Top 5 Foods to Ignite Romance in the South of France

Planning a romantic dinner at home or in a restaurant? Then you may want to choose the menu carefully. Certain foods, commonly referred to as aphrodisiacs, have earned a reputation for their ability to spark passion and desire. Follow us as we discover the top 5 foods that have long been associated with romance and sensuality. And finally, a personal disclaimer. I am not a fan of oysters but I can definitely say eating chocolate always puts me in a good mood.

1
Oysters

Oysters have held a revered status as an aphrodisiac for centuries. These bivalve mollusks are rich in zinc, a mineral crucial for the production of testosterone, a hormone linked to sexual desire in both men and women. Best served raw on the half-shell with a squeeze of lemon, you can enjoy oysters from September to April.

One of the best places to try them is at Café de Turin in Nice which has been serving seafood platters since 1908. Their oysters come from the famous Roumégous family who have been harvesting oysters in Charente-Maritime since 1891.  And they now own the Café. They also deliver over 60 tons each year to restaurants all along the French Riviera.
For more information, please visit: https://www.cafedeturin.fr/

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2
Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate has long earned a legion of fans, for its delicious bitter taste. But it also has the potential to stimulate pleasure and desire. It is packed with phenylethylamine, a compound associated with the release of endorphins. No reason to hold back as dark chocolate can induce feelings of euphoria and mimic the sensation of falling in love.

Established in 2015 in the old town of Grasse, Maison Duplanteur has transformed chocolate-making into an art form.  After a visit of the factory, discover its unique Grands Crus chocolate bars that pay homage to the local flower industry. They are adorned with delicate petals of roses or violets.
For more information, please visit: https://www.maisonduplanteur.com/1

3
Asparagus

Asparagus, with its phallic shape and tender texture, has been considered an aphrodisiac in various cultures. Rich in folate and vitamin E, asparagus promotes the production of histamine, a compound essential for the increase of sexual arousal. Grilled, roasted, or sautéed, asparagus can be a versatile addition to any romantic dinner.

From March to April, local wild asparagus known as “spargou” in Provençal language, can be found in areas close to forests. Make sure you bring a sharp knife and only pick the young tender stalks. Alternatively, drive to Bruno Oger’s Bistrot des Anges near Cannes and sample his delicious spring menu.
For more information, please visit: https://www.bruno-oger.com/en/bistrot-des-anges.html

4
Honey

Sweet and golden, honey has been associated with love and fertility in many cultures. It is rich in B vitamins and boron, which helps regulate estrogen and testosterone levels. And honey is believed to boost energy and enhance stamina. The sticky, luscious nature of honey makes it a tempting addition to a variety of dishes. Drizzle it over fruits or incorporate it into marinades to add a touch of sweetness.

Head to Le Tignet, a short drive from Grasse, for a honey tasting with Jean-Louis Lautard. He is a passionate beekeeper, specializing in single origin honey and he will enchant you with his knowledge of the life of bees.
For more information, please visit: https://www.lesproducteursdecaractere.com/fr/12__jean-louis-lautard-apiculteur

5
Avocados

The creamy texture and rich flavour of avocados have earned them a place on the list of aphrodisiac foods. Packed with vitamin E, potassium, and healthy fats, avocados contribute to overall cardiovascular health, essential for maintaining stamina and energy levels. Whether you slice them in a salad or mash them into guacamole, avocados can be a delicious and nutritious addition to a romantic meal.

France is the top consumer of avocados in Europe, and local market gardeners are now trying to grow their own avocados. Laurent Gannac produces tasty organic avocados in Menton, a seaside town more famous for its amazing Lemon Festival.
For more information, please visit: https://www.lamaisonducitron.com/fruits/avocat.html

Isabelle Bryan
Isabelle Bryan
Isabelle is a co-founder and editor of Riviera Edition. She has lived in France, the UK and Australia and is equally at ease writing (and dreaming) in English and French. She has been coming to the South of France for holidays since she was a child and now lives here with her young daughter. She has been published in ELLE, Premiere Movie Magazine, the Melbourne Age, the Australian Financial Review magazine and the Herald Sun. Isabelle loves swimming in the turquoise waters off the Iles de Lerins or strolling around the outdoor sculptures at Fondation Maeght in St Paul de Vence. Contact: isabellebryan@yahoo.com

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