Within a 200-year-old country house and garden nestled in the hills, vineyards, and olive groves of Cotignac, the cuisine of Jardin Secret celebrates naturally-sourced ingredients and a return to simple flavors. Every dish is inspired by local seasonal gastronomy so that guests can rediscover the taste of authentic Provence. Each day, let yourself be surprised by a unique menu created by Benoit Witz, with three or four carefully orchestrated courses.
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.
Upcoming events at Jardin Secret
Sunday February 9th
Cooking Black Truffle
Sunday February 23rd
Cooking Root Vegetables
Sunday March 16th
Cooking Class : Crusty Pie
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.
