The 10 best restaurants in Nice

What is it? Michelin-starred Le Chantecler is the main restaurant of Le Negresco hotel, that most iconic of Niçois institutions on the Promenade des Anglais.

Why go? Freshness, proximity and seasonality guide chef Virginie Basselot’s hand at Le Chantecler, where – true to its name – the ingredients sing. While menu items often change depending on what’s available, expect two set menus (one of which, named ‘Les Secrets de Virginie,’ is simply listed as a ‘surprise’), or go à la carte. Dishes are plated more artfully than most other high-end restaurants, as much a delight for the eyes as the tastebuds. 

Price? High-end.

What is it? A small restaurant tucked away by the port of Nice, Les Agitateurs is a cosy but luminous space with some of the most creative cooking on the Riviera. 

Why go? In 2023, Les Agitateurs received its first Michelin star for cuisine of ‘grand finesse,’ and there’s no better way to describe the way chef Samuel Victori weaves flavours, textures, and even visuals into a serious feast for all the senses. He’s poetic about his cooking; menus are called things like ‘the beautiful escape’ and ‘eyes closed,’ and dishes are named ‘what the sea has graciously given us.’ And you should expect a touch of whimsy with every bite: think melty, sweet leeks with pot-au-feu vinaigrette, truffle and bone marrow, or a char-y tomato stuffed with veal in a contemporary take on Niçois farcies. 

Price? High-end.

Why go? Mad Men fans will love the decor, and everyone will love the food. Think menton pie (containing dandelion and anchovies), gorgonzola polenta and veal tripe. All are delicious, but the star of the show is the most perfect daube de boeuf à la Provençale (orange and beef tail).

Price? Mid-range

What is it? Blink and you’ll miss it: Nuances is the restaurant equivalent of the quiet luxury trend, steps away from Port Lympia.  

Why go? Nuances is all about just that: nuance. The menu is blind, renewed every two weeks. That means there aren’t any menus online, nor on the tables. Upon arrival, after warm greetings and explanations of how the restaurant works, you’ll be asked for any allergies or dislikes, then off the culinary team goes, working your preferences into six courses designed with simplicity and nuance in mind. 

What is it? An old laundromat converted into an open kitchen, Lavomatique is a passion project by two brothers – Hugo self-taught and in the kitchen, and Grégoire, the sommelier. 

Why go? Sharing plates, natural wines, and a location right in the heart of Nice’s labyrinthine old town make Lavomatique a perfect restaurant to visit with a small group. There aren’t many tables so booking is strongly recommended, but should you manage, there are a few unmissable menu items: the crispy panisse (Niçois chickpea fries), and sweet-smoky pork ribs with a spicy ketchup are to die for. 

Price? Mid-range.

What is it? A rooftop oasis in the heart of old town: Bocca is one of the trendiest spots in town. 

Why go? With one of the largest rosé menus in the south of France, Bocca is a summer vibe, no matter the time of year. The menu is influenced by the Balearics, with a lot of seafood –though there are plenty of options for carnivores and vegetarians – with everything designed to be shared, including two paellas full of flavour and flair. Just remember to save room for some equally exceptional desserts. 

Why go? For authentic Japanese dishes from Kanoko, the expatriate cook. Okonomiyaki, silky tofu salad, duck breast tataki with yuzu-saké sauce, Japanese fried chicken and other wonders are served with traditional sake and with natural wines carefully selected. 

Price? Budget

What is it? A friendly bistro whose name, Peixes, is pronounced ‘pêche’. Thanks to stunning success, there are now two in town: one just steps away from Opéra, the other on Rue Bonaparte. 

Why go? The decoration here – white and blue tiles – has a Mediterranean vibe. The food? Trendy and modern seafood small plates. It is a dreamy spot to meet friends for ceviche. 

What is it? A beach-side restaurant by Nice’s old town, Babel Babel is the trendy new kid in town, inspired by New York’s dining scene. With craft coffee and a menu celebrating the cultures and cuisines that border the Mediterranean, you’ll find an unpredictable melange of flavours.

Why go? If the proximity to both old town and the Promenade isn’t enough, the pretty interiors and sun-dappled terrace are the perfect antidote to days spent exploring. Coupled with an enviable natural wine menu, fresh seafood hand-picked each morning, and dishes ranging from pickled veg and crispy arayes to grilled asparagus with halloumi and honey, Babel Babel offers a perfect Mediterranean dining experience.

Why go? For salads and sandwiches ingeniously prepared with incredible local fermented, canned and preserved products. Think flavours like Jerusalem artichokes and hazelnuts, cauliflower pickles, fermented beetroot and black radish.

Price? Budget