Nestled on the French Riviera, Nice offers more than just stunning views and beautiful beaches. Its food scene is vibrant and diverse, offering everything from traditional Niçoise dishes to creative modern cuisine. Over the course of my stay, I made it my mission to try out some of the city’s best eateries, and here’s my detailed guide to the restaurants that left the biggest impression on me.
1. Le Bistro du Port: Authentic Niçoise Cuisine with a View
One of my favorite dining experiences in Nice was at Le Bistro du Port, located right by the Port of Nice. This restaurant is known for its authentic Niçoise cuisine and incredible seafood dishes, with the added bonus of overlooking the harbor.
Location: 28 Quai Lunel, 06300 Nice, France. It’s situated right on the port, offering fantastic views of the Mediterranean and the yachts docked nearby.
How to Get There: Le Bistro du Port is easily accessible by foot from the city center, and it’s a pleasant 15-minute walk from the Promenade des Anglais. Alternatively, you can take bus 38 or tram Line 2 to Port Lympia and walk a short distance to the restaurant.
Personal Experience: I visited this spot for lunch, and the atmosphere was both relaxed and elegant. I ordered the Salade Niçoise, a dish that originated in Nice, and it was an absolute delight. The salad was fresh, vibrant, and packed with flavors of the Mediterranean—tuna, olives, eggs, tomatoes, and anchovies. For the main course, I had their famous bouillabaisse, a traditional Provençal fish stew. The seafood was so fresh that it tasted as though it had been caught that morning. I washed it down with a crisp local rosé, which paired perfectly with the meal.
Price Range: Dishes range from €18 for a salad to €35 for seafood platters. It’s reasonably priced considering the quality of the food and the prime location.
Reservation Tip: I highly recommend booking a table in advance, especially during the summer months. You can reserve a spot through their website or by phone.
Overall Rating: 9/10 – The view, the atmosphere, and the delicious Niçoise food made this one of my top choices in Nice. Don’t miss it if you love seafood and local cuisine!
2. La Petite Maison: Fine Dining in the Heart of Old Town
No trip to Nice would be complete without a visit to La Petite Maison, one of the city’s most famous and celebrated restaurants. Known for its upscale Mediterranean cuisine, it’s a favorite among locals, tourists, and even celebrities.
Location: 11 Rue Saint-François de Paule, 06300 Nice, France. It’s located in the heart of Vieux Nice (Old Town), just a short walk from Place Massena and the Promenade des Anglais.
How to Get There: It’s easy to walk to La Petite Maison from most central locations in Nice. If you’re using public transport, take tram Line 1 to the Opéra – Vieille Ville stop and walk for about 5 minutes.
Personal Experience: Dining at La Petite Maison was a true luxury experience. The ambiance is chic yet inviting, with beautifully set tables and attentive service. I decided to try their burrata with tomatoes to start, followed by their famous roast lamb with artichokes. Every bite was packed with flavor, and the lamb was cooked to perfection—tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned. The ingredients were incredibly fresh, and you could tell that every dish was made with care. The dessert, a light and airy lemon tart, was the perfect way to end the meal.
Price Range: It’s on the pricier side, with appetizers starting at €25 and mains going up to €50 or more. However, for the quality of the food and the overall experience, it’s worth every penny.
Reservation Tip: Reservations are essential, especially in the evenings and during peak tourist seasons. You can reserve online through their website or call ahead.
Overall Rating: 10/10 – La Petite Maison offers an unforgettable dining experience, from the exquisite food to the elegant atmosphere. It’s perfect for a special night out.
3. Peixes: Creative Seafood in a Casual Setting
For something a little more relaxed but equally delicious, Peixes is a must-visit. This small, trendy restaurant specializes in seafood and has quickly become a favorite among locals for its creative, contemporary dishes.
Location: 4 Rue de l’Opéra, 06300 Nice, France. It’s located in the Old Town, just a stone’s throw away from the Opéra de Nice.
How to Get There: Peixes is easily accessible by foot from most areas in the city center. If you’re coming from farther away, take tram Line 1 to Opéra – Vieille Ville and walk for a few minutes.
Personal Experience: I stumbled upon Peixes while exploring Old Town, and I’m so glad I did. The restaurant has a laid-back vibe with a modern design, and the menu focuses on fresh, sustainably sourced seafood. I ordered the ceviche with passion fruit, which was beautifully presented and bursting with vibrant flavors. I also tried their grilled octopus, which was cooked to perfection—tender on the inside with a slight char on the outside. The restaurant’s small plates are perfect for sharing, and the casual atmosphere made it an ideal spot for a light and fresh meal.
