Traditional restaurants in Bordeaux
Pauillac lamb, tricandille, ribeye steak, lamprey à la bordelaise, foie gras... what would a visit to Bordeaux be without the pleasure of sampling the culinary specialties of southwestern France? Here, there’s no fuss. Whether you’re drawn to the old-school brasserie decor, dishes with traditional flavors, or classic favorites reimagined by talented chefs, we’ve rounded up a few traditional Bordeaux restaurants here.
A rustic setting and refined cuisine from the Southwest at La Tupina
A true institution, La Tupina is a restaurant that stands out in Bordeaux’s culinary scene. And for good reason: founded in 1968 by Jean-Pierre Xiradakis, this country inn passionately upholds traditions and showcases local ingredients from the Southwest. Tucked away on the corner of Rue de la Porte de la Monnaie, its decidedly authentic inn-style decor and its fireplace with the cauldron in which dishes simmer continue to charm guests. Whether it’s lamprey—a legendary fish in Bordeaux cuisine—foie gras with pears, or veal sweetbreads in Lillet, Chef Franck Audu’s cuisine remains true to tradition. Celebrated by prestigious critics, this iconic spot continues to shine brightly in the Bordeaux culinary scene.
La Tupina, 6 rue Porte de la Monnaie, Bordeaux
Brasserie Bordelaise, a must-visit restaurant at any hour
Brasserie Bordelaise is the go-to spot for lovers of grilled meat and traditional local dishes. With a meticulous selection of the finest meats from Florian Gazeau’s butcher shop, the restaurant offers a generous menu created by Chef Stéphane Perromat and Executive Chef Djordje Ercevic. Highlights include, for example, beef cheek confit in wine. In a warm brasserie setting, guests gather around large tables and enjoy a simple, lively atmosphere. Not only is the restaurant open every day, but it also serves dinner late into the evening, perfect for a meal after a show. Speaking of shows, it’s not uncommon to spot a celebrity here. Some, like Guillaume Canet, Isabelle Huppert, and Patrick Bruel, even have their names engraved on the chairs.
La Brasserie Bordelaise, 50 rue Saint-Rémi, Bordeaux
The classic bistro of the Chartrons, Chez Dupont
Ideally located at the corner of the charming Rue Notre-Dame and Rue Cornac, this spot with a sunny terrace year-round was long the go-to spot for antique dealers. And for good reason: the Chartrons district was (and still is, to some extent) their headquarters. Run by the same couple since 1988, this bistro with its zinc counter serves fresh, authentic cuisine that blends brasserie and fine dining. Here you’ll find the famous “tricandilles” from Les Halles, as well as their house-made semi-cured foie gras. Veal sweetbreads are a frequent request from the “regulars,” and right now, you can also enjoy thyme-roasted suckling lamb. Note that their annex across the street hosts private group events, and beyond lunch and dinner, you can also spend the night at Chez Dupont in their guest rooms.
Chez Dupont, restaurant and guesthouse, 45, rue Notre-Dame, Bordeaux
The locals’ hangout, Chez Pompon
Bordeaux locals love the atmosphere during happy hour at Pompon. Originally located on the corner of Place Tourny, this lively bistro has just moved to the Bordeaux waterfront. Here, people come for the warm, down-to-earth atmosphere (which easily turns festive on Thursday evenings) that founder Anthony magically creates, alongside Victor Battut and rugby player Baptiste Serin. People come to relax with a coffee as early as 8 a.m., have lunch in the sun, and enjoy an aperitif from Thursday through Saturday. Choose from three daily specials, including the Thursday chicken supreme—a recipe that hasn’t changed in 20 years. The organic deviled eggs, the small roast beef tied and larded, the duck breast, and the homemade mashed potatoes are always a hit.
Chez Pompon, 17 Quai Louis XVIII, Bordeaux
Brasserie Maillard: The new old-school brasserie
It’s hard to miss this spot near Place de la Bourse. And for good reason: the floral mural and backlit sign easily catch the eye of passersby. Here, you step into a modern brasserie with the flavors of yesteryear. With globe lights, bench seating, and striped wallpaper, the restaurant embraces the classic brasserie aesthetic while adding a modern twist with colors like green and pink. On the menu, you’ll find classics like deviled eggs, onion soup, slow-roasted lamb shoulder, grilled beef, and duck breast. Special mention goes to the rotisserie spit where you can watch the suckling pig turn, as well as the cordon bleu, which is one of their signature dishes.
Brasserie Maillard, 17 rue Saint-Rémi, Bordeaux
Stunning decor, history, and refined cuisine at Le Chapon Fin
And we end this selection on a high note! Located in Bordeaux’s Golden Triangle, Chapon Fin, a true gastronomic institution, has continued to delight even the most discerning palates since its founding in 1825. Housed beneath volcanic rock vaults dating back to 1902, this three-Michelin-starred restaurant offers an unparalleled culinary experience in a listed Rococo setting. This setting also bears witness to the opulence of the Belle Époque. Under the direction of new chef Younesse Bouakkaoui since December 2023, Le Chapon Fin has elevated itself to an even higher level of sophistication, while retaining signature dishes such as sweetbreads and lobster. Its wine cellar, among the most prestigious in Bordeaux, houses vinicultural treasures including the famous bottle of Château Yquem 1928. Celebrating its 200-year history in 2025, Le Chapon Fin remains undeniably a pillar of Bordeaux gastronomy, brilliantly blending tradition and modernity.
Le Chapon Fin, 5 rue Montesquieu, Bordeaux
