Last Updated on September 11, 2023 by April | Dreaming in French
Despite the fact that the title says ‘Food in Marseille‘, ‘Marseille Cuisine I wish I had eaten‘ is a far better title.
Due to the tight schedule of only having 24-hours in Marseille, I was unable to fully experience the city’s Provencal cuisine.
As a result, sharing this post with you serves as a reminder for me since I know I’ll return to Marseille France someday.
From savory bread to sweet biscuits, food in Marseille has plenty of delights to offer. I’ll introduce you to the top 15+ things to eat when you visit Marseille.
Psst! This blog post contains affiliate links in it which sends me a bit of extra money if you use them… at no extra cost to you. Merci!
If you are in a hurry, here’s a summary of discovering food in Marseille:
Introduction to food in Marseille
Marseille is a city that has a rich culinary history, and it is reflected in its diverse and flavorful cuisine. The city’s cuisine is heavily influenced by its location on the Mediterranean coast, which means that seafood dishes are a staple.
Additionally, Marseille has a strong connection to the Provencal region, which is known for its use of herbs and spices in their cooking.
Discovering Traditional food in Marseille
Moules-frites
Moules-frites is a popular dish in Marseille, and can be found in many restaurants. The dish is usually served with a side of bread, and can be a meal on its own. Mousseline sauce, a creamy dipping sauce made with mayonnaise, is a popular accompaniment to moules-frites.
Moules-frites is a simple dish to make at home, and only requires a few ingredients. The dish can be made with any type of mussel, and the sauce can be made with any type of white wine or cider. The fries can be made in the oven or fried.
Panisse
Panisse is a traditional snack that is made from chickpea flour. It is a popular street food in Marseille and is often served as an appetizer in restaurants. Panisse is made by mixing chickpea flour with water and then frying it until it is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. It is typically served with a sprinkle of salt and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Panisse is a simple yet delicious snack that is perfect for a quick bite on the go. It has a nutty flavor and a creamy texture that makes it a satisfying snack. You can find panisse at many street food vendors in Marseille, or you can try making it yourself at home.
Pistou Soup
There are few meals more satisfying than a bowl of warm, comforting soup. And when that soup is packed full of flavorful ingredients like Pistou soup, it’s even better.
Pistou soup is a traditional Provençal soup made with a variety of vegetables, herbs, and of course, Pistou. Pistou is a paste made from garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, and it gives the soup its unique flavor.
The vegetables in Pistou soup can vary depending on what’s in season, but typically, you’ll find carrots, potatoes, zucchini, and green beans in the mix. The soup is also typically made with a beef or chicken broth, but you can use vegetable broth if you prefer.
Anchoïade
Anchoïade is a French dish that originates from the city of Marseille. It is typically made with garlic, anchovies, olive oil, and vinegar, and can be served as either a dip or a spread.
This dish is particularly popular during the summer months, when fresh anchovies are in season. However, it can be enjoyed year-round by using canned or jarred anchovies.
Anchoïade is typically served with bread or crackers, and can also be used as a condiment for grilled meats or fish.
Bottarga
Bottarga is a traditional food from the Mediterranean island of Sardinia. It is made from the roe of a mullet fish, and is cured in salt and then dried. The resulting product is a hard, dry, and salty cheese-like food that is typically sliced thin and eaten with bread or used as a flavoring for pasta dishes.
Bottarga has a strong, fishy flavor that some people compare to anchovies. It is an acquired taste, but once you get used to it, it can be quite addictive. If you are looking for something different to try, and you are a fan of anchovies, then bottarga is definitely worth seeking out.
Navettes
Navettes are sweet biscuits that are shaped like boats. They are a traditional Marseille specialty that is often served during religious celebrations. Navettes are made from a dough that is flavored with orange blossom water and then shaped into small boats. They are then baked until they are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Navettes have a delicate flavor that is reminiscent of the Mediterranean. They are a perfect accompaniment to a cup of coffee or tea. You can find navettes at many bakeries and pastry shops in Marseille.
Pissaladière
Pissaladière is a dish that is similar to pizza, but instead of tomato sauce, it is topped with caramelized onions and anchovies. It is a traditional dish in Marseille and is often served as an appetizer. Pissaladière is made by cooking sliced onions in olive oil until they are caramelized. The onions are then spread over a thin layer of dough and topped with anchovies and black olives.
Pissaladière has a rich and savory flavor that is perfect for those who love salty dishes. It is a great option for a light lunch or dinner. You can find Pissaladière at many restaurants and cafes in Marseille.
Madeleines
One of the most popular things to eat in Marseille is the madeleine. Madeleines are small, sponge cakes that are traditionally flavored with lemon. They are often served with tea or coffee, and they make a great snack or dessert.
If you’re looking for a delicious madeleine in Marseille, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, the madeleines at Le Comptoir de Mathilde are some of the best in the city. This bakery is located in the Old Port, and it’s known for its fresh, madeleines. If you’re looking for a less expensive option, the madeleines at Monoprix are also quite good.
