Caffé César, Restaurant L’initial — Restaurant in Grasse

What a gem!!! We had the pleasure of dining at Caffé César, and it was an experience that felt both refined and genuinely exciting. From the moment the first dish arrived, it was clear that quality ingredients were at the heart of the menu. Each plate showcased a respect for seasonality and freshness, but what made the meal truly memorable were the bold, unexpected combinations that transformed familiar flavors into something extraordinary.

The mains were a study in creativity and precision. Like the fish of the day served on a lemon sauce with cardamom and a pumpkin puree; the lam tart, the veal casserole “Caffé”and the beef served with purple carrot puree and mushroom puff pastry. These weren’t just dishes; they felt like carefully composed stories told through ingredients.

Desserts carried the same spirit of innovation. Like a the delicate apple tart sprinkled with celery powder and served with tiny celery pieces; not to forget the white peaches served with a pistachio mousse and a jelly of jasmin — a combination that sounded daring on paper but revealed itself as refreshing and elegant.

Presentation throughout the evening was thoughtful without being fussy: each plate felt artful, but the focus remained firmly on flavor. Service mirrored the food—attentive, knowledgeable, and warmly enthusiastic about the chef’s vision.

Caffé César is not just about eating well; it’s about being surprised, delighted, and reminded that fine dining can be inventive without losing its soul. A place we returned to in the one week of holiday, as the menu changes weekly, and recommend to anyone seeking a meal that...

Exceptional food, great service, even for dumb Americans who love food. We've been all over Europe and this casual yet refined restaurant ticks all the boxes: no frills dining, local feel, great service and divine food.

Camille started us off with a Puilly Fuissé that paired excellently with our starters, the shrimp roullete & the gnocchi. Then they were out of a Pinot from Provence that they were out of so she swapped it for a Beaujolais (of which we were skeptical) that turned out to be perfect for our lamb, cod & raviolo. And it was €20 cheaper! Finally we had a triple layer chocolate cake and a plum desserts that were so good I can't begin to criticize them.

On top of all that we had a gluten allergy that they were highly attentive to and we'd been sat outside before it started to pour so they deftly moved us in with no interruption to service.

On top of that there were little things you notice working in hospitality: no food served until wine is poured; a fork clangs to the floor and someone's there with a replacement; someone goes for a cigarette break and the second they sit back down the dessert is served.

HIGHLY recommend! Don't go expecting a fussy white glove experience but go with friends and have fun while enjoying an...

The best meal and service we’ve had in France—hands down!

We stumbled upon Caffé César L’initial and were absolutely blown away. So much so, we returned for dinner the same day after having an incredible lunch! The food was exceptional—creative, fresh, and beautifully executed—but what made our experience truly unforgettable was the warmth and generosity of the team.

A special thank you to Guillaume, whose hospitality and kindness made us feel so welcome. And to the chefs—thank you for your talent and generosity. Every dish was a delight. This place is a true gem, and easily our most memorable dining experience in France.

We hope you make it to Sydney to visit your best friend, Guillaume :)

All the best to the whole crew at Caffé César. — Emma,...