Explore the top restaurants in the French Riviera

We knew we were in for a treat the moment we arrived on the French Riviera. Yes, the sparkling sea, pastel-hued villages, and glamorous promenades were calling, but let’s be honest: one of the biggest reasons we came to explore the South of France was the food. The Riviera is where rustic Provençal flavors meet Michelin-starred finesse, where every market, café, and cliffside terrace seems designed to delight your palate. From long lunches in sun-drenched courtyards to candlelit dinners overlooking the Mediterranean, dining here isn’t just a part of the itinerary; it is the itinerary. In this curated guide, we share the restaurants that we really liked at the Côte d’Azur and hope you will enjoy them as well.

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Food Guide for the French Riviera

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Cours Saleya in Nice

📍 Adress: Cours Saleya, 06300 Nice, France

Start your Riviera food tour at Nice’s Flower Market. Waddling through the bustling Cours Saleya in Nice, we knew this wasn’t just any market. This was our first real bite of the French Riviera, and it delivered in full color and flavor. While not a restaurant in the traditional sense, the Flower Market is a feast for the senses and a perfect place to eat like a local. Between buckets of peonies and pyramids of citrus, we stopped to try the legendary socca, a warm, crispy chickpea pancake served hot from the griddle, lightly salted, and slightly smoky from the fire. Just steps away, a local vendor handed us a tiny tart topped with cacahuète caramel beurre salé, buttery caramel-drenched peanuts on a delicate pastry base, the kind of sweet-salty snack you dream about long after the crumbs are gone. With its prime location just off the Promenade des Anglais and a casual, open-air atmosphere, this market makes you feel like you belong. It’s affordable, authentic, and hands-down one of the most satisfying ways to start eating your way through the South of France.

What to Eat in France

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DØM Bakery in Nice

📍 Adress: 24 Rue Alphonse Karr, 06000 Nice, France

We hadn’t planned to stop, but the smell (and growing hunger) made the decision for us. We stumbled across DØM Bakery while waddling the quiet backstreets of Nice, just a few blocks from the busier tourist trails. We’d been saying all morning that we wanted to try a proper French bakery, something local, not too fancy, just really good. DØM delivered exactly that.

The first thing that hit us was the aroma: pure, buttery heaven. Inside, the display was stacked with golden croissants, rustic loaves, little fruit tarts, and pastries that looked too perfect to be real. Everything felt fresh like it had come out of the oven minutes ago. We grabbed a still-warm croissant (flaky, crisp, everything a croissant should be), a piece of olive bread, and couldn’t resist a madeleine or two. Then we noticed the prices, shockingly fair. Most things were under €3, which made going back for seconds feel entirely reasonable.

The vibe is incredibly relaxed, with no pressure, no crowds, just good energy and the soft hum of locals gathering their daily bread. It’s the kind of place you hope to find by accident, and we were lucky to do so. If you’re near the old town or looking for a quick, authentic breakfast or snack in Nice, DØM is that cozy little spot you’ll be glad you didn’t miss.

The Ultimate South of France Itinerary

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Especialites Nicoises in Old Town Nice

📍 Adress: Rle Saint-André, 06300 Nice, France

We met up with a friend of ours, a local who insisted we had to try the real Niçoise specialties, not in a fancy restaurant, but at one of the small spots tucked into the winding alleys of Old Town Nice. Honestly, at first glance, we probably would’ve waddled right past it. It’s low-key, a little no-frills, and definitely not trying to impress tourists, but skipping it would’ve been a mistake.

Once you’re in, the magic happens. Here, you can sample all the classics in one place: socca, hot and crispy; pissaladière, sweet caramelized onions layered over a soft crust with olives and anchovies; the famous pan bagnat, like a Niçoise salad packed into a crusty sandwich; and much more. The best part? You can start with just one or two items, then go back for more as you figure out what you love. The prices are surprisingly fair, especially considering you’re right in the heart of Vieux Nice, most dishes hover around €3–€6.

Some of the food leans a little heavy on the fried side, and if you’re not into bold, savory flavors, it might feel intense. But the taste? Totally worth it. If you see Spécialités Niçoises, stop in. It’s one of the most satisfying and honest ways to eat your way through the South of France. But be aware that a little French is necessary when ordering.

