My favorite restaurants in Nice
It’s easy to be fooled—and disappointed—by restaurants in Nice. Many cater to tourists, and feature overpriced, generic dishes and unenthusiastic staff. However, there are a few gems tucked away in the less-bustling streets and squares that highlight affordable quality. Many thanks to Rosa Jackson, Nice’s own food guru, for introducing me to many of my favorites.
Breakfast
Le Pain A Table After strolling through the bustling Cours Salaya market, stop here for a traditional French breakfast of a pastry, orange juice and coffee. The shared wooden tables and bright, airy space are a convivial start to a beautiful day on the French Riviera. 3 Rue Louis Gassi
Lunch
Bistrot d’Antoine: During the height of summer, reservations are required for the two evening seatings—it’s much easier to score a table at lunch. While main courses are delicious, straightforward interpretations of meat dishes, the real treat here is the entrees and desserts. Creative and full of flavor, the dishes are prepared beautifully with an emphasis on fresh ingredients and interesting flavor combinations. Grab a table at the back to sneak a peek at the going-ons in the open kitchen. 27 Rue de la Préfecture
Flaveur: A bit more hoity-toity than the hustle and bustle of Old Nice, Flaveur is a chic culinary option. The modern décor, attentive waiters and gastronomic attention to detail are a marked change from the casual street food that lines the streets of Old Nice. While the main courses are interesting, the dessert here is a can’t miss. 25 rue Gubernatis
Afternoon snack
Emilie’s Cookies: If you’re obsessed with Nutella as I am, Emilie’s is your own personal heaven. There are baked goods and drinks of all types, chock full of Nutella: brownies, muffins, cookies, espresso, milkshakes. Even if you’re not a Nutella fan, you can indulge your sweet tooth with chocolate chip cookies, white chocolate and raspberry muffins, and peanut-butter brownies. Looking for something less sucree? Try a bagel sandwich or salad for lunch, along with a fresh-squeezed juice or smoothie. Other perks of Emilies include free Wifi, eclectic music, magazines and books to share, and friendly albeit tattooed service. 1 Rue de la Préfecture
Dinner
La Rossettisserie Word of warning: this is a bad choice for vegetarians. However, if you’re a meat lover, you can’t go wrong with the emphasis on quality and simplicity at La Rossettesserie. As is the French tradition, meat is best served rare. Portions are generous, and the service is great. 8 Rue Mascoïnat
La Merenda: While this tiny restaurant rarely attracts a second glance from passerby, locals know it’s the heart of Nicoise cusine. Famous chef Dominique le Stanc turned his back on Chantecler at Hotel Negresco to focus on the classics. The day’s offerings of traditional Nicoise and Provencal fare are presented on chalkboards by a lone waiter and prepared in the open kitchen. 4 Rue de la Terrasse
Casa Mia: Because of its proximity to Italy (and its former status as an Italian region), Nice boasts some amazing Italian food. My favorite is Casa Mia: owned by an exhuberant Italian couple and tucked away on a side street, the food is a much better quality for a much fairer price than what you’ll find at the many Italian restaurants in Old Nice. The white truffle linguine is ridiculously rich, but worth every calorie. It’s also worth indulging in the delectable chocolat fondant. 4 Rue Pontin
Have I missed any of your favorites in Nice? I always love recommendations!
