The gastronomic restaurant of Biarritz's legendary Hôtel du Palais, with floor-to-ceiling windows framing breathtaking views of the Atlantic. Chef Aurélien Largeau's Michelin-starred cuisine showcases the finest Basque ingredients—Hendaye clams, wild turbot, and Espelette pepper-spiced dishes with classical precision.
Villa Eugénie is the gastronomic restaurant of Biarritz's Hôtel du Palais, the imperial residence built by Napoleon III for Empress Eugénie in 1855 and today one of the great palace hotels of France. The restaurant carries a Michelin star and occupies a spectacular room with floor-to-ceiling windows that frame an unobstructed panorama of the Atlantic—the Grande Plage stretches to the left and the Rocher de la Vierge sits to the right, making every table a front-row seat to one of the most dramatic coastal views in Europe. Chef Aurélien Largeau's cuisine draws directly from the Basque Country's extraordinary larder: Hendaye clams, wild turbot from the Bay of Biscay, Basque Axuria lamb, and Espelette pepper used as a thread running through the menu rather than a garnish. Classical French technique underpins every plate—sauces are built slowly, reductions precise—but the flavors are unmistakably of this coast. The tasting menu of seven courses changes with the seasons; the wine list is one of the most comprehensive in the Basque region, with particular depth in Irouléguy, Txakoli, and Bordeaux. Dress is formal—this is a palace hotel dining room—and the service matches the grandeur of the setting without stiffness. Dinner only, served daily. Reservations are recommended two to four weeks in advance for peak summer season when Biarritz is at capacity with the European surf and luxury travel crowd.
Signature dishes
- Basque Turbot — €65
- Roast Lamb Pyrenean — €55
Good to know
- Known for
- Atlantic views and Basque fine dining
- Hours
- 7:30PM-10PM daily (dinner only)
Location
1 Avenue de l'Impératrice, 64200 Biarritz
43.4851, -1.5612 View on map
Highlights
- Floor-to-ceiling Atlantic Ocean views from every table—Grande Plage and Rocher de la Vierge as backdrop
- Michelin-starred Basque French cuisine by Chef Aurélien Largeau, rooted in the southwest's finest produce
- Set within Hôtel du Palais, Napoleon III's original imperial residence for Empress Eugénie
- Basque signature ingredients: Hendaye clams, wild turbot, Axuria lamb, and Espelette pepper throughout
- One of the Basque Coast's most distinguished wine lists with depth in Irouléguy, Txakoli, and Bordeaux
Tips for visiting
- Request a table directly facing the ocean when booking—the Atlantic panorama at sunset during the seven-course dinner is exceptional.
- The seven-course tasting menu is the strongest expression of the kitchen and represents better value than ordering à la carte.
- Book well ahead for July and August—Biarritz in high summer fills up quickly and the hotel attracts an international luxury clientele.
- Even non-guests of the Hôtel du Palais are welcome to dine; the restaurant does not prioritize hotel guests over reservations from outside.
- Dress formally—this is a palace hotel dining room and the atmosphere strongly calls for it.
Accessibility
The Hôtel du Palais is a grand nineteenth-century palace hotel with lift access throughout. The Villa Eugénie dining room is on the main floor, accessible by lift from the hotel entrance. The hotel is well-equipped for guests with mobility requirements; advance notice to the restaurant ensures appropriate seating with full ocean views.
Frequently asked questions
Do diners need to be staying at the Hôtel du Palais to eat at Villa Eugénie?
No—the restaurant is open to all guests with a reservation. Visitors not staying at the hotel are welcome and make up a significant portion of the clientele, particularly in the summer season.
What is the approximate cost per person?
The tasting menu is typically priced at around €150–€200 per person before wine. À la carte mains range from €55 to €75. Wine pairings add €80–€120 per person depending on the selection.
When is the best time to dine for the Atlantic views?
Late June through August provides the longest evening light—sunset falls after 9pm in high summer, allowing diners to watch the sky change color over the ocean throughout the meal. Spring and early autumn dinners catch the golden hour around 8pm.
Is the restaurant open year-round?
The Hôtel du Palais is open year-round, but Villa Eugénie's hours can vary by season. Dinner service is available daily in high season; reduced days in winter. Confirming with the hotel directly before visiting in low season is advisable.