Marseille is a city that stands out from the rest of France. Its population is a diverse mix of people from all over the world, and this is reflected in the local cuisine. When you visit Marseille, embrace this diversity and treat your taste buds to some unique ethnic flavors. Here are a few affordable restaurants that are worth checking out:
Le Soleil d’Egypte
Tucked away in the Noailles Quarter, Le Soleil d’Egypte (9 Rue Longue des Capucins) is a small stand in the Capuchin market that offers delicious North African street food. They specialize in takeaway items, but they can heat up your food for you if you ask (just make sure it’s piping hot before you dig in).
Some must-try dishes include:
- Bourek: A savory wrap filled with minced meat and potatoes
- Pastilla: A sweet and savory wrap stuffed with chicken, almonds, and eggs
- Beignets de pomme de terre: Spicy potato cakes that are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside
The prices are wallet-friendly, and the flavors are bold and satisfying.
La Boîte à Sardine
If you’re a seafood lover, you can’t miss La Boîte à Sardine (2 Boulevard de la Libération). This tiny restaurant-meets-fish shop serves up some of the freshest catches in town to a mostly local lunch crowd.
The menu changes daily based on what’s available, but you can expect dishes like:
- Chilled shrimp, straight from the Mediterranean
- Freshly shucked oysters and sea urchins (you can watch them being opened at the fish counter right outside)
- Bruschetta topped with flavorful seafood spreads
- Perfectly fried calamari and other seafood fritters
The restaurant is aptly named – it’s not much bigger than a sardine can. The nautical decor is quirky and fun, with stools made from repurposed mooring bollards. It’s about a 15-minute walk from the Vieux Port, but it’s worth the trek for the ultra-fresh seafood.
Le Vientiane
When you’re ready for a break from French fare, head to Le Vientiane (14 Rue de la Mûre) for some tasty Asian cuisine. This cozy spot north of the Vieux Port serves up authentic Vietnamese and Laotian dishes that will transport your taste buds to Southeast Asia.
Some standout dishes include:
- Crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables and meat
- Succulent roast duck with a crispy skin
- Refreshing chicken salad with herbs and a tangy dressing
The flavors are light and bright, and the prices are reasonable. It’s a great option for a casual lunch or dinner.
Le Mas Lulli
For a taste of home cooking, check out Le Mas Lulli (4 Rue Lulli), a local pub and diner that serves hearty meals to a late-night crowd. The menu features a mix of Italian and southern French dishes that will stick to your ribs.
Some of our favorite dishes include:
- Daube de boeuf: A rich, wine-braised beef stew served over penne pasta
- Banquette de veau: Tender veal stew with rice on the side
- Molten chocolate cake with a scoop of creamy English cream
- Mille-feuille with layers of flaky pastry and decadent chocolate mousse
The portions are generous, the flavors are comforting, and the atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a long day of sightseeing.
A Comfortable Place to Rest Your Head
After a day of exploring Marseille’s culinary scene, you’ll need a comfortable place to rest and recharge. One hotel that offers great value is the New Hotel Vieux Port (3 bis rue Reine-Elisabeth).
This centrally located hotel is just steps away from the waterfront, putting you in the heart of the action. The rooms are spacious, clean, and well-appointed, with modern furnishings and all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay.
Some standout features include:
- Large, plush beds with crisp linens
- Spacious bathrooms with high-quality toiletries
- Ample storage space for your luggage and belongings
- Complimentary Wi-Fi to keep you connected
The hotel also offers a generous breakfast buffet each morning, with a variety of hot and cold options to fuel you up for a day of exploring.
Best of all, the rates at New Hotel Vieux Port are very reasonable, especially considering the prime location and quality of the accommodations. It’s a great choice for budget-conscious travelers who don’t want to sacrifice comfort or convenience.
Tips for Dining and Staying in Marseille
To make the most of your culinary and hotel experiences in Marseille, keep these tips in mind:
- Be adventurous: Marseille’s dining scene is all about diversity and bold flavors. Don’t be afraid to try new dishes and cuisines that you might not find at home.
- Timing is everything: Many restaurants in Marseille close between lunch and dinner service, so plan your meals accordingly. Lunchtime is usually from around 12:00-2:00 PM, and dinner service often starts at 7:00 or 7:30 PM.
- Make reservations: While not always necessary, it’s a good idea to make reservations at popular restaurants, especially for dinner. This will ensure you get a table and avoid disappointment.
- Embrace the siesta: Like many Mediterranean cities, Marseille tends to slow down in the afternoon. Many shops and businesses close for a few hours in the middle of the day, so plan your sightseeing accordingly.
- Book early: Marseille is a popular tourist destination, especially in the summer months. To get the best rates and availability at hotels, try to book your accommodations well in advance.
A City of Flavor and Flair
Marseille is a city that will delight your senses and surprise you at every turn. From the colorful streets of the Noailles Quarter to the sparkling waters of the Vieux Port, there’s no shortage of things to see and do.
But it’s the food that really sets Marseille apart. The city’s diverse population has created a culinary scene that is as vibrant and varied as its people. Whether you’re in the mood for spicy North African street food, fresh Mediterranean seafood, or comforting French classics, you’ll find it all here.
And with affordable hotels like New Hotel Vieux Port, you can enjoy all that Marseille has to offer without breaking the bank. So pack your bags, bring your appetite, and get ready to discover the flavors and flair of this one-of-a-kind French city.