Price Range: Dishes range from €10 to €20, making Peixes one of the more affordable yet high-quality seafood spots in Nice.
Reservation Tip: It’s a small space, so I recommend booking ahead, especially if you’re visiting for dinner. You can make a reservation through their website or by calling.
Overall Rating: 8/10 – Peixes is perfect for a casual, seafood-centric meal with a modern twist. The relaxed atmosphere and reasonable prices make it a great spot for lunch or dinner.
4. Chez Pipo: The Best Socca in Town
If you’re looking to try some traditional Niçoise street food, look no further than Chez Pipo, famous for serving the best socca in Nice. Socca is a chickpea flour pancake that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside—an absolute must-try when you’re in the city.
Location: 13 Rue Bavastro, 06300 Nice, France. Chez Pipo is located just a short walk from the port, in a quieter part of town.
How to Get There: You can walk from the city center, or take bus 38 or tram Line 2 to the Garibaldi stop. From there, it’s just a few minutes on foot.
Personal Experience: I couldn’t leave Nice without trying its famous socca, and Chez Pipo came highly recommended by locals. The restaurant is unpretentious, with a cozy, bustling atmosphere. I ordered a portion of socca along with a side of pissaladière, a traditional Niçoise onion tart with anchovies and olives. The socca was everything I hoped for—crispy, slightly smoky, and utterly delicious. Paired with a glass of local wine, it was the perfect midday snack.
Price Range: Very affordable, with socca priced at around €3 per portion. The rest of the menu is similarly wallet-friendly, making it a great option for budget travelers.
Reservation Tip: No need to book, as it’s a casual spot where you can grab a quick bite. However, it does get crowded during peak times, so try to go early if you want to avoid the lines.
Overall Rating: 9/10 – For a taste of authentic Niçoise street food, Chez Pipo is unbeatable. It’s simple, delicious, and incredibly satisfying.
5. L’Ecurie: Rustic Charm in Old Town
For a hearty, traditional meal in a rustic setting, L’Ecurie is a fantastic choice. Located in the heart of the old town, this restaurant offers a cozy, welcoming atmosphere and a menu filled with classic Niçoise and Provençal dishes.
Location: 4 Rue du Marché, 06300 Nice, France. It’s tucked away in the narrow streets of Vieux Nice, not far from the Cours Saleya market.
How to Get There: The easiest way to get there is by walking through Old Town, but if you’re coming from outside the area, take tram Line 1 to the Cathédrale – Vieille Ville stop.
Personal Experience: Dining at L’Ecurie felt like stepping into a traditional Provençal kitchen. The ambiance is warm and rustic, with wooden tables and stone walls. I started with the ratatouille, a classic Niçoise vegetable dish, followed by their daube de boeuf, a slow-cooked beef stew. The flavors were rich and comforting, and the portions were generous. The restaurant is family-run, and you can feel the love and care that goes into every dish.
Price Range: Mains range from €18 to €30, making it a moderately priced option for a full, satisfying meal.
Reservation Tip: Reservations are recommended, especially in the evening. You can call ahead or book through their website.
Overall Rating: 8/10 – L’Ecurie is a great spot for a traditional, hearty meal in a cozy, charming setting.
6. Le Séjour Café: A Hidden Gem for Modern French Cuisine
Tucked away from the bustling tourist areas, Le Séjour Café is a modern bistro that offers creative French cuisine with a Mediterranean twist.
Location: 11 Rue Grimaldi, 06000 Nice, France. It’s located just a short walk from Avenue Jean Médecin, Nice’s main shopping street.
How to Get There: It’s easy to reach by foot from most central areas, and if you’re coming from farther away, tram Line 1 stops nearby at Jean Médecin.
Personal Experience: I was blown away by the food at Le Séjour Café. The menu is seasonal, and each dish is a work of art. I started with the foie gras terrine, which was rich and decadent, followed by a main of roasted sea bass with a citrus glaze. Every bite was bursting with flavor, and the presentation was beautiful. The atmosphere is intimate and stylish, making it perfect for a romantic dinner or a special occasion.
Price Range: Starters from €15, mains around €30, and desserts around €10. It’s a bit pricier, but the quality and creativity make it worth it.
Reservation Tip: Definitely book in advance, as it’s a small, popular restaurant. You can make a reservation online or by phone.
Overall Rating: 9/10 – Le Séjour Café is a hidden gem, offering innovative French cuisine in a chic, intimate setting.
Nice is truly a foodie’s paradise, offering a wide range of dining experiences from casual street food to fine dining. Whether you’re looking for traditional Niçoise cuisine, fresh seafood, or modern, creative dishes, you’ll find something to suit your taste in this beautiful city.
