The late Fonfon would have been proud to see that his restaurant's excellent reputation lives on. Still a family-run affair, one of the city's best places for seafood serves a mean bouillabaisse (cooked to perfection using ingredients fished from the sea close by), whilst other dishes including poisson à l'argile (clay-baked fish), and poisson grillé (grilled fish) should easily satisfy the most demanding of palates. Huge bay windows ensure a fabulous sea view while you dine. Très magnifique!
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.
Depending on the time of day and year, this café has a really nice feature: customers can come relax near the large swimming pool. The Sports Beach Café is also a place to have lunch or dinner, or even enjoy a drink at the bar in the evening. The magnificent terrace and the location on the seafront give the Sports Beach Cafe a nice pleasant atmosphere. In the winter, the wood-decorated interior makes it a warm and cozy place to hang out. Every Tuesday is salsa night and Thursday is Latina Obsessions with Latin rhythms.
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.
This family-run establishment is based a few kilometers away from Aix-en-Provence on the road to Puyricard, and has been in business for about 30 years. There is an enchanting range of chocolates, with constantly changing designs and colors. The reputation of this house is worldwide and this alone makes it a good reason to enjoy sampling their wares when in the town center. A simple must for chocoholics!
Mickael Feval is a trusted name in the dining circles of the city. Operated by Chef Mickael Feval, the eponymous restaurant serves gourmet dishes with a contemporary twist. Be it the Le Magret de Canard or the Foie Gras, each dish bears the characteristic trademark of the masterful chef. There is a good selection of desserts as well that will leave you craving for more. The ambiance is super stylish and chic to match the creative cuisine.
Mana Espresso was born out of the love of coffee. The owners first worked in restaurants and from there they decided to do something of their own. Coffee was the main inspiring factor behind opening this cafe. Coffee is an obsession for many people and the owners of Mana Espresso decided to keep this obsession alive. Apart from some of the world famous coffees they also offer burgers, sandwich and other fast food items. The interiors are beautifully decorated using scented candles, hanging lights and bright colors. It is a nice place to bring you loved ones and spend some cozy time here.
Le Grain de Sable is a restaurant where everything is based on organic products and fair trade. Customers very much respect organic ethics and come to share those values. Vegetarian dishes are on the menu, like the delicious tomato-basil pie. Other organic specialties include beer, tapas, fair trade teas and many other choices. There are various original dishes which change regularly. For lively evenings, debates are organized where ideas zoom around the room and the mood is always good. Le Grain de Sable adapts to current trends and offers tasty organic food.
Le P'tit Bout is an intimate restaurant in Aix-en-Provence's Mirabeau district. Nestled in the archways of an 18th-century cellar, take the stairway down rue Duperrier in this charming eatery replete with rustic fireplaces and lamps. The menu features Mediterranean and French cuisine prepared from seasonal and locavore ingredients. Savor specialties like Carpaccio of Duck, and seafood like Mikados Prawns and Crispy Tuna with Angel Hair. The ambiance is great for a romantic meal.
Le Patio is the ideal dining spot in the city where one can sample some great selections of Mediterranean cuisine while being rewarded with the warm sunshine through the skylight in its outdoor patio. Try the Filets de rougets and Foie Gras that have received good reviews for their rich flavor and texture. Do not forget to try the splendid wines as well. The atmosphere ensures that diners have a memorable time.