1. Le Petit Nice - Hotel and restaurant
Le Petit Nice has a family history going back a hundred years. It was bought by Germain Passedat in 1917, who made some additions and improvements and passed the reins to his son Jean-Paul in 1954, who made some more additions and improvements (and who incidentally still greets diners at the bar). Now it is run by his son, the celebrated chef Gérard Passedat, who has made it what it is today.
lunch preparations
The kitchen has a glass wall looking out onto the alley so anyone walking past can watch him and his team prepare the dishes that earned him his 3* Michelin status in 2008.
You don't have to be an aficionado of three-star dining to have a wonderful time at the Le Petit Nice... it is such a welcoming place and such a beautiful setting. The calm, light rooms are stylish and elegant and have amazing views over the Mediterranean sea.. the perfect place to relax and unwind. It was bliss to settle down in the room, let the soft breeze float through open windows, and listen to seagulls while reading in bed or lounging on the private terrace.
When the Passedat family bought it in 1917, it was the 'Villa Eugenie'. Then later, because of its beautiful setting and many improvements and refinements, it was re-named the Petit Nice. I think of it as the Petit Paradis!
Le Petit Nice Passedat: 17 Rue des Braves, 13007 Marseille, Tel: +33 (4) 91 59 25 9,
2. Hotel de Dieu - Hotel and Restaurant
The Hotel de Dieu's is a majestic building overlooking the Vieux Port (old harbor). It dates back to the year 1188, has traversed the centuries in different roles and is interwoven with Marseille's history (read more here)
The dining terrace overlooks the Old Port harbour with a fabulous view across to the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde church, a symbol of Marseille and built on the highest hill of the city.
2. Sofitel - Hotel and Restaurant
The Sofitel's "Trois Forts Restaurant" is located on the 7th floor and offers a spectacular view of the Old Port, particularly at night.
Sofitel Marseille: 36 Boulevard Charles Livon, 13007 Marseille, Tel: +33 (0)4 91 15 59 00 www.sofitel/marseille.com
Les Trois Forts Restaurant (Sofitel, 7th floor) http://www.lestroisforts.fr/
2. L'Epuisette - Restaurant
The L'Epuisette is right by the sea in the picturesque Vallon des Auffes, a small fishermen's port surrounded by colourful cottages and houses.
The decor is light, warm and modern. It has a wonderful Mediterranean menu, beautiful views and fabulous fish.
The catch of the day - Loup de Mer
L'Epuisette: Vallon des Auffes, 13007 Marseille, Tel: +33 (4) 91 52 17 82, www.l-epuisette.fr
2. FonFon - Restaurant
The Fonfon is a well-known fish and seafood restaurant in the Vallon des Auffes.
Le Petit Nice Passedat: 17 Rue des Braves, 13007 Marseille, Tel: +33 (4) 91 59 25 9,
Sofitel Marseille: 36 Boulevard Charles Livon, 13007 Marseille, Tel: +33 (4) 91 15 59 00, www.sofitel/marseille.com
Les Trois Forts Restaurant (Sofitel, 7th floor) http://www.lestroisforts.fr/
L'Epuisette: Vallon des Auffes, 13007 Marseille, Tel: +33 (4) 91 52 17 82, www.l-epuisette.fr