Nice gastronomy: simple, authentic and full of flavor

Nice isn't just about the sea and the sun... it's also a unique culinary heritage filled with the scent of olive oil, fresh herbs, and southern markets. From socca to pan bagnat and petits farcis (small stuffed vegetables), here are some Niçois specialties not to be missed , and above all, where to taste them!

🫓 1. Socca – The essential golden pancake

Thin, crispy on the edges, soft in the center... socca is the essence of Nice on a plate! Prepared with chickpea flour and olive oil, it is eaten hot, often by hand, sprinkled with pepper.

👉 Our favorite address: Chez Pipo , at 13 rue Bavastro (port district). A local atmosphere, a traditional wood-fired oven, and a generous socca to share on the go or on the terrace.

🥖 2. The pan bagnat – The most Mediterranean sandwich in the world

Imagine a round loaf of bread generously soaked in olive oil, topped with raw vegetables, hard-boiled eggs, tuna (or anchovies), Niçoise olives, and above all... without ever adding cheese or mayonnaise (sacrilege!).

👉 Try it at theTintin kiosk in the Libération market. It has been voted one of the best pan bagnats in Nice several times. A sure bet, with ultra-fresh produce, often sourced from the neighboring market.

🍆 3. Stuffed vegetables and Niçoise stew

Aubergines, courgettes, onions... lovingly stuffed with meat and herbs, or stew, simmered for a long time in red wine, are among the traditional dishes that can still be found in some good, typical places.

👉 To try: At Palmyre, an institution in Old Nice (5 rue Droite), a small family restaurant with real soul.

🍅 4. Niçoise salad… the real one!

No potatoes or green beans here, but tomatoes, eggs, tuna or anchovies, radishes, spring onions and black olives from Nice.

👉 A very good version at: Lou Balico (20 av. Saint-Jean-Baptiste), where they serve traditional Niçoise cuisine in a no-nonsense atmosphere.

💡 Nice Garden Hotel Advice

At reception, we will be happy to show you our favorite places to taste these specialties , or even book a Nice cooking workshop if you want to get your hands dirty!