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Fenocchio Ice Cream in Nice

📍 Adress: 2 Pl. Rossetti, 06300 Nice, France

If you’re craving something sweet while exploring Old Town Nice, Fenocchio is an absolute must. You will find it in a charming little square called Place Rossetti, right beside the cathedral. It’s the perfect spot to grab a cone and enjoy it on a sunlit bench while people-watching or soaking up the old-world vibe. What sets Fenocchio apart isn’t just the quality (which is excellent) but the huge range of flavors, nearly 100, from classics like hazelnut and chocolate to wildly original options like cactus, tomato-basil, or our favorite of the day: violet. It was floral, delicate, and unlike anything we’d ever tasted. Prices are surprisingly reasonable given the location, around €3.50 for a generous scoop. Yes, it’s popular, and yes, there might be a line, but the flavor adventure and unbeatable setting make it totally worth the wait. Also, they have two locations in Nice.

Côte d’Azur: A Journey Through the French Riviera

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L’Occitan in Menton

📍 Adress: 7 rue des Marins Place aux herbes, 06500, Menton France

While waddling through the picturesque streets of Menton, we stopped at L’Occitan, drawn in by its central location and promising seafood menu. Unfortunately, it didn’t live up to expectations. The outdoor seating, while close to the water, felt cramped and not particularly comfortable, with plastic chairs on a busy walkway with little atmosphere. We were hoping for fresh, well-prepared seafood, but what we got tasted more like rushed, tourist-trap fare, uninspired, and overly simple in a way that didn’t showcase the region’s flavors. The food wasn’t awful, but it lacked the care and quality we’d found elsewhere along the Riviera, and despite the low-ish prices (around €18–€22 for mains), it still didn’t feel worth it. Service was fine, but the overall vibe felt a bit flat, like a place going through the motions. Honestly, with so many great spots in Menton, this one was a miss for us.

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Gelateria Colombo1981 in Ventimiglia, Italy

📍 Adress: Via Roma, 19, 18039 Ventimiglia IM, Italy

If you’ve made the trip down from Menton, do yourself a favor and swing by Gelateria Colombo1981 in Ventimiglia, just steps from the beach; it’s the kind of place that makes you glad you crossed into Italy. Tucked on Via Milite Ignoto, this friendly spot greeted us with genuine smiles and cool vibes. The menu’s full of classic flavors, but they also get playful—imagine trying a one-of-a-kind penguin flavor called pino pinguino, whimsical and delightfully creamy. We grabbed a scoop, found a bench by the sea, and had a moment: it was simple, magical because, well, why not stop for gelato in Italy? Prices were fair, the service upbeat, and the setting was perfect for a post-lunch melt-in-your-mouth treat. If you’ve got time (and a sweet tooth), Colombo1981 should be on your must-stop list.

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Pâtisserie LAC in Nice

📍 Adress: 12 Rue de la Préfecture, 06000 Nice, France

Back from our gelato-filled Italian detour, we landed back in Nice with one thing on our minds: pastries. Because, let’s be honest, visiting France without indulging in its patisserie culture would be nothing short of a sin. So we made our way to Pâtisserie LAC, one of the city’s most well-known and respected pastry shops, and picked up a small box of treats to take back to our Airbnb. On the balcony, with the Riviera breeze and a glass of rosé, we unwrapped our loot like it was a treasure, and in a way, it was.

The pastries are stunning, like little edible sculptures. We tried a lemon tart, a chocolate entremet, and a praline-filled choux that was almost too pretty to eat. Each bite was rich, layered, and clearly crafted with serious attention to detail. Prices are definitely on the higher end (most pastries are around €5–€7 each), but for the quality, it felt justified. The shop itself is modern and sleek, and while it’s definitely popular (expect a line at peak hours), the service was efficient and friendly. Others had told us LAC can sometimes feel a bit “too polished,” and sure, it’s not the corner boulangerie, but it delivers on flavor and finesse. For us, it was the perfect re-entry into French indulgence.

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Le Rustic in Antibes

📍 Adress: 33 Pl. nationale, 06600 Antibes, France

We dropped into Le Rustic, tucked into Place Nationale in Old Town Antibes, drawn by the promise of fresh seafood and a friendly vibe. The location’s great, right by the bustling square, perfect for people-watching. The menu delivers tasty, unfussy dishes: we had pasta with clams (d’alme), fish and chips, and fries fish and each bite was solid, reliably fresh and generous. Prices are reasonable, especially for Antibes, and starters and mains both pack good value. The food hit the mark, the seafood felt honest, and the vibe was relaxed even if the tables were a bit close together; it just adds to the charm. It’s not fine dining, but for casual, tasty seafood and a fun old-town setting, Le Rustic is absolutely worth a stop.

