Marseille, located in the vibrant French region of Provence, attracts millions of visitors each year as a popular destination for Mediterranean travelers. Despite being France’s second most populous city and one of its oldest, Marseille maintains a modern feel with a mix of historic forts, contemporary museums, urban beaches, and charming neighborhoods filled with street art. The city also boasts impressive Neo-Byzantine church architecture and a bustling dining scene, featuring 12 Michelin-starred restaurants alongside numerous other top-notch eateries.
As the southernmost gateway to the Vallée de la Gastronomie, Marseille is a culinary treasure trove offering fresh seafood delicacies. One of its most famous dishes, bouillabaisse, a delectable fish and seafood stew, has earned a place in the broader realm of French cuisine. Visitors can sample this iconic dish at various restaurants in the Old Port area, such as the casual L’Hippocampe and the upscale Une Table, au Sud. For a leisurely afternoon, head to Chez Roger for a plate of briny oysters and a bottle of Provençal rosé while soaking up the Mediterranean ambiance.
Venture east from the Old Port to the La Plaine neighborhood for a unique culinary experience at Gérarh, where you can join a tour of the local market to appreciate fresh ingredients before enjoying a meal. Atop Pierre Puget Hill in the 7th arrondissement, chef Paul Langlère offers innovative dishes at Sépia, combining fish with unexpected sauces and seafood broths. Don’t miss the opportunity to relax at the nearby terrace bar Julis, where you can unwind with tapas and drinks while enjoying panoramic views of the city.
For a delightful seaside stroll followed by a delectable meal, visit the Corniche Kennedy, which offers stunning views of Marseille’s rocky coastline and sandy beaches. Stop by Peron for a taste of Provence with a backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea. Further along the corniche, you’ll discover the picturesque Vallon des Auffes, a charming vintage fishing port that has become a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Nestled in a picturesque setting, with its charmingly painted buildings adorning the ancient harbor, Marseille boasts a postcard-perfect scene that never fails to captivate visitors. While some may be lured by the typical tourist fare on offer in the vicinity, there’s a standout gem in the form of Chez Fonfon. This family-run establishment, a beloved institution since 1952, specializes in a delightful array of Provençal dishes, with its iconic family bouillabaisse recipe having stood the test of time for over 70 years.
For those seeking a refreshing change from the traditional French fish stew, nearby Tabi presents a delectable alternative in the form of fresh sashimi, expertly prepared by acclaimed chef Ippei Uemura. Renowned for his innovative fusion of Japanese flavors with French culinary techniques, Chef Uemura delights guests with an ever-evolving menu that has earned Tabi a place on both the Michelin Guide and Vallée de la Gastronomie lists.
Marseille’s rich tapestry of cultures and cuisines traces back to its origins as “Massalia,” founded by the Greeks around 600 BC. Over the centuries, the city has been shaped by diverse influences, from the Romans and Visigoths to its more recent French heritage. Serving as a vital hub of international trade, Marseille stands as a melting pot of cultures, with vibrant communities hailing from Africa, the Middle East, and the Mediterranean region converging with the French traditions to create a dynamic culinary landscape.
For those looking to explore Marseille’s gastronomic offerings beyond the realm of Provençal cuisine, a reservation at the Michelin-acclaimed Kin is a must. Chef Hugues Mbenda crafts a seasonal set-course menu inspired by the flavors of Africa, particularly Senegal and the Democratic Republic of Congo, offering a unique dining experience that changes every two weeks. Alternatively, guests can enjoy a fast-casual lunch concept of similar cuisine under the guise of Libala within the same space.
Dive into the Lebanese and Middle Eastern culinary delights at Mouné, where the talented chef duo of Serje Banna and Najla Chami reimagine classic dishes with modern flair. From innovative twists on traditional kibbeh to tantalizing squid ink creations, Mouné promises a feast for the senses that celebrates the region’s vibrant flavors.
At the esteemed Alivetu, meaning “olive grove” in Corsican, the Mediterranean cuisine reflects the culinary heritage of its founders, Timothée Aumont and Marie Vangelisti. Drawing inspiration from Corsican and Italian influences, the market-driven menu features a harmonious blend of seafood-centric and terrestrial dishes that showcase a symphony of flavors and textures.
As Marseille continues to welcome a diverse array of ships and cultures through its historic port, the culinary landscape of the city evolves, pushing boundaries beyond the traditional bouillabaisse interpretations. Blessed with an abundance of Provençal
