3 Best Restaurants in Lyon and the Alps, France

Set back near the river in Annecy's picturesque old town, this casual, laid-back restaurant is a place the locals would rather keep to themselves. From the first amuse-bouche to dessert, diners can't wait to taste what's next from a cuisine anchored in French technique and enhanced with plenty of far-flung influences. Prices are gentle for this quality of food and its a favorite in town, so be sure to reserve.

For 80 years this sawdust-strewn café with homey red-check tablecloths has reigned as one of the city's leading bouchons, and although its glory days are long past, it's still a good bet for an authentic experience. For a taste of classic Lyon gastronomy in a historic setting, the deftly prepared local classics like boudin noir, boudin blanc (white-meat sausage), or andouillettes (veal and pork tripe sausage) are hard to beat.

As the name would suggest, family photographs adorn the walls of this low-key bistro high on the Croix Rousse hillside. The simple cuisine tends toward traditional recipes and authentic Lyon fare made with organic and local ingredients. From the poulet fermier (free-range chicken) to the grilled trout, the daily chalkboard announces the market specialties that chef Gilles Mozziconacci has managed to cobble together on his early-morning market tour through Les Halles de Lyon. In summer, opt for a table on the terrace.