Le 21

Although a little out of the way, this restaurant enjoys an enviable location overlooking Plage de la Birochère, whose sandy cove surrounded by rocks is visible from the restaurant. Chef Sylvain Belouin and oenologist and sommelier Valérie Belouin are the brilliant couple behind this Pornic institution. The experienced chef (for a decade, Sylvain headed up the kitchens at Le Pigeon Blanc in Vern-d'Anjou, where his efforts were crowned with a Bib Gourmand) certainly knows his stuff. His simple way of treating guests to dishes centred on local ingredients, meat (pigeon, pig) and fish, eg his beautifully crispy sole meunière, is testament to this. The wine list features 500 wines (mainly biodynamic). Laid-back and friendly service.