George Clooney’s 425-acre French estate has vineyards and olive groves; he now plans an Italian restaurant nearby |
George Clooney and his wife, Amal Clooney, own a 425-acre estate in Provence, southern France, where vineyards, landscaped gardens and open countryside offer a quieter setting away from Hollywood. The property, known as Domaine du Canadel, has become an important part of the couple’s life in France. Now, the actor is reportedly preparing to extend his connection with the region by opening an upscale Italian restaurant in the nearby village of Cotignac. According to recent reports, the restaurant could welcome its first customers in spring 2027.
What makes George Clooney’s 425-acre French estate special
The Clooneys purchased Domaine du Canadel in 2021, adding a substantial Provençal property to their international real estate portfolio. Architectural Digest reported that the estate covers 425 acres and includes vineyards, gardens and tennis courts. It placed its purchase price at approximately $8.3 million.Located near Brignoles in the Var department of southern France, the property offers the couple space and privacy in a rural setting. Its vineyards and landscaped grounds reflect the character of the surrounding region, where agriculture and wine production are part of the local landscape.The estate also fits into the couple’s wider collection of homes, which has included properties in England, Italy and the United States. However, their French property has gained particular attention as they spend more time in Provence.
The restaurant will bring Italian dining to Cotignac
The planned restaurant is expected to occupy the former Les 3 Marches pizzeria at 11 Cours Gambetta, a central address in Cotignac. According to Yonder’s report, renovation work had already begun, and the proposed opening was scheduled for spring 2027.The venue is reportedly being developed as an upscale Italian restaurant rather than a straightforward neighbourhood pizzeria. However, important details, including its name, chef, menu and prices, have not been officially announced.Luxurylaunches also reported on the project, describing it as Clooney’s move into high-end dining in Provence. The existing premises previously served wood-fired pizzas and other dishes, but the new venture is expected to introduce a more refined dining experience.The restaurant’s location in the centre of Cotignac could make it accessible to residents and visitors exploring the village. Its opening would also give the area another dining destination at a time when Clooney’s connection with Provence is attracting international attention.
Cotignac, the picturesque Provençal village where George Clooney is reportedly opening his first upscale Italian restaurant. Image Credit: LuxuryLaunches
Why has Clooney chosen a village near his estate
Cotignac lies close to the actor’s Domaine du Canadel estate, making the village a natural location for a business venture connected to his life in the region. The village is known for its traditional streets and striking limestone and tufa cliff, which rises above the historic centre.Grazia USA reported that the restaurant was taking shape in the former pizzeria and that the building was undergoing renovation. The publication also noted that the restaurant’s precise concept remained under wraps, despite reports that it would focus on Italian cuisine.The project is being associated with Canadian entrepreneur Graham Porter, who owns Hotel Lou Calen in Cotignac. Yonder also identified Porter as Clooney’s reported business partner. His existing hospitality business gives the proposed restaurant a connection to the local tourism and dining scene.Local interest has reportedly been strong. Yonder quoted a village restaurateur who expected the new address to attract additional visitors. Clooney has already been spotted around the area, and his visits with Amal to the local bistro Picotte have reportedly brought increased attention to the establishment.
Clooney’s long-standing connection with Italy
Although the restaurant is planned for France, its Italian focus reflects a connection that goes back years. Clooney has owned Villa Oleandra, a historic property on the shores of Lake Como in Italy, since 2002, according to Architectural Digest’s account of the couple’s property portfolio.His association with Italian life extends beyond real estate. Luxurylaunches reported that the actor has a particular fondness for Italian food, including handmade pesto gnocchi and risotto. It also described his long-standing relationship with private chef Viviana Frizzi, who began cooking for him in 2013.Italian cuisine therefore has a personal connection for Clooney, rather than being an entirely new direction for his business interests. The proposed restaurant would bring that interest to a French setting, combining a style of food associated with his years in Italy with the atmosphere of a Provencal village.
The Clooneys have made France a major part of family life
The restaurant plan comes as the couple’s ties to France have strengthened. Grazia USA reported that George and Amal Clooney, along with their twins, became French citizens in late 2025. Their estate near Brignoles has consequently become more than a holiday retreat in the region. The move towards a restaurant also marks a different kind of venture from the couple’s residential property investments. The project remains at an early stage in public terms.
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