9 Unmissable Food Places in Nice
Nice brings together the best of the Riviera: fresh seafood, Italian flavors, and casual spots where the food speaks for itself. From beachside restaurants to hidden local favorites, these are the places that stand out for all the right reasons.
Blue Beach
Set right on the Promenade des Anglais, Blue Beach serves grilled fish, seafood pasta, and Niçoise favorites on a private stretch of sand. It’s one of the few beach restaurants open year-round. Slightly pricier than inland spots, but the seaside setting evens it out.
Rouge
Just off Place Garibaldi, Rouge is a small wine bar with a Michelin nod. The wine list leans heavily on natural French producers. The kitchen turns out thoughtful plates like beef tataki and local charcuterie. Tables are limited, and evenings fill up fast.
Le Terre del Sud
On Rue Cassini, not far from the Port, Le Terre del Sud delivers honest Italian cooking without fuss. The octopus carpaccio is one of their signature dishes, but other simple plates like seafood linguine also get strong reviews. Walk-ins only, but turnover is fast.
Brasserie de Castillon
At the edge of the Port of Nice, Brasserie de Castillon mixes easygoing vibes with serious local beer. The in-house brews often feature seasonal twists – citrus in summer, richer malts in winter. Snack platters with cheese and charcuterie are generous and good value for the area.
Le Local
Right on Rue Rusca in the Port area, Le Local turns out Italian plates that punch above their casual setting. Popular dishes include homemade pastas like baccalà tagliatelle and mussels with paccheri. It’s small and books out early on weekends.
FishBar 2.0
On 17 rue Benoît Bunico in Old Nice, FishBar focuses on ultra-fresh seafood served tapas-style. Oysters, ceviche, and tartares headline the menu, paired with good white wines by the glass. Expect a no-frills setup with a local feel.
La Nice Étoilée
Hidden along Rue de l’Hôtel des Postes, La Nice Étoilée brings a sharp French-Asian fusion to the center of Nice. Dishes change often, but examples include duck breast with sesame glaze or miso seabass. It’s still a local secret, but not for long.
Casa Elli
Near Place Wilson, Casa Elli offers a Milanese-leaning Italian menu inside a bright, modern space. The veal Milanese is a standout, and the bucatini dishes are generously portioned. Service is warm and easygoing, a good pick if you’re staying near Avenue Jean Médecin.
Le Plongeoir
Perched above the sea near the Port, Le Plongeoir is one of Nice’s most iconic dining spots. Built on an old diving platform, the restaurant serves Mediterranean seafood and house cocktails with open views of the Baie des Anges. Pricey, but there’s no real alternative for the setting.