Hélène Darroze à Villa La Coste in Provence has been awarded its first Michelin Star in the 2022 edition of the prestigious French Michelin Guide, announced at a ceremony held in Cognac in southwest France.

Nestled at the heart of the Château La Coste Estate near Aix-en-Provence, Hélène Darroze à Villa La Coste opened in July 2021 as a modern-day luxury palace celebrating authentic and exclusive refinement, in total harmony with the artistic life of the surrounding estate. Headed by celebrated chef Hélène Darroze, she works closely with her team of Head Chef Thomas Pezeril, Chef Pâtissière Marion Desmasures and Restaurant Manager Donato Caldarelli. The restaurant leans on its natural surroundings to create shifting seasonal menus of elegance and vibrancy.

Commenting, Hélène said, “We opened Hélène Darroze à Villa La Coste last summer, so I am delighted for Head Chef Thomas Pezeril and our team that we have received this recognition from Michelin so soon. It is a testament to their hard work and dedication. We have been inspired by the location and the rich abundance and diversity of the fruit and vegetables from this region. Thank you, Paddy and Mara Mckillen (owners of Villa La Coste) for giving me the opportunity to cook in such a beautiful place and the freedom to present my vision of Provence gastronomy.”

The achievement further adds to Hélène’s growing number of Michelin Stars, with two Michelin stars at Marsan par Hélène Darroze in Paris and three Michelin stars at Hélène Darroze at The Connaught in London.