When it comes to choosing a madeleine, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, the texture of the madeleine should be light and fluffy. If it’s too dense, it’s not a good madeleine. Second, the madeleine should be flavored with lemon. If it’s not, it’s not a traditional madeleine. And finally, the madeleine should be served with tea or coffee. If it’s not, it’s not a complete meal!
Bouillabaisse
Bouillabaisse is Marseille’s most famous dish. It is a fish stew that is made with a variety of fresh fish such as sea bass, monkfish, and red mullet. The fish soup is flavored with saffron, garlic, and herbs such as thyme and bay leaves. It is often served with a side of rouille, a garlicky mayonnaise that is spread on bread.
Bouillabaisse has a rich and flavorful taste that is perfect for seafood lovers. It is a popular food in Marseille and is often served in traditional restaurants. If you want to try Bouillabaisse, it is recommended to make a reservation in advance.
Since you are here, you probably want to read this post too: The Best Things To Buy In Marseille Today
Daube
When it comes to food, Marseille is best known for its seafood. But there are many other delicious things to eat in this French city. One of Marseille’s most popular dishes is daube, a stew made with beef, tomatoes, vegetables, and red wine.
Daube is a hearty dish that is perfect for a cold winter day. The beef is cooked slowly in the red wine, resulting in a rich and flavorful stew. The tomatoes and vegetables add a touch of sweetness and acidity to the dish, while the red wine gives it a deep and complex flavor.
This dish is best served with a side of steamed rice or mashed potatoes. And of course, no meal in Marseille would be complete without a glass of red wine!
North African Food
When in Marseille, make sure to try some of the North African food options! While couscous is the best known North African dish, there are many other delicious options to choose from. Try the Algerian dish of merguez, a lamb sausage spiced with cumin, paprika, and chili pepper. Or the Tunisian specialty of brik, a fried pastry filled with an egg, tuna, and vegetables.
For something sweet, try Libyan halva, a dense semolina pudding flavored with almonds, anise, and rose water. There are endless possibilities when it comes to North African food, so make sure to try something new while you’re in Marseille!
Spices
Spices are an important part of the cuisine in Marseille, and there are a few that are particularly noteworthy. One of the most popular spices is saffron, which is used in a variety of dishes including bouillabaisse, a traditional fish stew. Other spices commonly used in Marseille include rosemary, thyme, and basil.
When it comes to spice, Marseille really knows how to add some flavor to its dishes! Saffron is one of the most popular spices used in many different dishes like the traditional fish stew, bouillabaisse. Along with other spices like rosemary, thyme, and basil, these spices give the food in Marseille its distinct taste. Be sure to try a dish or two with these spices the next time you’re in Marseille!
Wine
Marseille is a French city with a strong Mediterranean influence. This is reflected in the city’s food, which features fresh seafood, herbs, and olive oil. The wines of Marseille are just as impressive, and there are many different types to choose from.
Some of the most popular wines produced in Marseille include Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Bandol, and Cassis. Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a red wine that is made from Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre grapes. Bandol is another red wine, made from Mourvèdre grapes. Cassis is a white wine made from the local white grapes of the same name.
Marseille is also home to several wine bars and restaurants. Many of these establishments specialize in wines from the local vineyards. Additionally, many of these bars and restaurants offer wine tasting events. This is a great way to sample a variety of Marseille’s wines and to learn more about the city’s wine culture.
Aioli with vegetables and fish
Aioli is a garlicky mayonnaise that is often served with seafood in Marseille. It is made by mixing garlic, egg yolks, and olive oil until it forms a thick and creamy sauce. Aioli is typically served with boiled potatoes, carrots, and fish.
Aioli has a strong garlic flavor that is perfect for those who love bold flavors. It is a popular condiment in Marseille and is often served in traditional restaurants.
Pieds Paquets
Pieds et Paquets is a traditional Marseille dish that is made with lamb feet and tripe. It is a hearty dish that is typically served during the winter months. Pieds et Paquets is made by stuffing lamb tripe with a mixture of lamb feet, onions, and herbs. The dish is then cooked in a tomato-based sauce.
Pieds et Paquets has a rich and flavorful taste that is perfect for those who love meat dishes. It is a traditional dish in Marseille and is often served in local restaurants.
Tapenade
Tapenade is a spread that is made from olives and capers. It is a popular condiment in Marseille and is often served as an appetizer. Tapenade is made by blending olives, capers, garlic, and olive oil until it forms a thick paste.
Tapenade has a salty and savory flavor that is perfect for those who love bold flavors. It is a versatile condiment that can be used as a spread on bread or as a dip for vegetables.
Picon
Picon is a French liqueur made from orange peel and bitter almonds. It is used to make the classic French aperitif, the Picon Punch. Picon Punch is made by mixing Picon with wine or Champagne. It is a popular drink in Marseille and is often served at parties and celebrations.
