Top Rated Restaurants & Cafes in Marseille

Formerly the royal rope-makers' workshop, this long, vaulted room offers an elegant setting in which to dine just minutes from the Vieux-Port. Run by wine connoisseur Paul Léaunard, this gourmet restaurant has the region's finest selection of wines, some of which can be tasted by the glass: the perfect accompaniment to the excellent meat and poultry dishes on its menu.

Just like Paris's renowned Café de Flore, La Samaritaine - situated on the corner of the Vieux-Port at the lower end of Rue de la République - has managed to hold onto its old-fashioned charm. And it's easy to see why, with its 1930s-style décor, deliciously light, traditional cuisine, piano bar and fabulous terrace looking out over the boats moored in the harbor making it the perfect rendezvous, no matter what time of day. The bar closes at 8:30 pm generally, but is open until midnight during the summer months.

La Chimère Café is a beautiful dining space that boasts an art-inclined interior decor. Its opulent chandeliers, cherubs and plush furnishing are inspired by Baroque, Art Deco and Belle Époque architecture. To match the regal aura are 70 inventive cocktails and drinks like Single Malt, Bourbon and Irish Whiskey. Revoke the prohibition era vibe with cigars and spirits while savoring their bar fare. On the seasonal menu are Petite Lobster Tail, Cod Croquettes, Octopus a la Gallega, and dessert Hot Cold Citrus Sabayon Seven at Chambord.

La Bataclan is a chic restaurant and lounge housed in a historic oil mill, complete with Roman arches and a trendy atmosphere. The contemporary space is sleek and stylish, featuring a canopied outdoor terrace for casual-chic lunches and a happening lower level for clubbing and post-work drinks with tapas. The menu is influenced by Spanish culture and inspired by Mediterranean cuisine with a modern twist. A prix-fixe menu is available every lunch; that combined with its central location makes this ideal for a business lunch. Post sunset things heat up with local DJs spinning the latest in techno, talented bartenders slinging cocktails with ease, and the cities young and hip coming out to play.

L'Epuisette is ideally located and enjoys an excellent reputation in Marseille. It is situated so close to the edge of the Vallon des Auffes seawall that it's nearly in the water. Consistently fresh ingredients, unpretentious recipes, perfect seafood dishes, and ingeniously prepared desserts, which you'll find as dazzling as the brilliant reflections of the 'Big Blue.' A prestigious establishment with a highly professional staff.

Peron is a gourmet restaurant in Marseille with an absolutely breathtaking view of the Mediterranean Sea. Once you’re at the restaurant, whether indoors or on the terrace, you’ll notice the lack of road noise and honking horns –a place where tranquility is total. The restaurant serves many fish specialties and of course the famous Marseille specialty, La Bouillabaisse, which is one of the restaurant’s key dishes. Due to the amazing view and the gourmet standards, Peron’s prices are proportionate. Reservations are strongly recommended.