In Cotignac, behind the centuries-old stones nestled among vineyards and olive groves, the Jardin Secret restaurant promotes natural produce and a return to fine, simple ingredients. Chef Benoit Witz crafts his own instinctive cuisine, driven by seasonal fare: freshly picked vegetables, local meat, fresh fish – all perfectly cooked, with an authentic taste that expresses itself with real sincerity. Each day, a unique three- or four-course menu celebrates Provence in its most traditional form.
After its winter break, Le Jardin Secret reopens on 13 February.
jardinsecret@loucalen.com

Menus available until 27 April

Menus available from 30 April

Having grown up on a small family farm in Alsace, Benoit developed a passion for both gardening and cuisine.

He then followed his vocation to the greatest kitchens in France under the direction of Paul Bocuse and Alain Ducasse, who went on to entrust Benoit with several of Ducasse’s prestigious restaurants in Provence and Monaco. Seduced by the enchanting setting of Cotignac and Lou Calen’s exciting heritage, Benoit was content to return to the Var countryside and a newfound source of inspiration. Benoit enjoys working with local producers to ensure the highest quality cuisine. Benoit delights in combining flavours and textures to enhance simple yet significant seasonal ingredients.

Jardin Secret is dedicated to a well-researched ecological approach that prioritises short-circuit, zero-waste cuisine.

We are committed to working with carefully selected food producers in the region. Our menu includes fresh fruits and vegetables directly from our garden and greenhouse, as well as seasonal products from the Cotignac market. We offer a concise and generous menu that changes regularly, as well as themed meals and events such as concerts and other festivities. The MICHELIN Green Star awarded in March 2023 attests to our commitment to eco-responsible gastronomy. The Restaurant Engagé label (Motivated Restaurant) distinguishes restaurateurs that have taken a step towards an environmentally responsible approach. The Jardin Secret restaurant is now recognised by the Culinary College of France for its action towards culinary diversity.

Benoit Witz meets Huguette Caren, marking the renaissance of the once renowned restaurant at Lou Calen.

Chef Benoit Witz was delighted to cook with Huguette Caren, esteemed former owner and chef of Lou Calen. By sharing her precious recipes for which Lou Calen was famous, Huguette contributed towards restoring the heritage of this historic venue in Cotignac.

Events that might interest you

Lunch & Pool

Lou Calen is opening its doors to a Provençal oasis for every aspect of your wellbeing. From April to October, enjoy the luxury of the estate’s three swimming pools, before and after lunch in one of its two acclaimed restaurants. Treat yourself to a wonderful and restful day full of relaxation and culinary delights.

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Join us

Nestled in the heart Cotignac in Provence, Jardin Secret invites you to enjoy exceptional food in an extraordinary setting.

The Lou Calen estate is located an hour away from Aix-en-Provence and Marseille, and 45 minutes away from the Gorges du Verdon.

Jardin Secret restaurant

13 Rue de l'Araignée
83570 Cotignac
Opening hours
Monday
Closed
Tuesday
Closed
Wednesday
Closed
Thursday
Closed
Friday
12pm - 2pm
7pm - 9pm
Saturday
12pm - 2pm
7pm - 9pm
Sunday
12pm - 2pm