Download Our Summer Menu Collection

Since summer entertaining should be a breeze, this collection, designed with simplicity in mind, features 20 easy-to-follow recipes and a few menu suggestions. Download this PDF, which includes recipes for starters, main courses, side dishes, and desserts.

 Stephanie Villegas

blank

Born in San Francisco, California, Stephanie Villegas is a chef working and living in Provence. After a decade-long career in tech, Stephanie decided to follow her culinary passions and become a chef. She earned her culinary diploma at France's esteemed Ferrandi Paris and has worked in renowned restaurant kitchens from Paris to Provence. In 2022, she opened Laurel, a cooking school and private chef service located in the charming provençal village of Fontvieille.

With a mission to bring people closer together through food, her focus is on freshness and seasonality. As a Mexican-American, married to a Frenchman, living in Provence, you can be sure to find inspirations from around the world in her dishes.

On her table, you'll find ingredients you know, discover new ones and enjoy generous dishes of refined simplicity.

Explore Laurel here.

blank
Carolyne Kauser-Abbott · Explore · Villages Towns and Cities

Explore Provence’s Essence: 6 Stunning Villages Worth Visiting

June 25, 2025
When someone asks what villages in Provence are worth visiting. It is hard to answer as there are perched Medieval hamlets, famous wine villages, attractive seaside ports, and vibrant urban centres. This list highlights six (6) stunning villages showcasing the region’s rich history and vibrant lifestyle. Luberon Villages Provence is known for its picturesque villages …
Continue Reading
blank
Carolyne Kauser-Abbott · Local Food Producers · Provencal Recipes · Taste

The Summer Truffle Festival in Aups is a Culinary Treat – Don’t Miss Out!

June 23, 2025
Located between the Mediterranean coast and the Alps, the village of Aups sits at 505 metres (1,657 ft). Considered the capital of the Haut-Var, this mid-sized town has a population of roughly 2200 residents. However, on a busy summer weekend, Aups attracts many visitors. It is considered the “gateway” to the Verdon Regional Natural Park, …
Continue Reading
blank
Carolyne Kauser-Abbott · Hotels Provence & Cote d'Azur · Restaurant Recommendations · Stay: Accommodation & Rentals in Provence · Taste

Where to Eat in Provence? Domaine la Pierre Blanche is a Food Lovers’ Paradise

June 18, 2025
As the sun gracefully dips behind the Alpilles, the landscape is bathed in a gentle golden glow that dances across the grapevines, offering a prelude to an enchanting evening in Provence. This region’s luminous light, which has long captured the imaginations of celebrated artists, serves as a backdrop to the “Rosé Mule,” a tantalizing cocktail …
Continue Reading
blank
Carolyne Kauser-Abbott · Explore · Villages Towns and Cities

Provençal Villages: Céreste Reasons to Visit and Stay Awhile

June 13, 2025
Céreste is an authentic, unspoilt, and charming Provençal village. It is immersed in lavender country, steeped in history, and sits on the foothills of the Grand Luberon. While the region has many fascinating villages, we asked the owner of Mas de Grivet, a beautiful holiday rental home, what makes Céreste unique. The answers below should …
Continue Reading
blank
Carolyne Kauser-Abbott · Expat Living and Real Estate · Inspire · What's On Provence & Cote d'Azur

Maison Victoire – Get your Copy of their New Magazine

June 11, 2025
For those who believe print media is a thing of the past, Maison Victoire’s new glossy magazine is a revelation. Launched on June 5, this exclusive offering provides comprehensive real estate data for buyers and sellers in Provence. It’s not just about real estate; it’s a celebration of local vineyards, artists, and the charming L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue. …
Continue Reading