The best restaurants in Marseille

1. The Little Nice Passedat

Perched on a rocky promontory overlooking the Mediterranean, The Little Nice Passedat is a symbol of culinary excellence. Founded in 1917 by Germain Passédat, the establishment has evolved under the direction of Chef Gérald Passédat, earning three Michelin stars. The restaurant offers panoramic sea views, providing a serene setting for a refined dining experience. Chef Passédat's menu is a tribute to his passion for the sea, featuring over 65 varieties of fish from local waters. Signature dishes include sea bream carpaccio with caviar and bottarga, sea anemone fritters with seaweed sauce, and sea bass in herb broth with crushed tomatoes. The meticulous preparation and careful presentation of each dish reflect the chef's commitment to showcasing the natural flavors of the Mediterranean.

2. At Michel's

For an authentic tasting of bouillabaisse, the emblematic dish of Marseille, At Michel's establishes itself as a must-visit address. Founded in 1946 near Catalans Beach, this family-run restaurant has built a solid reputation for serving one of the best bouillabaisse in town. This dish is enjoyed in two courses: a rich and flavorful fish soup accompanied by croutons, aioli, and rouille, followed by a platter of fish and seafood cooked in the broth. The restaurant's commitment to quality and tradition guarantees a memorable experience. Advance reservations are recommended due to its popularity.

3. The Sardine Box

A true paradise for seafood lovers, The Sardine Box offers a friendly and unpretentious atmosphere. Owner Fabien Rugi has created a nautical decor adorned with ropes, nets, and buoys, faithful to the maritime spirit of the place. The menu changes daily depending on the day's catch and features dishes such as fresh sea urchin, razor clams with lemon and coriander, grilled red mullet, or fried squid. Freshness and simplicity are the key words here, allowing the natural flavors to fully express themselves.

4. The Haberdashery

Located in the heart of Marseille, The Haberdashery is a major player in the city's gastronomic renaissance. British chef Harry Cummins, who has worked at prestigious establishments such as Frenchie and Celler de Can Roca, offers seasonal cuisine that showcases Provençal produce. The creative and contemporary dishes appeal to both locals and tourists. The homemade pasta is particularly popular, a testament to the chef's artisanal expertise. The fixed-price lunch menus are suitable for vegetarians and offer excellent value. In the evening, the five-course tasting menu reveals the culinary philosophy of the place. Note: La Mercerie is open on Sundays, a rarity in Marseille.

5. Sepia

Perched on a hill in the heart of Marseille's oldest public garden, Sepia The hotel perfectly combines gastronomy and beautiful scenery. Chef Paul Langlère, who trained with greats like Alain Ducasse, transformed a former snack bar into a Michelin-rated restaurant. The menu changes with the seasons, with dishes like pig's trotters, fleur de sel chocolate mousse, and homemade calamarata with citrus and mint. Next door, Bar Julis offers cocktails and tapas with breathtaking panoramic views of Marseille from the terrace.

6. Tuba

For an experience that fully embodies the coastal soul of Marseille, Tuba is an unrivaled choice. Housed in a former diving center overlooking the ocean in Les Goudes, this sun-drenched restaurant-hotel oozes retro charm. Guests can even reach it by water taxi from the Old Port, for a complete immersion in the maritime atmosphere. The bar, run by Kevin Sabtier (Mama Shelter), offers original cocktails like the "Grand Bleu de Marie," a twist on the Bloody Mary made with white wine and cockles. Chef Antoine Teychené's cuisine is simple, seasonal, and flavorful, with dishes such as the wood-grilled fish of the day or the harissa tagine with panisse, a Marseille specialty.

7. Shuttle Oven

No culinary trip to Marseille would be complete without tasting the city's iconic navettes. These boat-shaped biscuits, flavored with orange blossom, are handmade in Shuttle Oven Since 1781. Located on Rue Sainte, this historic bakery still uses its 18th-century oven, blessed each year by the Archbishop of Marseille on Candlemas. The intact tradition and unique flavor of the navettes make them a must-try for all visitors.

8. The Beef Rib

For meat lovers, The Rib of Beef is a true benchmark address. Renowned as the best place in Marseille to enjoy beautiful cuts of grilled meat, the establishment offers specialties such as veal kidney, tartare, beef fillet, and the famous prime rib, served with various homemade sauces. The meats are slowly cooked over a wood fire for optimal tenderness. The wine list is equally impressive, with more than 1,300 wines from around the world. Housed in a renovated former warehouse, the restaurant offers a warm and intimate atmosphere, ideal for a dinner with friends and family.