Contrary to the myth propagated by the author Pagnol, this isn't the bar where that famous card game took place. It is, however, a legendary venue in its own right, and the terrace, with its view of the boats in the Vieux-Port, is the perfect place to meet before a big night out. The Acid-Jazz ambiance attracts a well-heeled crowd for tapas (small Spanish-style plates to share) which begins at 7p.
"The Trolley", as everyone in Marseille calls it, is undoubtedly the most frequented and symbolic night-time bar in town. Once inside the maze of 4 rooms, in the heart of town, one discovers a fascinating décor: galleries with different types of music, a bowling area and a whisky bar. All the four rooms: Whisky Bar, Abribus, Terminus and Trolley bar offer different delights, some of which are equipped with facilities to host various events:concerts, product launches and so on.There's something for everyone here.
The ritzy Dantès Skylounge occupies the sprawling rooftop of Hôtel Sofitel Marseille Vieux Port and promises some spectacular views of the Old Port. The terrace venue is also famous for its live music nights and inventive concoctions stirred up by its experienced bartenders. The panoramic venue exudes a character heavily inspired from a key figure seen in Alexandre Dumas' iconic novel Count of Monte Cristo.
During the holiday period this is one of the busiest "pre-night-club" spots around. Bistrot Plage draws in the young crowds who like house music, to get their evening off to a good start before going to the clubs. There is a student night every week, with a different theme every time, including barbecues, tapas and a host of other delights. DJ Momo sets the atmosphere alight with his decks and Saturday nights invariably turn into a real fiesta.
Established in 1969 by Jean Dop, a former French international rugby player, the Bar de la Marine is still a real haven for the Cassidens (the inhabitants of Cassis). Today, the rugby player’s daughter has taken over her father’s business, making sure the atmosphere is always lively. Situated right on the port of Cassis, this is a place where people feel welcome and are very often greeted with a smile and homemade tapas. The old posters and photos hanging on the walls have not moved over the years and make the place feel like the bars of an age gone by.