Welcome to the sun-kissed streets of Nice, where the aroma of freshly baked baguettes mingles with the salty sea breeze, creating an ambiance that is as lovely as the cuisine itself.
Nestled along the stunning French Riviera, Nice is not just a visual feast of turquoise waters and pastel-hued buildings – it’s a heaven for food lovers. In this city, culinary artistry is a way of life, where every meal is a celebration of flavors and every restaurant tells a story.
Whether it’s indulging in the rich, olive oil-laden specialties of the region, savoring the exquisiteness of a Michelin-starred creation, or getting lost in the vibrant hues and flavors of a local market, Nice’s culinary landscape is wonderful when it comes to taste and tradition.
In this guide, you will find the best restaurants in Nice, where each establishment is not just a place to eat, but a destination in itself.
Planning a trip to the South of France? Then make sure to follow my Instagram and join my Facebook group for the best tips, places, and hotels on the French Riviera. You can also get a custom itinerary made by me here or check out my travel guides for Nice, Monaco, Cannes, Antibes and Saint-Tropez.
Best Restaurants in Nice
You might also enjoy reading about the best restaurants in Monaco, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez.
1- Le Chantecler
Le Chantecler is a renowned Michelin-starred restaurant located in the luxury hotel Le Negresco. It’s known for its high-quality cooking and elegant ambiance.
It is a top choice for gourmet enthusiasts seeking a blend of classic and contemporary French cuisine, crafted by highly skilled chefs. Its elegant decor, coupled with an impressive wine list, makes it a premier fine dining destination.
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2- Hotel Amour
The restaurants inside Hotel Amour is another one of my favorites. Based on typical offerings in the region, it possibly provides a blend of French and Mediterranean cuisine, reflecting the local flavors and culinary traditions of the French Riviera and Greece.
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3- Yose
I absolutely love Yose, a delightful Peruvian eatery located near the port area in Nice. This cozy establishment is renowned for its authentic Peruvian cuisine, offering a taste of Peru’s rich culinary traditions. T
The interior decor, adorned with Peruvian art, creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. Their menu highlights include fresh ceviches and flavorful grilled meats, alongside a selection of Peruvian cocktails like the Pisco Sour.
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4- Bocca Mar
Bocca Mar is a new restaurant located right on the beach at Promenade des Anglais. It offers a variety of menu options reflecting a Mediterranean feel, in a setting that combines a stylish coastal aesthetic with a relaxed, beachside atmosphere.
Bocca Mar is praised for its beautiful location on the beach, providing stunning views, and the best way or order here is by getting a few small plates to share. Everything is so fresh and delicious!
5- La Favola
“La Favola” is a renowned Italian restaurant nestled in the picturesque Cours Saleya in Nice. The ambiance at La Favola combines rustic Italian charm with a touch of modern elegance, creating a welcoming atmosphere.
The menu is a tribute to traditional Italian flavors, featuring an array of handcrafted pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and exquisite meat and seafood dishes, all made with the freshest ingredients.
As La Favola does not accept reservations, it is advisable to arrive early to secure a table, especially during peak dining hours.
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6- Le Plongeoir
Le Plongeoir is a unique and visually striking restaurant in Nice, situated on a rocky outcrop above the Mediterranean Sea. This restaurant is renowned for its exceptional setting and panoramic sea views.
I like to say that Le Plongeoir is not about not just about a meal, but an experience, with its breathtaking views and sophisticated, Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. It’s perfect for those seeking a memorable dining experience in a one-of-a-kind location.
7- JAN
JAN is a Michelin-starred restaurant in Nice, recognized for its fusion of South African and French cuisine. It’s a distinctive dining spot that showcases the culinary creativity of chef Jan-Hendrik van der Westhuizen.
The restaurant is a must-visit for those looking to experience a blend of French elegance and South African flair. The menu is known for its innovative dishes and the chef’s ability to artfully combine different culinary traditions.
8- Babel Babel
Babel Babel is a mostly Mediterranean restaurant by the beach with amazing views and delicious, fresh, and unique dishes.
Their seafood is locally sourced and they also have a great selection of wines and cocktails.
9- La Merenda
La Merenda in Nice is a celebrated, intimate restaurant known for its authentic Niçoise cuisine. It’s a small, cozy place with a vintage charm, offering a menu of traditional regional dishes. The restaurant is famously managed by Dominique Le Stanc, a former two-star Michelin chef from the Negresco.
The restaurant is known for its simple yet delicious local dishes (they serve one of the best socca, a type of pancake made of chickpea flour), served in a unique and unpretentious atmosphere. It’s a great spot for those seeking a genuine taste of traditional Nice cuisine. The restaurant’s limited seating adds to its exclusivity and old-fashioned appeal.
10- Chez Acchiardo
What is it? Chez Acchiardo is a well-established family-run restaurant in Nice’s Old Town, offering local Niçoise and French cuisine. It’s known for its traditional dishes and has been run by the same family for generations.
It’s also an ideal place for those looking to experience the regional cuisine of Nice, with a variety of dishes including beef daube, ravioli, and salade Niçoise. The intimate setting and familial ambiance are lovely.
