WHERE TO EAT IN NICE

Nice has one of the most vibrant food scenes on the entire French Riviera — from tucked-away bistros in the winding alleys of the Old Town to sleek seafood restaurants perched above the Mediterranean. As someone who cooks professionally and eats out regularly, I’m genuinely selective about where I send my guests. These are the places I love and return to myself.

Here’s my curated selection organized by what you’re in the mood for — so you can find exactly what fits your craving and the moment.

🍣 Seafood & Fish Restaurants

• Le Café de Turin – A Nice institution since 1908, right on Place Garibaldi. The seafood platters and oysters are legendary — the kind of place where locals celebrate special occasions. Go for lunch to avoid the evening wait.
• Peixes – A modern, beautifully designed spot in the Old Town specializing in creative seafood dishes. One of the best newer addresses in Nice — book ahead.
• Boccaccio – An elegant brasserie on the seafront with an impressive menu spanning Italian classics, fresh fish, and Mediterranean flavors. The terrace is perfect on a warm evening.

🍝 Italian Cuisine & Pizza

• Attimi – My favorite pizza in Nice, full stop. The dough is exceptional, toppings are fresh and inventive, and the atmosphere is warm and buzzy. A little hard to find but absolutely worth it.
• Type 55 – Authentic Neapolitan wood-fired pizzas in a laid-back setting. The sourdough base sets it apart — a real pizza lover’s choice.
• Boccaccio – Beyond seafood, their pasta dishes are genuinely excellent. A reliable choice for a refined Italian dinner near the Promenade.

🥖 Traditional French Bistros & Brasseries

• Le Bistrot d’Antoine – One of the best-kept secrets in Old Nice. This tiny, unpretentious bistro serves impeccable French classics — the charcuterie board and daily specials are always a hit. Cash only, so come prepared!
• Le Comptoir du Marché – Right next to Cours Saleya, this retro bistro is a feast for the eyes as much as the palate. The decor is a charming jumble of vintage signs and antiques; the food is honest, generous, and delicious.
• La Cantine de Mémé – A lovely neighborhood restaurant with a sunny terrace and a menu that changes with the seasons. Very much a locals’ spot, which is exactly why I love it.

🌿 Vegan & Healthy Choices

• Kokogreen – The go-to spot for plant-based, gluten-free, and organic food in Nice. The menu is creative and genuinely satisfying — even my non-vegan guests love it. Great smoothie bowls too.
• Marinette – A pretty little café with a shabby-chic vibe, serving fresh, homemade dishes made with quality ingredients. Perfect for a light lunch or a leisurely brunch.

🍷 Wine Bars & Tapas

• Le Bar des Oiseaux – A genuinely special address in Old Nice: part wine bar, part creative bistro, with beautiful seasonal dishes and a thoughtful wine list. The sort of place you linger over for hours.
• Le Plongeoir – Built on the rocks above the sea, this is one of the most dramatic settings for drinks in Nice. Come at sunset, order a glass of rosé, and let the view do the rest.
• Wayne’s Bar – The classic expat and traveler hangout in Old Nice. Lively, unpretentious, with great live music on weekends. Perfect if you want to end your evening dancing.

🍳 Brunch & Breakfast Spots

• La Popotte d’Ondine – A warm, welcoming café with a homemade soul. Everything is made with care, from the pastries to the savory dishes. A go-to for a cozy weekend brunch.
• Marinette – Famous for its relaxed, beautiful brunch — fresh juices, house granola, avocado toast with a French twist. Book ahead on weekends.
• Emma’s Exclusive French Breakfast – My own creation: a curated, elegant French breakfast experience shared with guests from around the world. Homemade pastries, local cheeses, seasonal fruit, and real French hospitality — right here at home.

🥩 Meat & Grill

• L’Antica – A rustic, atmospheric restaurant with a real wood fireplace — the perfect place for grilled meats in a warm, convivial setting. The portions are generous and the wine list is excellent. A great choice for a cooler winter evening in Nice.

🍽️ Gourmet & Fine Dining

• Citrus – One of Nice’s finest tables, serving creative French cuisine built around seasonal, market-fresh ingredients. Elegant without being stuffy — a wonderful choice for a special dinner.
• La Rotonde – Dining at the Negresco is an experience in itself. La Rotonde’s magical Belle Époque carousel decor makes it unlike anywhere else in Nice. Perfect for a celebratory occasion or simply to soak in a piece of living history.