Nice is a culinary delight. Not just at the market, not just socca in the old town, but in restaurants that uniquely showcase the Côte d'Azur's offerings. From a table with a view of the Mediterranean to a bistro you may blink and miss. Here are twelve restaurants in Nice I would personally choose, from lunch to late at night.
Restaurants in Nice: Les Bains du Castel for the View
Les Bains du Castel is perfect for a special evening. You sit with a sea view, the seafood is excellent, and the grilled langoustines are a dish that makes you pause your conversation. Bring a well-stuffed wallet, as this is the priciest option on the list. But for that view and such a meal, it's well justified.
Café des Musiciens: Great Food, Good Prices
Café des Musiciens contrasts Les Bains du Castel: a few tables outside, friendly prices, and a déjeuner menu for 26 euros that more than justifies its cost. We had the oeufs mayonnaise, classic and just right, as if I were in Paris. Café des Musiciens is perfect for those who don't want to splurge but still want a delightful meal.
Le Bistrot des Serruriers: On the Edge of the Old Town, Away from the Crowds
Le Bistrot des Serruriers sits on the perimeter of the old town, just outside the main tourist throngs. It's part of Hotel du Couvent, a 5-star establishment, but the bistro feels accessible and relaxed. Open from lunch to dinner. It's a destination for those who want the old town without the hustle and bustle.
Tina Trattoria: Homemade Pasta in a Bustling Italian Setting
Tina Trattoria is all things Italian: vibrant and delicious. The homemade pasta is the main attraction, the atmosphere is lively, and it's busy in a way that feels just right. Note: closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Le Patio: Mediterranean Ambience with Wall Frescoes
Le Patio is part of Hotel La Pérouse (which is also worth considering if you're in need of a hotel) and boasts a beautiful ambience with sea views (the hotel, that is). Wall frescoes, a Mediterranean vibe, a terrace that just clicks. For those who value atmosphere as much as the food.
Le Plongeoir: Lunch on a Rock Above the Sea
Le Plongeoir (the diving board) is one of the most remarkable places to dine on the Côte d'Azur. The restaurant sits literally on a rock above the water, six meters up, on the edge of Nice. Its history dates back to the Belle Époque, when dining here was already a treat with Mediterranean views. That atmosphere lingers. An excellent choice for both lunch and dinner, it's a unique spot like no other.
Restaurant JAN: The Most Culinary Address on This List
Restaurant JAN in Nice's old port is in a league of its own compared to the rest of this article. With only twenty covers, a Michelin star, and a kitchen that marries French and South African influences using exclusively local and seasonal ingredients from the Côte d'Azur. The chef grew up on a farm in South Africa and brings that background to Nice. Dishes like melktert and bobotie in a European context, refined and distinctive. High on my list for anyone seeking a special culinary evening, reservations are a must.
Le Petit Beefbar: Steak Frites Done Right
Le Petit Beefbar looks every bit the classic French brasserie and carries itself just the same. I had the steak frites with beurre maître d'hôtel, just as it should be. The restaurant also has locations in Paris and Monaco, but in Nice, it feels local enough not to come off as a chain. Charming, reliable, and good.
Café de Turin: Famous for Oysters, and Rightly So
Café de Turin isn't trendy and doesn't aim to be. It's the address for those looking for the best seafood in Nice, especially the oysters the café has been known for over decades. Don’t come for the decor. Come for what's served on the table.
La Langouste: Truffle Risotto on a Hidden Patio
La Langouste features an outdoor patio that feels like an oasis, an elegant yet relaxed vibe, and a kitchen that demands to be taken seriously. I had the truffle risotto, highly recommended. Note: in the summer, it can be warm outside.
Hotel Amour: Greek, Fresh, and Accessible
The restaurant at Hotel Amour in Nice serves Greek cuisine, taverna-inspired, in a setting that feels more Parisian than Niçois. I covered the hotel and beach club extensively in my article about Hotel Amour Nice. For those already staying or wishing to sample the vibe without sleeping there.
Café Marché: Brunch Until Three
Café Marché is the brunch spot on this list. Eggs Benedict, a good cup of coffee, a terrace. Note: the kitchen closes at 3 PM, so it's not a place for a late lunch. Come early.
Twelve Restaurants in Nice on the Côte d'Azur: For Every Time of Day
Les Bains du Castel for a special evening with a sea view. Café des Musiciens for an affordable lunch with class. Le Bistrot des Serruriers if you want to avoid the crowds. Tina Trattoria for homemade pasta in a bustling setting. Le Patio for Mediterranean ambiance. From dining on a rock above the sea at Le Plongeoir to a Michelin star at Restaurant JAN. Le Petit Beefbar for the best steak frites in Nice. Café de Turin for oysters without fuss. La Langouste for an elegant evening on a hidden patio. Hotel Amour for Greek food in a Parisian atmosphere. And Café Marché for kicking off the day right. Nice is a culinary hub, no surprises once you discover where to go. Prices are indicative and may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions About Restaurants in Nice
What are the best restaurants in Nice for fish and seafood?
Le Plongeoir for grilled langoustines on a rock six meters above the sea, and Café de Turin for the city's best oysters in a laid-back setting. Both are different but excellent choices.
Is there a good brunch spot in Nice?
Café Marché is the go-to for brunch. Open until 3 PM, so don't arrive too late. Eggs Benedict and a great terrace are reasons to visit.