11- Cafe de Turin
Cafe de Turin, located at Place Garibaldi in Nice, this restaurant is a favorite for seafood lovers, offering an extensive selection of fresh oysters, shellfish, and other seafood delights.
It’s renowned for its quality and the authentic experience it provides. The lively and unpretentious atmosphere makes it a great spot for both casual and serious seafood enthusiasts.
12- Le Canon
Le Canon is a notable restaurant in Nice that offers wonderful French and European cuisine, with a focus on simple yet precise dishes. The restaurant is recognized for its creative and seasonal menu, offering items like gazpacho with tomato and white peach, and mullet with ratatouille.
13- La Pêche à la Vigne
La Pêche à la Vigne is a cozy and charming restaurant.
This restaurant is ideal for wine enthusiasts and food lovers looking for a unique dining experience. The emphasis on natural wines means you can expect to find some exceptional and perhaps lesser-known wines here.
The food menu, while complemented by the wines, stands on its own for its quality and the use of fresh, local ingredients. The setting is intimate and welcoming, making it a great choice for a relaxed evening out.
14- Le Bistrot d’Antoine
Le Bistrot d’Antoine is an ideal destination for those seeking to experience classic French bistro cuisine in a warm and inviting setting.
The restaurant has a reputation for serving high-quality dishes, made from fresh and locally sourced ingredients.
15- Maïdo
Maïdo is an outstanding restaurant offering Japanese and Asian cuisine. It’s known for its unique approach to food, providing a blend of traditional Japanese dishes with a modern twist.
16- La Part des Anges
La Part des Anges is a unique and highly regarded wine bar and restaurant located on rue Gubernatis in Nice. Specializing in French and European cuisine, it’s known for its extensive selection of natural and organic wines. The venue offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere, perfect for wine enthusiasts and diners looking for a relaxed experience.
17- Comptoir du Marché
Comptoir du Marché is a highly regarded French and Mediterranean restaurant located at 8 rue du Marche in Nice. It has earned recognition in the MICHELIN Guide, indicating its exceptional quality.
This restaurant is a favorite among locals and tourists for its authentic and high-quality dishes. Its location in the bustling historic center of Nice adds to its appeal, making it a perfect spot for an immersive dining experience.
18- Mamma Mia Saleya
Mamma Mia Saleya is an Italian restaurant located in Nice, offering a range of Italian dishes. The restaurant is known for its lively atmosphere and is situated in the Cours Saleya market, a busy area, making it a great spot for people-watching. I absolutely love their pizzas!
19- Carmela
Carmela is an Italian restaurant known for its authentic cuisine. The restaurant specializes in a variety of Italian dishes ranging from classic pasta and risotto to seafood and meat dishes.
20- La Carpe Koï
If you love amazing but unpretentious sushi, you have to try La Carpe Koi.
The restaurant is renowned for its excellent sushi and pho, along with other Asian dishes. The cozy and intimate setting enhances the dining experience, making it perfect for those who enjoy authentic Japanese flavors. The chef/owner’s personal touch and interaction with guests add to its charm.
21- Lou Pistou
Known for its relaxed and homely atmosphere, Lou Pistou is praised for its fresh produce and specialties of the area. It’s a great spot to enjoy authentic Niçoise dishes in an intimate setting. The menu changes to ensure the use of fresh ingredients, with standout dishes like artichoke salad, pissaladiere, and boeuf en daube.
22- Le Safari
This restaurant is a favorite among both locals and tourists for its vibrant atmosphere and high-quality dishes. Le Safari offers a wide range of seafood options, along with classic French and Niçoise specialties, making it an ideal spot for those who want to experience the true flavors of Nice.
Michelin-starred restaurants in Nice
One of the most celebrated Michelin-starred restaurants in Nice is “Le Chantecler,” located in the luxurious Hotel Negresco. This restaurant is famous for its refined French cuisine, elegant decor, and an impressive wine cellar. The menu, crafted by skilled chefs, features the finest local ingredients, turning each dish into a masterpiece of taste and presentation.
Another gem is “Jan,” a boutique restaurant that offers a fusion of French and South African cuisine. Its intimate setting and creative menu have garnered critical acclaim, earning it a Michelin star for its unique culinary approach and exquisite flavors.
“Flaveur,” run by two brothers, stands out for its focus on aromatic complexity and the use of high-quality, local produce. Their dishes are a blend of traditional French techniques and modern culinary innovation, offering a unique dining experience that tantalizes the senses.
“L’Aromate,” another Michelin-starred restaurant, is known for its contemporary approach to French cuisine. The chef’s inventive dishes, often inspired by his travels, are a feast for both the eyes and the palate, making every meal an unforgettable experience.
Conclusion: Best restaurants in Nice
That’s a wrap! As you can now tell, Nice’s culinary landscape is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, offering a rich diversity that caters to every palate.
From the quaint bistros in Old Town to the luxurious Michelin-starred establishments, each restaurant in this picturesque city is a testament to the region’s love for gastronomy.
Oh! And if you are visiting the South of France soon, check out my travel guides, follow my Instagram and join my Facebook group for more hidden gems and travel tips. Happy travels!
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