Are you heading for the French Riviera this summer? I got you covered boo. It’s a veritable paradise for foodies, with a dining scene that rivals the beauty of its azure coastline – I know, a bold statement, but trust me on this one.
On top of being bold, I’m being benevolent and gracious because guess what? I linked up the menus for the lazy-ass foodies like me out there.
You know who you are; thank me later.
Le Plongeoir
Perched on a rock outcropping in the Mediterranean, Le Plongeoir is not your average restaurant: it’s an experience. Imagine dining atop a diving board structure, suspended over sea. The waves crash below, and the views are nothing short of spectacular.
The menu is a delightful blend of Mediterranean flavors, with fresh seafood taking center stage. Don’t miss the octopus carpaccio; it’s as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate.
Le Plongeoir
Address: 60 Bd Franck Pilatte, 06300 Nice
Phone number: +33 4 93 26 53 02
Opening hours: Everyday from noon until 10:30 p.m.
Book here
Take a look at the menu here
Les Bains du Castel
If the idea of sipping a chilled rosé with your toes in the sand sounds like heaven (if it doesn’t I will pay for appointment with a psychologist), then Les Bains de Castel is your paradise.Nestled on the famous Castel Beach, this restaurant offers a perfect blend of casual elegance.
The seafood platter, brimming with oysters, prawns, and lobster, is a must-try.
The laid-back, yet chic, atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for a leisurely lunch or a romantic dinner as the sun sets over the Mediterranean. It’s a beach club experience with a gourmet twist. I’m pretty sure that at this point in the article, your only thought is “God oh God how am I going to pick a restaurant out of this list!?” They call me the dream-maker, you’re welcome hun.
I’m sorry about your bikini body though.
Les Bains du Castel
Address: 8 Quai des États-Unis, 06300 Nice
Phone number: +33 4 93 85 22 66
Opening hours: Everyday from noon until 3 p.m. and from 7 p.m. until 11:30 p.m.
Book here
Check out the menu here
Le Bar aux Oiseaux
Enough instagram-worthy-my-ass places, let’s move on to authentic stuff. Tucked away in the Old Town, Le Bar aux Oiseaux is a charming bistro that promises an authentic Niçoise dining experience. The rustic decor, with its warm wooden furnishings and cozy ambiance, sets the stage for a memorable meal.
The menu is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Nice, featuring classics like pissaladière and daube de boeuf. The friendly staff and the lively atmosphere make you feel like you’ve been invited to a local’s home for dinner.
It’s intimate, it’s authentic, and it’s absolutely delightful.
Le Bar aux Oiseaux
Address: 5 Rue Saint-Vincent, 06300 Nice
Phone number: +33 4 93 80 27 33
Opening hours: Tuesdays-Saturdays, from Noon-1:30 pm and 7-9:30 p.m.
To book and to have a look at the menu, it’s the same deal as for Le Bar aux Oiseaux. They’re
not located in Old Town for nothing.
Le Bistrot d’Antoine
Le Bistrot d’Antoine is the kind of place where you’ll want to become a regular. Located in th heart of the Old Town, this beloved bistro is known for its warm hospitality and delicious food. The menu changes with the seasons, ensuring that only the freshest ingredients make it to your plate. The best dishes include the duck confit and the tarte tatin.
The unpretentious yet charming ambiance makes it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely meal that captures the essence of French bistro dining.
Le Bistrot d’Antoine
Address: 27 Rue de la Préfecture, 06300 Nice
Phone number:+33 4 93 85 29 57
Opening hours: Tuesdays-Saturdays, from Noon-1:30 p.m. and 7-9:45 p.m.
Call them to book, they’re old school. Same goes for the menu, you’ll have to find out in real life, like it’s the 90s baby.
Le Panier
Nestled in the bustling streets of Nice’s Old Town, Le Panier is a culinary treasure that offers a vibrant and eclectic dining experience. This charming eatery, with its lively atmosphere, feels like a celebration of Mediterranean culture.
The menu is a delightful fusion of local and international flavors, showcasing the best of seasonal ingredients. From the aromatic truffle risotto to the succulent lamb tajine, each dish is a work of art that tantalizes the senses.
Le Panier
Address: 5 Rue Barillerie, 06300 Nice
Phone number: +33 4 89 97 14 37
Opening hours: Tuesdays-Saturdays, from noon-1:30 p.m, and 7-9.:45 p.m.
Book here
Check out the menu here
It’s already the end of the article folks, please don’t shed a tear. From dining atop the sea at Le Plongeoir to the cozy charm of Le Bistrot d’Antoine, each restaurant on this list offers a unique experience that goes beyond the plate. So, next time you find yourself in this coastal paradise, make sure to visit these top spots.
Your taste buds will thank you, and you’ll have a host of delicious memories to savor long after your trip is over.
Bon appétit!
Charlotte Laborie grew up in England, Belgium and Switzerland. Charlotte then moved to Paris and graduated from Sciences Po Paris. She is still based in Paris, where she works in marketing.