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Amorino Gelato in Antibes

📍 Adress: 46 Rue de la République, 06600 Antibes, France

After wrapping up a leisurely lunch in Antibes, we wandered the bustling Rue de la République and thought a good dessert was definitely in order, so we ducked into Amorino Gelato. This French-Italian chain is famous for its signature rose‑shaped gelato, made daily from all-natural ingredients and artfully served with your choice of flavors shaping each petal. We went for several scoops, and all were creamy, vibrant, and impossibly pretty. The shop, located right in the heart of town, even has a few outdoor tables for savoring your gelato while watching life in Antibes pass by. Prices are reasonable: a two‑scoop cone runs around €5–€5.50, and you can add a macaron or waffle for an extra treat. The service was polite, though a bit rushed; it was not rude, but don’t expect lengthy chats. Still, the generous portions, inventive flavors, and perfect location make it a sweet stop you’ll be glad you made. Gelato lovers and casual dessert seekers alike will find plenty to enjoy; just be prepared to wait in line during peak times.

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Maison Kayser in Nice

📍 Adress: 10 Rue Alexandre Mari, 06300 Nice, France

On our last morning in Nice, we decided to grab breakfast on the go and eat it on the beach; what could be better than sinking your toes in the sand with a fresh croissant? Waddling through the charming streets of Vieux Nice, we waddled on over to Boulangerie Maison Kayser (10 rue Alexandre Mari, just off Cours Saleya), and wow, choosing was tough. Every pastry looked tempting, but we played it safe and went classic: a beautifully golden croissant that was just a chef’s kiss, flaky on the outside, tender inside, and utterly delicious. Prices were also fair, ranging from around €1.80 to €2.50, making them perfect for breakfast by the sea. The vibe was cozy and local: early risers sipped espresso, grabbed their morning pastries, and headed off to work. We snagged our croissant, found a spot on the beach, and watched Nice come to life around us. If you’re in town, this is an easy, delicious way to start your day, bon matin indeed.

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Les Distilleries Idéales in Nice

📍 Adress: 24 Rue de la Préfecture, 06300 Nice, France

When the summer heat was really hitting, we ducked into Les Distilleries Idéales for a quick, much-needed drink and it turned out to be the friendliest pit stop of our day. Tucked into a bustling alley in Vieux-Nice, this former distillery has a relaxed outdoor terrace that’s perfect for cooling off while watching locals stroll by. The staff were extremely welcoming, cracking jokes and even throwing in a complimentary ice cube or two to brighten our afternoon. We kept it simple: iced beers and spritzes in the shade, and it felt just right – easy, cheerful, with zero fuss on a scorching day. Prices were reasonable, with happy hour deals making it even sweeter. Inside, the vibe continues with a quirky, slightly gothic décor, copper brewing tanks, and cool frescoes overhead—though we preferred staying outside where the breeze and street action made the moment. It’s no formal cocktail lounge, but for a laid-back, local-style refreshment in old-town Nice, this place hits the spot.

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Rouge Restaurant in Nice

📍 Adress: 2 Rue de Foresta, 06300 Nice, France

As we waddled down Castle Hill, soaking in the beauty of Nice, we stumbled upon a true hidden gem – Rouge. Tucked away just enough to feel like a secret, it quickly became our favorite spot in the city.

From the moment we waddled in, we were struck by the warm atmosphere and charming décor. It’s stylish without being stuffy, and there’s an effortless elegance that makes you want to linger.

But the real magic? The food and wine. Every dish we tried was carefully crafted and bursting with flavor – fresh, seasonal, and beautifully presented. The quality is undeniably high, yet the prices are more than fair; however, for some, they might be on the higher end, depending on your budget. It’s that perfect balance where you feel like you’re indulging without overpaying. Rouge takes pride in its wines, and it shows. The selection is thoughtful and exciting, and the staff is incredibly knowledgeable, always happy to recommend a perfect pairing. One of us overheard another guest raving about a bottle they discovered here and were taking notes to find it back home – a sign of a true wine lover’s spot.

Speaking of the staff, they were friendly and welcoming. There is no pretension, just genuine hospitality. Whether you’re popping in for a glass or settling in for a full meal, you’re treated like a regular. Rouge is special. It’s not just about the food or the wine – it’s the whole experience. A place you remember and one you’ll return to. In our opinion, this is the best spot in Nice. If you’re in the area, don’t miss it. Rouge is the kind of place that makes a city feel more like home.

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To wrap up our journey through the French Riviera, this region offers something unforgettable at every turn. From seaside cafés in Antibes to the local markets in Menton and, of course, gems like Rouge in Nice, the food scene here is a dream. Fresh, flavorful, and full of character. Whether you’re here for the food, the coast, or just a change of pace, there’s always something to look forward to in the South of France. It’s the kind of place that leaves you planning your next visit before you’ve even left.

Pack your bags and get your taste buds ready for a treat!

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