Epicentre

The story

Epicentre, Bordeaux: Modern Bistronomie by Benjamin Wavrant

Epicentre: Bistronomie in Central Bordeaux

Epicentre sits just steps from place de la Comédie, in the heart of Bordeaux. The restaurant describes itself as a “bistronomie” – a style that marries the conviviality of a bistro with the precision of fine dining. Chef Benjamin Wavrant leads a kitchen focused on fresh, seasonal produce from local suppliers. This is modern cuisine that is both gourmet and refined, with careful attention to cooking and texture.

Chef Wavrant brings fourteen years of experience, having trained at Château Cordeillan Bages and Château Pomys, and previously heading the kitchens at Bellini in Bordeaux and Bistrot de l’Alouette in Pessac. At Epicentre, his menu changes monthly and is intentionally short: three starters, three mains, two desserts. The carte is guided entirely by the season.

At lunch, from Tuesday to Saturday, Epicentre offers a single market menu at €29 – a starter, a choice of fish or meat, and dessert or cheese. In the evening, the discovery menu is renewed each month. The first option is €57 (amuse-bouche, starter, main, dessert); the second, at €65, includes a worked cheese course. Dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice. There is no separate children’s menu, but younger guests are offered adapted portions – “just like mum and dad,” the restaurant says.

Epicentre’s commitment to seasonal, local cooking has earned it a Michelin Recommended distinction for 2026, a recognition of its consistent modern cuisine. The restaurant can also be privatised for groups of fifteen or more, for business meals, birthdays, or other private events. Pets are welcome.

Dishes such as Limousin beef with carrots and onions, scallops with celery and kale, and cod with crispy polenta exemplify the kitchen’s focus on clean, vibrant flavours.