La Croix d'Or

In the centre of the peaceful village of Ballaigues, near the French-Swiss border, this restaurant is housed in a magnificent edifice, dripping in history. At the helm are two virtuoso French chefs, David Sauvignet and Damien Lanza, who share a passion for good food. Their ambitious take on seasonal Gallic fare is delicate, strewn with subtle Mediterranean influences and crafted with outstanding, mostly local produce. Examples: Mieral pigeon, crispy potato pavé, confit of shallots and green peas; fillets of John Dory, sorrel-laced concentrate of tomato, fried artichokes. Meals are served in a swish interior or on the inviting terrace by a professional yet unstarched front-of-house team. Elegant rooms for overnight stays and a bargain-priced lunchtime menu.

• One Michelin star restaurant in Ballaigues, in a historic 17th century building.
• Run by chefs David Sauvignet and Damien Lanza.
• Terrace dining, plus on-site hotel rooms.

Signature Ingredients

• Seasonal local produce from the Jura vaudois
• Mediterranean accents, herbs, olive oil
• Fish and shellfish (as part of the seasonal menu mix)
• Poultry and game birds (seasonal)
• Classic French sauces and reductions

La Croix d'Or is a one Michelin star restaurant in Ballaigues, near the French Swiss border, set in a 17th century building with dining rooms and a terrace. The kitchen is led by chefs David Sauvignet and Damien Lanza, cooking seasonal French cuisine with subtle Mediterranean touches, often built around local produce.