L'Arbre

The story

L'Arbre Montpellier – Rooftop Bar & French Restaurant at Arbre Blanc

Two levels, one address

L'Arbre occupies two levels of Montpellier's landmark Arbre Blanc tower: a ground-floor restaurant and a 17th-floor rooftop bar. The restaurant, run by Eric Cellier alongside Charles and François Fontes, offers what they describe as an "audacious contrast" between the building's bold contemporary architecture and a return to the traditions of French gastronomy.

Restaurant – "en bas"

Downstairs, the kitchen draws on the culinary heritage of Occitanie. The menu is built around regional products, presented as "bourgeoise cuisine modernised" – concentrated in flavour, convivial and accessible. Dishes such as Tielle Sétoise, oeufs mimosa, chicken with crayfish, and grilled monkfish reflect a straightforward, refined approach that works with sometimes overlooked ingredients. The style is simple yet polished, rooted in the French brasserie tradition.

Rooftop bar – "en haut"

Seventeen floors up, the rooftop bar offers 360-degree views over the city, the sea, and the Cévennes. It serves a broad selection of wines, cocktails, and tapas, and is open Tuesday to Saturday until 1am. Thursday and Saturday evenings often feature a musical atmosphere, making it a natural spot for sunset drinks.

Recognition

L'Arbre's commitment to quality has earned it a Michelin Recommended distinction, a fitting nod to a restaurant that balances architectural spectacle with genuine, well-executed French cuisine.