The Best Restaurants in Marseille, France

Are you planning a trip to Marseille and wondering where to dine? Look no further! Marseille is a foodie heaven, with a rich culinary heritage that blends French, Mediterranean, and North African cuisine. From cozy bistros to Michelin-starred restaurants, the city offers a diverse range of dining experiences to suit all budgets and tastes. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the best restaurants in Marseille that you won’t want to miss. Bon appétit!

The Top Restaurants in Marseille

🍴 Le Petit Nice – Passedat

🍴 L’Épuisette

🍴 Le Ventre de L’Architecte

🍴 Chez Fonfon

🍴 Les Trois Forts

🍴 La Table du Fort

🍴 Le Malthazar

🍴 La Cantinetta

🍴 Le Café des Épices

🍴 Le Bistrot de L’Horloge

🍴 Le Relais 50

🍴 L’Aromat

🍴 Le Comptoir Dugommier

Introduction: Marseille’s Food Scene

Marseille is the second-largest city in France and boasts a multicultural population that reflects its rich history as a major Mediterranean port. Over the centuries, the city has been influenced by various cultures, including Greek, Roman, and Arab, which have all left their mark on its cuisine. Today, Marseille is known for its vibrant and diverse food scene, which draws upon both its French and Mediterranean roots.

The city’s culinary heritage is characterized by its use of fresh seafood, aromatic herbs, and spices, such as saffron and cumin. Traditional dishes include bouillabaisse, a hearty fish stew, and pissaladière, a pizza-like tart topped with caramelized onions, anchovies, and olives. Marseille is also famous for its street food, such as panisses, deep-fried chickpea fritters, and socca, a savory pancake made from chickpea flour.

Whether you’re looking for a casual lunch or a fine-dining experience, Marseille has something for everyone. In the following sections, we’ll introduce you to some of the city’s top restaurants, from world-renowned eateries to hidden gems.

Le Petit Nice – Passedat 🍴

Founded in 1917, Le Petit Nice – Passedat is a three-Michelin-starred restaurant located on the waterfront, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Helmed by chef Gérald Passedat, the restaurant specializes in seafood dishes that showcase the freshest local ingredients. The menu changes with the seasons and features dishes such as sea urchin with citrus fruits and seaweed, and red mullet with bouillabaisse sauce.

The restaurant’s elegant and minimalist decor creates a serene atmosphere that complements the stunning sea views. For a truly unforgettable dining experience, book a table on the terrace and watch the sunset over the sea.

FAQ: What is the dress code for Le Petit Nice – Passedat?

The dress code at Le Petit Nice – Passedat is smart casual. We recommend avoiding shorts, flip flops, and overly casual attire.

L’Épuisette 🍴

Another seafood-focused restaurant, L’Épuisette is located in the picturesque Vallon des Auffes neighborhood, known for its colorful fishing boats and charming waterfront houses. The restaurant’s menu features classic Provençal dishes, such as bouillabaisse and grilled fish, as well as more innovative creations, such as langoustine ravioli with lemongrass and ginger.

The restaurant’s intimate and romantic atmosphere, with its white tablecloths and sea views, make it a popular spot for couples and special occasions. Don’t miss the opportunity to try one of the restaurant’s homemade desserts, such as the orange blossom crème brûlée.

FAQ: Does L’Épuisette offer vegetarian options?

While L’Épuisette is primarily a seafood restaurant, vegetarian options are available upon request. The chef can create customized dishes based on dietary restrictions and preferences.

Le Ventre de L’Architecte 🍴

Located in the trendy Cours Julien neighborhood, Le Ventre de L’Architecte is a cozy and eclectic bistro that serves traditional French cuisine with a contemporary twist. The restaurant’s decor is inspired by vintage French posters and flea market finds, creating a unique and charming ambiance.

The menu changes regularly and features dishes such as roasted lamb with rosemary, and pan-fried foie gras with fig chutney. The restaurant also offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options. Be sure to save room for the famous profiteroles, which come with a choice of chocolate, caramel, or raspberry sauce.

FAQ: Does Le Ventre de L’Architecte take reservations?

Yes, Le Ventre de L’Architecte accepts reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially for weekend evenings.

Chez Fonfon 🍴

Chez Fonfon is a Marseille institution, famous for its authentic bouillabaisse and convivial atmosphere. Located in the charming Vallon des Auffes neighborhood, the restaurant has been run by the same family for over 60 years.

The bouillabaisse, made with a variety of local fish and served with garlic croutons and a rich rouille sauce, is a must-try. The restaurant also offers other seafood and meat dishes, such as grilled octopus and roasted lamb. The lively and informal ambiance, with its red-checkered tablecloths and wooden chairs, makes Chez Fonfon a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

FAQ: Can I order bouillabaisse for one person at Chez Fonfon?

Due to the traditional preparation and serving style of bouillabaisse, it is typically served for a minimum of two people at Chez Fonfon. However, the restaurant may be able to accommodate single servings upon request.

Les Trois Forts 🍴

Situated on the top floor of the Sofitel Marseille Vieux-Port hotel, Les Trois Forts offers stunning panoramic views of Marseille and the sea. The restaurant’s contemporary decor, with its sleek white and black furnishings, creates a sophisticated and elegant ambiance.

The menu features French and Mediterranean cuisine with a modern twist, such as roasted scallops with chorizo and cauliflower purée, and lamb chops with thyme and honey. The restaurant also boasts an extensive wine list, with over 500 labels from around the world.

FAQ: Does Les Trois Forts have a dress code?

Les Trois Forts has a smart casual dress code. We recommend avoiding overly casual attire, such as shorts and flip flops.

La Table du Fort 🍴

La Table du Fort is located in the historic Fort Saint-Nicolas, which dates back to the 17th century. The restaurant’s elegant decor, with its high ceilings, chandeliers, and white tablecloths, creates a refined and romantic atmosphere.

The menu features contemporary French cuisine with an emphasis on local and seasonal ingredients, such as sea bream with fennel and orange, and lamb shoulder with honey and thyme. For a special treat, try the chef’s signature dessert, a chocolate sphere filled with raspberry sorbet.

FAQ: Does La Table du Fort have a vegetarian menu?

Yes, La Table du Fort offers a vegetarian menu upon request. The chef can also accommodate other dietary restrictions and preferences.

Le Malthazar 🍴

Le Malthazar is located in the trendy La Joliette neighborhood, near the historic port area. The restaurant’s industrial-chic decor, with its exposed brick walls and high ceilings, creates a hip and urban ambiance.

The menu features a fusion of French and Asian cuisine, with dishes such as miso-glazed cod and beef tataki with wasabi. The restaurant also offers a variety of sushi and sashimi options. Le Malthazar is a popular spot for after-work drinks, with a selection of signature cocktails and a lively bar scene.

FAQ: Does Le Malthazar have outdoor seating?

Yes, Le Malthazar has a terrace that offers outdoor seating during the warmer months. The terrace overlooks the city and provides a stunning view of the port area.

La Cantinetta 🍴

La Cantinetta is a charming and rustic Italian restaurant located in the heart of the Old Port. The restaurant’s cozy and intimate atmosphere, with its brick walls and low lighting, creates a warm and inviting ambiance.

The menu features traditional Italian dishes, such as homemade pasta and wood-fired pizza, as well as daily specials that highlight local and seasonal ingredients. The restaurant also offers a selection