Eating in Nice: Our favorite places
From local specialties to delicious pastries.
Elegant yet comfortable
Bistrot Marin
The food here is mouth-watering, the atmosphere elegant yet comfortable, the service attentive and relaxed and the prices won’t break the bank. It’s in the 2016 Michelin Guide.
Heavenly pastries
Deli Bo
Don’t be discouraged by the lines for lunch or Sunday brunch at Deli Bo – they move fast and you’ll be rewarded by the comforting food and lively atmosphere. Perfect for people-watching in Nice’s trendy, so-called “Marais” area.
The best socca in town
L’atelier
Socca is a specialty in the south of France, especially in Nice, so no visit is complete without tasting at least one. L’Atelier takes this pancake or crêpe made of chickpea flour and turns it into a culinary event with a choice of eclectic toppings and combinations.
Coffee, cookies and cats
La Ronronnerie
If you’re a cat lover, this café is the place for you. Enjoy your coffee and pastry in the company of the resident cats. If you’re allergic to the feline creatures, there’s always Charlie’s & Co next door. No cats, but good, simple lunches at this homey café with plenty of students from the local ‘lycée’.
Extra sweet
Patisserie Canet
Patisserie Canet elevates pastry to an art. Choosing just one treat to go with your coffee or tea will be extremely difficult – so taste two.
Fantastic sea view
Le Meridien
Yes it’s touristy, but it’s good too! Le Meridien hotel’s La Terrasse restaurant and adjoining rooftop bar are definitely worthwhile, especially for the sea view.
Popular bar in the Old Town
Cave de la Tour
Stop in for an “apéro” at this busy bar in the Old Town bursting with character and good cheer. Grab a bar stool outside if it’s too crowded.
Coffee from around the world
Cafés Indien
If coffee is more your thing, there’s Cafes Indien, also in the Old Town. They carry coffee beans from around the world. Try a cup of the ‘café du jour.’
Reasonably prices
Le Comptoir du Marché
Excellent food and value at this friendly restaurant in Nice’s Old Town. Slow-cooked beef, octopus: the chalkboard menu changes according to what’s fresh. The place can be crowded but the staff will try to accommodate you on the outdoor patio or indoors. Similar reasonably priced, good cookin’ options in the neighborhood are Chez Palmyre at 5, rue Droite and Acchiardo on 38 rue Droite.
A jazzy end to the evening
Le Shapko Bar
Top off the evening with jazz, soul, or why not funk music, at Le Shapko Bar in the Old Town. Live music every evening with a happy hour from 18:00-21:00.
Text by Cari Simmons