Menton’s Mirazur restaurant and its chef Mauro Colagreco have been ranked as the fourth best restaurant in the world on the prestigious 50 Best list for 2017. Colagreco scored sixth place last year, but has clinched a position within the top four this year to be listed alongside gourmet giants such as  Eleven Madison Park in New York City, El Cellar de Can Roca in Spain and Osteria Francescana in Italy, which was the 2016 number one.

Mirazur offers a mix of Italian and Argentinian cuisine that echoes Colagreco’s personal story as being born in the South American nation to an Italian mother.

One of its many charms is its exceptional location; nestled between the mountains and overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. It offers a sublime setting in which one can enjoy Colagreco’s signature dish - oyster with tapioca, shallot cream and pear. His work is both original and a tasty combination of products bought daily at the local markets of Ventimiglia.

Colagreco arrived in France at the age of 22 where he did not know anyone and could not speak French. Yet through his hard work, dedication, and passion: “France recognises me for my work,” he says.

In 2006, he was able to invest 25,000€ with an associate to make Mirazur a reality and has since then earned two Michelin stars as well as other honourable titles such as the Four Toques with Gault & Milau.

France earned five other places on the 50 Best list: Arpège (12), Alain Ducasse au Plaza Athénée (13), Alléno Paris au Pavillon Ledoyen (31), Septime (35) and L’Astrance (46). Other than Mirazur, all other French restaurants on the list are found in Paris.

For the full list, please visit: www.theworlds50best.com.

Claire Davis