Whether it’s a laid-back lunch by the sea or dancing the night away under the stars, these are two of the hottest places to go right now in Monaco

By Selma Day

Beach club chic
If you’re visiting the Monaco Yacht Show and want some chillout time away from the crowds – or you simply want to hang out with friends and enjoy the sun – Club La Vigie, with its stunning, unspoilt, natural setting on the seafront is the perfect spot.

There’s a free shuttle service to the club from Casino Square or, to make a grand entrance, why not arrive in style by speedboat at the private pontoon? Once you’re there, expect beach club vibes with great music, food and cocktails – a nod to the spirit of the 1950s when Monte Carlo became known for its chic partying.

Open from midday to 8pm, guests can enjoy a menu overseen by two-Michelin-starred chef Marcel Ravin, which has a strong focus on local and seasonal produce. There’s a selection of innovative starters such as tomato, watermelon and stracciatella; while mains include freshly-caught fish of the day and black Angus beef tomahawk with chimichurri sauce.

Don’t overlook the side dishes  – we particularly loved the pilau rice with star anise, seaweed and sesame. Finish with desserts such as strawberry crumble with hibiscus and whipped cream.

After lunch, you can relax in the lounge space or on a sunbed or escape to one of five secluded “love nest” bungalows hidden among the pines. Sit back, enjoy the enjoy the views and soak up the atmosphere.

Make a night of it
Back in the carefree days of the 60s and 70s, the likes of Maria Callas and Aristotle Onassis used to frequent the Maona. This summer has seen a new incarnation of the iconic Riviera club, which is just a short walk from Monte Carlo beach.

The open-air summer venue, which overlooks the sea, has returned to its roots, offering live music, local cuisine, creative cocktails and dancing.

From 7pm to 2am daily, guests can enjoy live entertainment while sipping delicious drinks that pay tribute to the different districts of Monaco, along with rare spirits such as vermouths from the 50s and 60s. Highlights include an after-dinner drink made from Monaco oranges.

Bar Sauvage is the place to enjoy an aperitif when, from 7pm to 9pm, guests can take a sea-view seat and relax to the sounds of a pianist with a cocktail, glass of champagne or wine, accompanied by cold meats and small bites.

As for the food in the main restaurant, the menu features a mix of old local family recipes and typical Monégasque cuisine – think barbajuans, estocaficada, socca and fougasse; influences from neighbouring Portofino and Nice with the likes of lasagne and pissaladière; and a must-try version of the peach melba – a nod to the great Auguste Escoffier who left his mark on the culinary history of Monaco.

There’s also the Tam Tam private room for just 15 guests – perfect for a group of friends to enjoy an exclusive Monte Carlo experience in an intimate and discreet setting.

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