The story
Perched above Clermont-Ferrand, Radio occupies one of the last beautiful Art Deco hotels in France. Built in 1930, the building was conceived as a monument to modernism: original mosaic floors, wrought-iron details, and mirrors that echo the triode valves and radio waves that give the place its name. The atmosphere is sophisticated yet unpretentious, with a warmth that comes from the people who run it. Caroline Mioche and chef Wilfrid Chaplain lead a team that describes itself as “enthusiastic, passionate, respectful” – and it shows.
The dining room is where Radio’s Modern Cuisine takes centre stage. The kitchen puts a spotlight on ingredients such as foie gras, langoustine, pigeon, and Auvergne veal, treating them with precision and restraint. Desserts follow the same rhythm, with a prize-winning composition that balances rhubarb, strawberry, and verbena. The tasting menu changes with the seasons; a recent June offering included roasted Brittany monkfish with pink grapefruit and spiced glazed carrot, duck breast rubbed with cuttlefish ink and served with a hazelnut confit pastilla, and a clever “Composition n°2” of raspberry, beetroot, and passion fruit. A selection of Auvergne cheeses adds a local touch.
This is cooking that earned Radio a Michelin star in 2026 – a recognition of the kitchen’s consistent high quality. The wine list, curated by sommelier Nicolas, is equally thoughtful, and the team offers a “Cuisine Club” lunch from Tuesday to Friday for those who want a faster, well-priced business meal without sacrificing taste.
What makes Radio memorable is not just the food but the sense of place and people. The hotel’s charming flaws – a small wrought-iron lift, no barrier at the free parking – are part of its character. Home-made jams, freshly squeezed orange juice, and a genuine welcome make guests feel looked after. The team, from “Mam” Mioche to the beagle Margaux, works with a discreet efficiency that turns a meal into a relaxed, generous experience. For anyone seeking Modern Cuisine in an Art Deco setting that feels both historic and alive, Radio is a destination.
Recognition
Ambience
Location