Ratatouille
Ratatouille is a vegetable stew that is made with Mediterranean flavors. It is a popular dish in Marseille and is often served as a side dish. Ratatouille is made by cooking a variety of vegetables such as eggplants, zucchinis, and tomatoes with garlic and herbs.
Ratatouille has a fresh and flavorful taste that is perfect for those who love vegetable dishes. It is a great option for a light lunch or dinner.
Pastis de Marseille
Pastis is an anise-flavored liquor that is popular in Marseille. It is often served as an aperitif and is typically mixed with water. Pastis has a licorice-like flavor that is perfect for those who love bold and unique flavors.
Pastis is a popular drink in Marseille and is often enjoyed in traditional cafes and bars.
Poutargue
Poutargue is a traditional food from Marseille that is made from dried and salted fish roe. It has a strong flavor and is often used as a condiment or spread. Poutargue can be found in many stores in Marseille, and it is also sometimes called poor man’s caviar.
Fougasse Bread
Fougasse is a savory bread that is often filled with olives or cheese. It is a popular snack in Marseille and is often served as an appetizer. Fougasse is made by mixing flour, yeast, and water until it forms a dough. The dough is then filled with olives or cheese and baked until it is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Fougasse has a rich and savory flavor that is perfect for those who love bread and cheese. It is a great option for a quick snack or as an appetizer.
Chichi Frégi
Chichi Frégi is a sweet, fried dough snack that is popular in Marseille. It is made by mixing flour, eggs, and sugar until it forms a dough. The dough is then fried until it is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Chichi Frégi is often served with a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
Chichi Frégi has a sweet and satisfying taste that is perfect for those who love desserts. It is a popular snack in Marseille and is often found at local fairs and festivals.
Calissons
Calissons are almond-shaped sweets that have a marzipan-like filling. They are a traditional Marseille delicacy and are often served during special occasions. Calissons are made by blending ground almonds with sugar and then shaping the mixture into small almond-shaped pieces. The pieces are then topped with a layer of icing.
Calissons have a sweet and nutty flavor that is perfect for those who love desserts. They are a great option for a special treat or as a gift for friends and family.
Pizza
Yes. I said pizza!
Pizza in Marseille is a must-try dish when visiting the city. There are many pizzerias that offer traditional pizzas with a Marseille twist. The most popular pizzas in Marseille are the Marseille-style pizzas which are thin, crispy, and topped with fresh ingredients. Other popular pizzas include the 4 seasons pizza, the Margherita pizza, and the Quattro Formaggi pizza.
Seafood Platters
Seafood platters are a popular dish in Marseille. They typically consist of a variety of fresh seafood such as oysters, clams, and shrimp served on a platter. Seafood platters are often served with a side of aioli and a glass of white wine.
Seafood platters have a fresh and flavorful taste that is perfect for seafood lovers. They are a must-try when visiting Marseille.
Where to Try Food in Marseille
If you’re looking for a good meal in Marseille, you won’t have to look far. The city is loaded with great restaurants that offer a variety of different cuisines. You can find anything from traditional French fare to international dishes. Marseille is also home to a number of Michelin-starred restaurants, so if you’re looking for a truly unique dining experience, you’ll definitely find it here.
Some of the best restaurant in Marseille include:
- Le Coin Provencal is a great spot for traditional French cuisine. The menu features a variety of classic dishes, all of which are cooked to perfection.
- Restaurant Pizzeria Le Joli Port is perfect if you’re looking for a casual dining experience. The restaurant serves a variety of different pizzas, all of which are made with fresh ingredients.
- Les Trois Forts is a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers an exquisite dining experience. The menu features a variety of different French dishes, all of which are expertly prepared.
- La Bella Pizza is a pizzeria is located in the Vieux Port and is known for its traditional wood-fired pizzas. The pizzas here are simple but incredibly tasty.
Other Notable Food in Marseille
In addition to the dishes mentioned above, Marseille has plenty of other culinary experiences to offer. Some notable experiences include trying local cheeses such as Banon and Pélardon, visiting a Marseille food market such as the Marché de Noailles, and sampling local wines such as Cassis.
Where to Stay in Marseille
In a list of local foods, a hotel wouldn’t normally be so significant, but I really enjoyed staying at the Hôtel Dieu Intercontinental Marseille.
It offers amazing views and is prime location in the Old Port city, and near all the major attractions in Marseille.
Read Reviews on TripAdvisor or Check Rates on Booking.com
Final Thoughts on Food in Marseille
Marseille’s cuisine is a vibrant and diverse one that offers a range of flavors and experiences. From traditional dishes like Bouillabaisse and Pieds et Paquets to sweet treats like Calissons and Chichi Frégi, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So why not plan a trip to Marseille and discover the city’s culinary delights for yourself?
