Plum

With its lush exotic plants, retro leather benches and hidden patio, Plūm has created a rift in space and time, right in the center of Châteauroux. From the open kitchen, chef Tony Laurent-Perrot (ex-Brasserie des Halles and Café Face) tirelessly whips up plates with well-traveled inspirations, guided by the changing seasons. On the night we went, there was plenty to share – or devour solo: stunning grilled octopus paired with creamed corn, explosively flavorful piquillo peppers and herbaceous oil; neo-classical roasted eggplant with whipped tahini feta, dotted with raspberries and pistachios – or a show-stopping savory brioche French toast with burrata, puffed quinoa and charred peach salsa; and if you absolutely want a sweet treat after your meal, there were delicate strawberries marinated in vanilla and lemon, with delicious pistachio Chantilly cream and toasted buckwheat. // Megan Linard

FEELING THIRSTY? Instead of the Château Martinolles chardonnay (€34 a bottle), opt for the well-made cocktails by master mixologist Nathanaël Van Hulle, like the Mémé Suze featuring Italian bitters, pineau blanc, lime and raspberries (€12) or the Pluma Colada made with pineapple, coconut purée and violet syrup (€9).
PRICE: : Plates €12-17, desserts €9.