Franco-Ukrainian restaurant Renée is redefining fine dining in Nice with its Mediterranean cuisine, artfully crafted cocktails and exceptional service. Set on the iconic Promenade des Anglais, it’s a chic new destination where every meal feels like a special occasion.
Nice has no shortage of restaurants, but few manage to capture the essence of effortless hospitality quite like Renée. Perched along the waterfront, this contemporary yet deeply personal establishment is redefining what it means to dine well in the city.
With its eclectic style, seamless service and a bold Mediterranean menu, Renée has, in just 12 months, become a standout destination for those who appreciate both artistry and attention to detail.
At the helm of the kitchen is Chef Vadim Astori, whose vision brings a refined yet playful touch to classic European and Mediterranean cuisine. Dishes are sophisticated without being fussy, highlighting bold flavours and impeccable technique.
We tried the salmon crudo with truffle and ponzu sauce – a delicate yet punchy introduction, while the Black Angus filet mignon Rossini, crowned with a lavish portion of foie gras and a rich meaty jus, delivered pure indulgence. Other standouts include the Iberian pork chop, homemade ravioli with girolle mushrooms, sole in a smoked beurre blanc, and duck breast glazed with honey and XO chilli. It’s the kind of menu that tempts you to return, just to uncover more of what’s on offer.
Beyond the kitchen, Renée’s personality shines in its approach to hospitality. Our bottle of red wine was attentively poured into an elegant crystal decanter and left to breathe as the first round of cocktails arrived. The bar, led by Marusya Okuschinska and Polina Kirdoglo, formerly of Sugaar Paris, is an experience of its own. Their cocktail menu, divided into playful categories like “wild and freaky” and “strong and serious”, showcases both technical mastery and a fearless sense of creativity. The truffle martini is a daring and seductive choice, offering just a glimpse of a cocktail list that, much like the food, invites guests on an adventurous exploration of flavour.
But Renée is more than just a beautiful space with great food and drinks—it has a story. This is the first French venture from the VarFamily hospitality group, founded by Anastasia and Alexander Varava. With six successful restaurants in Dnipro, Ukraine, the Varavas set out to bring their signature approach to service and atmosphere to the French Riviera. Renée embodies their philosophy: it’s not just about serving food, but about creating a memorable, heartfelt experience. Their French-Ukrainian background is reflected in the warmth and precision of the service, making each guest feel genuinely welcomed.
The restaurant itself is designed to offer different moods depending on the occasion. The terrace, with its sea views, is perfect for a relaxed afternoon, while the main dining room strikes a balance between elegance and comfort.
Tucked away inside is the Secret Room, an intimate space for private gatherings, where Renée has been collaborating with Unlimited Art Space to bring contemporary art into the dining experience. This partnership has transformed the restaurant into a cultural hub, showcasing works by emerging artists and creating a dialogue between gastronomy and artistic expression.
Most recently, Renée hosted an exhibition by Ukrainian artist Yevhen Klymenko, whose evocative blend of abstraction and symbolism offered guests a unique, immersive encounter with art. For the Nice Carnival, Renée will showcase a new exhibition by Guillaume Cavalier, a member of the École de Nice and Nouveau Réalisme movement, featuring recent works in a scenography inspired by the carnival’s vibrant colors and festive spirit. This ongoing collaboration continues to enrich the restaurant’s atmosphere, ensuring that each visit is not only a culinary delight, but also a journey into creative discovery.
Renée is a place where everything feels intentional, from the design to the drinks to the way each dish is presented. It’s a restaurant that doesn’t just serve food, but tells a story—one of craftsmanship, passion and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Whether stopping in for a cocktail, a lingering meal or simply to soak in the atmosphere, Renée is the kind of place that stays with you long after you leave.
See more of Cassandra Tanti”s experience in the video below…
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Main photo left: Chef Vadim Astori at Renée in Nice. Right: Angus beef filet mignon with foie gras and black truffle. All photos credit: Coline Ciais-Soulhat