Ginko

Ginko is one of the most compelling young fine dining addresses in northern France, located on the rue de l’Hôpital Militaire in central Lille, facing the Saint-Étienne church and minutes from the Grand’Place. The restaurant is the shared creation of two exceptional talents: chef Valentina Giacobbe, an Italian who grew up across Japan, South Korea, and the Philippines, trained under Pierre Gagnaire at Gaya, and worked with Diego Delbecq at Rozo; and pastry chef Julien Ingaud-Jaubert, who distinguished himself at Gagnaire, Meurin, and La Laiterie. Together they opened Ginko in September 2023, earning a Michelin star in March 2025 alongside the prestigious Michelin Young Chef Award for Valentina. The cuisine unfolds through seasonal menus built around vegetables and shaped by the chef’s multicultural heritage: Japanese precision, Italian warmth, and the produce of the northern region combine in a style that is genuinely singular and consistently awarded by Gault&Millau. A fully vegetarian tasting menu is always available alongside the main menu. Custom-made ceramic tableware by local artisan Charlotte Caulliez in Wambrechies adds further visual refinement to every course. A chef’s table of six to eight covers facing the open kitchen offers the most immersive experience. Open Tuesday through Saturday for dinner, and Thursday through Saturday for lunch.