Food & Drinks

The 10 Best Lunchtime Bites in Nice

lunch-nice

Nice, a stunning city situated on the French Riviera, is famous for its pebble beaches, colorful buildings, and delicious food. When it comes to lunch, there is no shortage of incredible restaurants to choose from. Whether you're in the mood for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, Nice has got you covered. Here are the top ten lunch spots you don't want to miss when visiting this beautiful city.

1. La Merenda

La Merenda is a small, cozy restaurant located in the heart of Nice’s old town. This restaurant is known for its traditional Niçoise cuisine, which includes dishes like socca, pissaladière, and pan bagnat. The menu changes daily, depending on what’s in season, but you can always count on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant is small, so reservations are recommended.

2. Café de Turin

Café de Turin is a must-visit for seafood lovers. This elegant restaurant, located near the Promenade des Anglais, serves up some of the freshest seafood in the city. The menu includes oysters, mussels, shrimp, and more. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list, so be sure to ask the staff for recommendations.

3. Chez Pipo

Chez Pipo is a charming restaurant that specializes in socca, a traditional Niçoise pancake made from chickpea flour. This cozy spot, located in the old town, has been around since 1923 and is a favorite among locals. In addition to socca, the menu includes other Niçoise specialties like pissaladière and salade niçoise.

4. La Table Alziari

La Table Alziari is a hidden gem located in the historic Port district. This restaurant is known for its delicious Mediterranean cuisine and stunning views of the harbor. The menu includes fresh seafood, grilled meats, and a variety of vegetarian options. Be sure to try the homemade pasta with pesto, which is made with basil from the restaurant’s own garden.

5. Le Comptoir du Marché

Le Comptoir du Marché is a casual, laid-back restaurant located in the heart of the Cours Saleya market. This restaurant is the perfect spot to grab a quick bite to eat while exploring the market. The menu includes fresh salads, sandwiches, and quiches, all made with locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant also has a great selection of wine and beer.

6. Bistrot d’Antoine

This cozy bistro is located in the heart of the old town and is popular with locals and tourists alike. The menu features classic Nicoise dishes, such as socca (a savory pancake made with chickpea flour) and pan bagnat (a sandwich filled with tuna, vegetables, and olive oil).

7. Le Pain Quotidien

This international chain has a location in Nice and is a popular spot for lunch. The menu features organic bread, pastries, and salads, and the restaurant’s rustic decor adds to its charm.

8. Le Comptoir du Marche

This casual bistro is located in the Cours Saleya market and is known for its fresh, seasonal cuisine. The menu changes daily and features dishes such as ratatouille, grilled fish, and pasta.

9. La Favola

This Italian restaurant is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The menu features homemade pasta, pizza, and other Italian specialties, and the outdoor terrace is the perfect spot to enjoy lunch with a view of the sea.

10. Le Bistrot Gourmand

This elegant bistro is located in the heart of the city and is popular with locals and tourists alike. The menu features classic French dishes, such as beef tartare and foie gras, as well as Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Nice is a city that should be on every foodie’s list. From traditional Niçoise cuisine to fresh seafood and Mediterranean dishes, there is something for everyone. Be sure to add these top ten lunch spots to your itinerary to experience the best that Nice has to offer. Not only by daytime you can make your taste buds happy, but there are also great places to enjoy your dinner in Nice.