L'Isle Sonnante

L'Isle Sonnante is a Provençal restaurant at 7 Rue Racine in the old town of Avignon, in the Vaucluse department of Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, France. The name, meaning the ringing island, is a nod to a phrase used by Rabelais to describe Avignon for its many church bells, and the restaurant is in the quieter southern part of the walled centre, near the Carmes district and a short walk from the Palais des Papes. The kitchen serves traditional Provençal dishes, with aïoli and lamb with herbs listed as signatures. Aïoli, in its Provençal form, is a platter of poached salt cod, vegetables, boiled eggs and sometimes snails served with a garlic and olive oil sauce, and it is traditionally eaten on Fridays; the lamb is typically seasoned with thyme, rosemary and garlic. Other plates in this style may include soupe au pistou, tapenade, ratatouille and a seasonal fruit dessert. Prices are among the more accessible for a sit-down meal in the old town, at about EUR 28 to 40 (roughly $32-46) per person, and set menus tend to offer the best value. Wines are mostly local, with Côtes du Rhône, Luberon and Ventoux reds and Provence rosé the usual choices. The room is small and cosy, with a moderate noise level and an informal feel; dress is casual. Service is typically lunch and dinner from Tuesday to Saturday, though hours should be verified before visiting. Reservations are recommended, because the dining room has limited seating, and booking a few days ahead is advisable, with more notice during the Festival d'Avignon in July. The restaurant suits visitors seeking a hearty regional meal away from the busiest squares, and it combines easily with a walk along Rue des Teinturiers.