Actor and entrepreneur George Clooney is expanding his business portfolio into the hospitality industry. He plans to open an upscale Italian restaurant in Cotignac, a picturesque village located in France’s Provence region. The project is moving forward in partnership with Canadian hotelier Graham Porter. It has a targeted opening date in spring 2027.
The proposed establishment will occupy the former Les 3 Marches pizzeria. It is situated at 11 cours Gambetta in the heart of Cotignac. Local reports from publications including Grazia Magazine indicate that renovation work on the property is already underway. However, the official restaurant name, executive chef, and menu have not yet been publicly disclosed.
Cotignac Mayor Jean-Pierre Véran confirmed Clooney’s involvement in the local development to the press. Municipal administrative records and formal planning applications did not formally list the actor’s name at the time of initial reporting. This leaves certain aspects of the timeline and development subject to future adjustments.
A Deepening Connection to France and Italy
The venture bridges two European regions close to Clooney’s heart. The 65-year-old actor and his wife, human rights lawyer Amal Clooney, split a significant portion of their time between their homes. These include Domaine du Canadel, a former wine estate near Brignoles acquired in 2021, and their long-held Villa Oleandra on Lake Como in Italy, which Clooney has owned since 2002.
The family further cemented their ties to France by obtaining French citizenship in December 2025. Clooney has frequently noted in interviews that he and his family prefer the quieter, more private routine of European country life over the constant spotlight of Hollywood.
Partnership With Local Hospitality Experts
For this restaurant project, Clooney is collaborating with Canadian entrepreneur Graham Porter. Porter is the owner of Cotignac’s established Hotel Lou Calen. Porter’s prior hospitality work in the area has helped elevate Cotignac as a refined destination while preserving its historical Provençal character.
Specific menu items remain unconfirmed. However, culinary insiders note that Clooney has often expressed a personal affinity for Italian cuisine. He frequently highlights dishes like gnocchi with pesto, risotto, pizza, and regional Italian specialties. The venue aims to offer a sophisticated dining experience rather than a casual neighborhood spot.
Proven Business Track Record Outside Hollywood
This marks Clooney’s first foray into the restaurant sector. However, the Oscar-winning actor has a proven history of major business ventures outside the entertainment industry. In 2013, he co-founded the ultra-premium tequila brand Casamigos. The brand was sold four years later in a landmark deal valued at up to one billion dollars.
Renovation work continues at 11 cours Gambetta. Future visitors and local residents can anticipate further announcements regarding the official name, opening timeline, and reservation details ahead of the planned spring 2027 launch.
