Le Provençal Fayence - Cuisine d’ici et surtout d'ailleurs — Restaurant in Draguignan

I’m genuinely unsure why the owner took such exception to my family during our visit today. We asked politely for a table (in my best French!), and one was offered without any clarification on food expectations. Having previously enjoyed drinks here, we assumed a drink and a shared starter would be acceptable.

However, upon ordering two glasses of wine, two soft drinks, and a large starter to share, the owner became suddenly and inexplicably hostile. He raised his voice, caused a scene that left other diners staring, and behaved in a physically intimidating manner—leaning over me to snatch menus from beneath my arms. He also swore at me and said, verbatim, “This is a place for local residents, not tourists… I am so fed up of people like you.”

It was incredibly upsetting and humiliating. I can only assume that by “people like you,” he meant English tourists. If so, this kind of xenophobia is both saddening and surprising. As someone from London, I’m proud that we don’t judge people by where they come from—we welcome everyone.

To be clear, I offered to pay several times and tried to de-escalate the situation. But the owner continued to argue aggressively. When I eventually walked away, a female staff member followed, and I explained I’d happily settle the bill if the owner would apologise for his language and behaviour. Her response was simply, “Just go then.”

It’s particularly disheartening, as we’ve always felt warmly welcomed in France. We spend around eight weeks a year in the region and love supporting local businesses. I’ve heard Fayence is still recovering post-lockdown, which makes such hostility even more baffling. This was an honest misunderstanding—one that could have been resolved calmly and respectfully.

To be fair: the food is good, the setting lovely, and the wine list respectable. But be warned—this establishment made it clear it caters to locals only. Fortunately, there are many other restaurants in Fayence where tourists are greeted with kindness and hospitality. We’ll be going to those...

My husband and I dined here twice while on holiday, once for dinner and once for coffee. We loved our experience both times. The food is delicious! My husband had the steak and the sauce was so flavorful that I dipped my bread in it. The salad was fresh and filled with goodies. We also enjoyed the coffee and fresh pastries. And, the staff is so kind. They took time to get to know us, made great recommendations, and greeted us as friends when we passed by the next day. Highly recommend...

Bonsoir, Très déçu de cette Suggestion du Jour wouahou, Melon, Burrata écoeurante, Salade Mesclun en sachet, Tomate d'Intermarché sans aucun goût, fade, acide. Je reviendrai prochainement pour vous apprendre également comment faire un sauce vinaigrette moutarde balsamique huile d'olive...🙄 et le pompon le Pain de la Veille tout mous😒cette suggestion du jour pour 21€ c'est dans la médiocrité et l'Abus sérieusement, vs vs moquez des gens là ..Honnêtement décevant car l'intérieur est vraiment chaleureux.. Et pour finir sur cette appellation Le Provençal Fayence mdr, la saisonnière c'est vite empressée de débarrasser cette salade.... Nous avions mangé juste avant au Gorge du Sillans Salade Tomate Charcuterie, mais vraiment rien à voir avec votre soit...