George Clooney plans Italian restaurant at French Estate by 2027

George Clooney’s French estate in Provence has drawn fresh attention as the Hollywood actor reportedly prepares to enter the restaurant business in southern France. The proposed Italian restaurant could open in Cotignac in spring 2027, according to media reports.

The project would add a hospitality venture to Clooney’s growing association with the French region. Meanwhile, his 425-acre Domaine du Canadel estate offers vineyards, landscaped gardens and extensive grounds.

The restaurant reportedly plans to occupy a former pizzeria in the village centre. However, its name, menu, chef and pricing remain undisclosed.

George Clooney’s French estate spans 425 acres

Clooney and his wife, Amal Clooney, purchased Domaine du Canadel in 2021. According to Architectural Digest, the property spans approximately 425 acres and includes vineyards, gardens and tennis courts.

The publication estimated the estate’s purchase price at around $8.3 million. The property lies near Brignoles in France’s Var department, an area known for its Provençal countryside and vineyards.

Furthermore, the estate provides the couple with a private retreat away from Hollywood. Its extensive grounds reflect the rural character of the surrounding region.

The George Clooney French estate also forms part of the couple’s international property portfolio. Their other properties have included homes in Italy, England and the United States.

However, the Provence property has attracted particular interest as reports highlight their growing connection with France.

Italian restaurant in Cotignac could open in 2027

The proposed restaurant is expected to occupy the former Les 3 Marches pizzeria at 11 Cours Gambetta in Cotignac. According to Yonder, renovation work had begun ahead of a potential spring 2027 opening.

The project reportedly aims to establish an upscale Italian dining destination rather than retain the premises’ former pizzeria format. However, the operators have yet to disclose the restaurant’s final concept.

Luxurylaunches has also reported on the planned venture. The publication described the project as Clooney’s move into high-end dining in Provence.

Previously, the premises served wood-fired pizzas and other dishes. The proposed restaurant could introduce a more refined Italian dining experience to the village.

Additionally, its central location could attract residents and tourists exploring Cotignac. The opening may also draw visitors interested in Clooney’s reported business venture.

Nevertheless, the restaurant’s launch plans remain based on media reports. Further details about its operations and ownership have yet to emerge publicly.

Why has Clooney reportedly chosen Cotignac?

Cotignac lies close to the George Clooney French estate near Brignoles. The village’s proximity to the property makes it a natural location for a venture linked to the actor’s life in Provence.

The village features traditional streets and a distinctive limestone and tufa cliff above its historic centre. Consequently, Cotignac attracts visitors seeking a traditional Provençal setting.

According to Grazia USA, renovation work was underway at the former pizzeria. The publication also reported that the restaurant’s precise concept remained under wraps.

Canadian entrepreneur Graham Porter has reportedly joined Clooney in the venture. Yonder identified Porter as the actor’s reported business partner.

Porter owns Hotel Lou Calen in Cotignac, giving the reported partnership an existing connection to the local hospitality industry. However, publicly available details about the restaurant’s ownership structure remain limited.

Local restaurateurs have also reportedly expressed interest in the proposed opening. Yonder quoted a village restaurateur who expected the new establishment to attract additional visitors.

Meanwhile, reports have linked Clooney’s visits to the area with increased attention for local businesses. He and Amal have reportedly visited Picotte, a bistro in the region.

Clooney’s Italian connection goes beyond the restaurant

Although the proposed restaurant would open in France, Italian cuisine has a long-standing connection with Clooney. According to Architectural Digest, the actor has owned Villa Oleandra on Italy’s Lake Como since 2002.

The historic lakeside property has long featured in coverage of his life in Italy. Furthermore, his association with Italian food extends beyond his property interests.

Luxurylaunches has reported on Clooney’s fondness for Italian dishes, including handmade pesto gnocchi and risotto. The publication also highlighted his relationship with private chef Viviana Frizzi, who reportedly began cooking for him in 2013.

Therefore, the planned restaurant would bring an established culinary interest into a new business setting. Its reported Italian focus could also distinguish it from conventional dining options in the French village.

However, the restaurant’s menu and culinary leadership remain unconfirmed. It is not yet clear whether Clooney’s personal food preferences will influence the final offering.

French estate reflects the Clooneys’ growing ties to France

The proposed restaurant comes amid reports of a deeper family connection with France. Grazia USA reported that George and Amal Clooney and their twins became French citizens in late 2025.

Their Provence property has consequently taken on greater significance in reports about the family’s life in France. The estate provides a rural base in a region known for its vineyards and villages.

Meanwhile, the reported restaurant project would represent a different investment from the couple’s residential properties. It could also establish a new commercial presence in Cotignac.

However, several important details remain outstanding, including the restaurant’s name, menu, pricing and confirmed opening date. Until the operators release further information, the spring 2027 launch remains a reported plan rather than a confirmed opening.