Restaurants in Le Mans | Our Recommendations

Another Le Mans summer is fast approaching. Every year, the legendary town of Le Mans in northwest France welcomes hundreds of thousands of people for some iconic motorsport events

The town is flooded with vibrant international activity surrounding the racing, meaning that those catching the on-track action need to be well fed and watered while they’re away from the Circuit de la Sarthe.

With an impressive array of bars and restaurants to suit everyone’s tastes, the culinary possibilities are endless in Le Mans, but for us there are a few that stand out.

Here are our recommendations when it comes to the best restaurants in Le Mans.

Five of the best Le Mans Restaurants

1. La Baraque à Bœuf – 11 Pl. Saint-Pierre, 72000

Tucked away in the heart of the Old Town of Le Mans, La Baraque à Bœuf offers a range of quintessentially French dining. With chic, classical decor, and an impressive range of desserts, this spot is one we definitely recommend on a trip to Le Mans. For steak lovers it is a must – just don’t be alarmed if you find a cheeky hashbrown hidden underneath it!

No website
Contact: +33 2 43 28 06 07

2. Le Vigo – Le Vigo, 2 Rue Gambetta, 72000

The perfect place to grab lunch or have a drink after a long day of racing, Vigo is also located in the dead centre of Le Mans. Convenient and always with a decent atmosphere on race weekends, Vigo is open a little later, until 11pm. The restaurant is traditionally French in style, and usually has free tables both in and outside.

Le Vigo.fr
Contact: +33 2 43 87 71 58

3. Franckette Bar Guinguette – La Visitation, 1 Rue Gambetta, 72000

The ideally situated Franckette Bar Guingette is positioned incredibly centrally in Le Mans and near many of the hotels. Its trendy interior is nicely reflected in the menu, with guests able to enjoy a gourmet aperitif while tasting their fantastic selection of beers, wines and cocktails. It is also open until 1am with a great music playlist, making it the perfect place to soak up the authentic French ambience.

www.franckettelemans.com
Contact +33 2 43 80 66 65

4. Brasserie Madeleine – 7 Pl. des Jacobins, 7200

This is a favourite of the Motorsport Travel Destinations staff. Specialising in seafood platters and French cuisine in its most authentic form, the Brasserie Madeleine never disappoints. The restaurant features spectacular views of the cathedral as well as very friendly English-speaking waiting staff.

https://www.brasseriemadeleine-lemans.fr/en/
Contact: +33 2 43 52 71 64

5. Exquis Grand Buffet – 2 Bd des Hunaudières, 72230

This is a bit of a wildcard recommendation. The Exquis Grand Buffet is located on the Mulsanne straight, so not ideal to visit while the race is going on, but is very close to our Gold site. At this buffet you’ll find reasonable prices, good quality of food and somewhere that caters for all culinary preferences.

https://www.exquis72.com/
Contact: +33 2 43 84 29 97

Food Specialities of Le Mans

Not sure what local specialities to try during your visit? Here are three local specialities you simply have to try!

Rillettes du Mans

This slow-cooked, heavily salted pork dish is an apéro favourite and was popularised in Le Mans during the 19th century. Serve on bread or crackers with gherkins and wash down with a red Bourgueil.

Chapon du Mans

Also known as Loué capon, chapon du Mans has been a firm favourite since the 17th century. It’s renowned for its tender and juicy meat, thanks to its unique rearing and feeding process and is usually roasted and served with regional vegetables. Best paired with a glass of Chablis 1er Cru.

Spiced cauliflower soup

A Loire region speciality, this soup is made with cauliflower, onions, garlic, celery, leek and a range of spices such as turmeric and cumin. It’s typically served with a unique curry sabayon topping, giving it its distinct flavour. Best served as a starter with curried croutons for added crunch.

Have you booked your Le Mans 2026 package yet?

Now that you’ve discovered the best Le Mans restaurants, it’s time to book your tickets! Head over to our main Le Mans booking page to explore your package options.

See you in Le Mans!

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