The story
Instincts opened its doors in the center of Saint-Jean-de-Luz in March 2018, and from the start, it set out to be a restaurant where French cuisine could be both refined and unpretentious. The team describes their style as bistronomique—a bridge between the warmth of a neighborhood bistro and the precision of gastronomy. The dining room seats 28, and the atmosphere is convivial, welcoming families, couples, and friends.
The kitchen changes its menu every month. This isn't a gimmick; it's a direct response to what local producers are offering. Instincts works with a network of artisans and farmers from the Basque Country and beyond, building each dish around seasonal, fresh ingredients. The result is a cuisine that feels alive and connected to the land.
Guests can choose from three formulas: 3 Temps (starter, main, dessert or cheese), 4 Temps (two starters, main, dessert or cheese), and 5 Temps (two starters, fish, meat, dessert or cheese). At lunch, a weekly-changing formule du jour offers a quicker, more affordable option. The wine list is equally thoughtful, focusing on natural and biodynamic French bottles, with local beers and Alain Milliat juices also available.
The Michelin guide has awarded Instincts a Recommended status for 2026, recognizing the kitchen's consistency, creativity, and commitment to quality.
For those with dietary needs, the team adapts dishes for vegetarian, gluten-free, and lactose-free diets with advance notice. The restaurant also offers private event bookings.
Instincts is located at 20 rue Joseph-Garat, in the heart of Saint-Jean-de-Luz. It's a place where modern French cuisine is served with a genuine sense of place.
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