez une photo du Saint-Tropez typique et traditionnel, c’est le spot photo parfait !. Ses jolis bâtiments aux murs ocre, ses petites ruelles et criques en font un quartier très charmant.
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Many travelers find that the easiest way to get to Saint-Tropez is by plane. You can fly into either the Nice Cote d’Azur Airport or the Marseille Provence Airport, then take an airport transfer or hire a car to get to St Tropez. There’s also the Aéroport du Golfe de Saint Tropez in La Mole for helicopter and private jet arrivals.
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Les étoiles, elles étaient à l’intérieur » confiait encore Simone Duckstein. Car voilà bien l’histoire de ce qui est aujourd’hui le plus intime et le plus secret des 5 étoiles de Saint-Tropez. L’hôtel La Ponche a commencé par trois chambres en 1957 — elles furent notamment occupées par le trio Sartre-De Beauvoir-Claude Lanzmann.
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Do not miss the legendary Place des Lices (lovely square, framed with plane trees and cafés), the Italian baroque style Église de St-Tropez quintessential landmark built in 1785 and the tiny La Ponche harbour. Walk up to the 17th century citadel that dominates the hillside and enjoy the fantastic panoramic views of the bay.
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The film's outdoor scenes are shot in the district of La Ponche, on its small beach and on a beach in Pampelonne in Ramatuelle where a small hut, transformed into an improvised canteen for the film crew, will become the famous Club 55, a real institution and one of the most popular private beaches on the French Riviera.
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The film‘s outdoor scenes are shot in the district of La Ponche, on its small beach and on a beach in Pampelonne in Ramatuelle where a small hut, transformed into an improvised canteen for the film crew, will become the famous Club 55, a real institution and one of the most popular private beaches on the French Riviera.
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The old town of St. Tropez is commonly referred to as “La Ponche.” It is a small village that is famous for its spectacular fishing industry. During most of the year, it has less than 3000 residents. Visitors traveling in the city can enjoy the old rustic French cottages and imagine how simple life would be.
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Restaurant La Ponche: part of theHotel La Ponche, it has a rich history. Originally an ordinary fishermen’s bar, it was transformed into a refuge for the stars in the 1950s. Between the Mediterranean fish bourride, and the catch of the day with grilled cabbage, you’ll love this excellent restaurant!
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La Ponche is a charming little 4 star hotel by a tiny beach, and its restaurant is really worth a visit. If you like seafood, you can choose from a variety of freshly caught wild fish. I went for the red mullet on a bed of pesto courgetti while my Mum chose to have a whole grilled seabass.
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Located in the heart of St Tropez, this 5 star hotel offers luxurious rooms with views over the sea and the city, a bar and restaurant. The guest rooms are air-conditioned and soundproofed. A la carte breakfast is served every morning on the terrace boasting sea views.
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Luxury – Hotel La Ponche is fantastically situated in the old town of Saint Tropez, with views over the bay, and an excellently situated restaurant terrace. In addition, there is a small local beach at their doorstep. Address: 5 rue des Remparts, St. Tropez
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A nice hotel bar with a beautiful terrace, tucked into a corner of the old town by the water. The terrace and drink list aren't anything fancy, but it's a lovely setting and they make a perfect dirty martini (which is extremely hard to come by in Europe).
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If only the walls could talk at La Ponche, an 18-room hotel perched right on the sea. Formerly a tavern, this family-owned five-star hotel takes its name from the district where it’s located: a fishermen’s quarter before Brigitte Bardot partied here.
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Parts of the old town have been pedestrianised, with the cobbled lanes scattered with small shops, cafes and restaurants. You could spend hours simply exploring the labyrinthine walkways, and exploring the lively quarter at the Rue de la Citadelle.
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Start your visit with the most emblematic locations like the harbour, prettily lined by houses with colourful façades, the typical neighbourhood of La Ponche, and Place des Lices, where locals play boules in the shade of the plane trees.
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For something a little less expensive, you can make reservations for places like La Table de Leon, La Ponche, La Ramade, and Chez Madeline (oyster bar), or even go to places like La Petite Plage or Senequier along the port.
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La Ponche is the small fishing quarter tucked away behind the port and below the citadel. Here you will find a tranquil little area of cobble streets and quiet beaches frequented by locals, a perfect spot for some downtime.
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What a pleasure it is to walk the streets and squares, to be part of this convivial ambiance and be steeped in the fragrance of a Provencal market, before arriving at the legendary harbour and its mermaids via La Ponche.
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These delightful and interesting beaches are almost literally a ‘stone’s throw’ from the quirky boutiques and bars of La Ponche, providing visitors with the perfect break from a busy day’s sunbathing.
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The gourmet restaurant’s secluded dining room offers a splendid view on Saint-Tropez’s bay. In total secrecy, the hosts can dream along as they admire beautiful landscapes that resemble works of art.
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Head to its cobblestoned La Ponche quarter which recalls its past as a fishing village, although swanky yachts now outnumber fishing boats and compete for space in its old harbour, Le Vieux Port.
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Some not-so-famous but equally beautiful beaches include La Ponche and Palges de Glaye, and Plage de la Garoupe, which are perfect if you’re looking to find quieter beaches away from the crowds.
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A relaxing day with the whole family to sunbathe under the Mediterranean sun is also possible on the fine sands of the beaches of Bouillabaisse, Ponche, Moutte, Graniers, Salins and Canoubiers.
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At the legendary La Ponche restaurant where the charming owner and Brigitte Bardot’s friend Simon Duckstein dined with me and Chef Christian Geay regaled us with his vegetarian masterpieces
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La Ponche – A 5-star hotel in the heart of the village of Saint-Tropez with 21 authentic and refined rooms that offer one of the most splendid views over the bay of Saint Tropez.
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La Ponche happens to be one of the most unique and beautiful hotel experiences. The waterside and view is absolutely breathtaking. Photocred: François de Dijon
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Spoerry found inspiration for Port-Grimaud in the fishermen's quarter of La Ponche in Saint-Tropez, where pastel-coloured houses line the cobble-stoned streets.
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It is next to La Ponche hotel which is one of the oldest hotels in the town, definitely worth checking out. I mention both places in my cookbook NINA St Tropez!
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Pedestrian only streets lined with art galleries and boutiques and the Place des Lices with its popular cafés give a flavour of the towns more tranquil past.
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The village’s incredible beaches range from the popular celebrity-spotting Pampelonne to the small and glamorous La Ponche or La Glaye.
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Set halfway up a hill on Avenue du Marechal Foch is La Ponche, a restaurant and hotel made famous by French writer Colette.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit