2 Best Restaurants in The Basque Country, Gascony, and Hautes-Pyrenees, France

The Port des Pêcheurs (Fishing Port) provides a tantalizing glimpse of old Biarritz, plus some tantalizing dining options. Water views and salty harborside aromas make Chez Albert’s hearty fish and seafood offerings all the more irresistible. But beware, this easygoing eatery is definitely on the tourist radar—it's nearly impossible to find a seat on the terrace in summer.

Run by members of the Tellechea family since 1715, this former stagecoach inn in the Petit Bayonne quarter serves a combination of cuisine du terroir (home-style regional cooking) and original recipes in contemporary surroundings. Michelin-starred chef Jean-Claude Tellechea showcases fresh fish as well as specialties from the Basque hills, sometimes joining the two in dishes such as the merlu rôti aux oignons et jus de volaille (hake roasted in onions with essence of poultry). The Irouléguy wines offer the best value on the wine list. Be sure to be there on time: lunch ends at 1:30.