The story
At Épices et Tout in Alès, Quentin and Aurélie Bonnet run a family affair built on a love for good food. The restaurant, which has held a Michelin Bib Gourmand since 2017, is a destination for those seeking a thoughtful, seasonal meal in a welcoming setting. The couple’s philosophy is simple: cook with fresh, local ingredients and let the seasons guide the menu.
The kitchen, led by Chef Quentin, produces a modern cuisine that changes with the market. Lunch offers a daily-changing menu with two or three courses (€20.50 to €25.50), while evenings and Saturday lunch feature a carte menu ranging from €38 to €49. All dishes are labeled "Fait maison" – homemade – and the team happily adapts for dietary needs, including gluten-free, lactose-free, and vegetarian options.
Sample dishes from recent menus include plancha-grilled swordfish with herbed polenta and creamy bisque, a French beef cut grilled with vegetable mousseline and pepper jus, and a vegetarian plate built from the day’s sides. Desserts might feature a Pélardon cheese from a local Cévennes farm or a coffee-speculoos tiramisu. The wine list is carefully selected, with a preference for regional bottles.
The dining room is comfortable and accommodating, with air conditioning, outdoor seating, and wheelchair access. The restaurant is open for lunch Monday through Saturday, and for dinner on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings. Reservations are taken by phone only.
Beyond the Bib Gourmand, Épices et Tout has also held a Toque from the Gault & Millau guide since 2017 – a mark of consistent quality. It’s a place where the passion for seasonal, local ingredients and warm hospitality come together, dish after dish.
Recognition
Ambience