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Nestled in the heart of Provence, Marseille is a vibrant port city that is often overlooked by travellers in favour of its more famous French counterparts. However, for those who venture here, Marseille offers a rich culinary tapestry woven from its diverse cultural influences. The crown jewel of this gastronomic landscape is undoubtedly bouillabaisse, a dish that epitomises the soul of Marseille.
Bouillabaisse, pronounced boo-yah-bess, is more than just a seafood soup – it is a sensory experience that tells the story of Marseille’s maritime heritage. It’s often cited as one of the most iconic dishes to eat in Europe.
And while many restaurants along Marseille’s Old Port boast of their bouillabaisse, it’s best to plan ahead and choose a spot known for its authenticity. Here are 5 renowned restaurants in Marseille where you can enjoy an exceptional bouillabaisse.
What is bouillabaisse – recipe, ingredients, prices and origins
This iconic seafood soup has deep roots in the city’s history, dating back to the founding of Massalia by the Greeks. Originally a poor fisherman’s meal dish made from unsold fish scraps, bouillabaisse has evolved into a luxurious experience. Indeed, bouillabaisse is now a splurge, often costing €50 or more. Many restaurants even require advance booking.
A good money-saving option for those on a budget is to ask for the fish soup rather than the bouillabaisse. It’s a stripped-down version of the dish that’s often included in prix fixe menus to showcase the catch of the day.
The high price of bouillabaisse reflects the high quality of the seafood traditionally used. Bouillabaisse from Marseilles must include at least four of the following species, depending on what is available. The key to the success of a bouillabaisse is the extreme freshness of the fish.
- Scorpion fish
- Monkfish
- White scorpion fish
- Conger (known locally as fiélas)
- Spider crab
- Capon
- Red mullet (known locally as galinette)
- Saint-Pierre
- Slipper lobster
- Crawfish
To live up to its name, bouillabaisse must be served in two stages. First, the stock is prepared, a fragrant and spicy base with saffron, fennel and a variety of Provencal herbs. Then the fish is filleted at the table and added to the broth with croutons topped with rouille, aioli and potatoes.
Watching this meticulous process is as pleasurable as tasting the dish itself.
Restaurant Chez Loury
Chez Loury is a local favourite in the Old Port. It offers an authentic Marseillaise dining experience, complete with slower, traditional French service, which some tourists may misinterpret as rudeness. However, this adds to its charm and gives you a real taste of local life. Also known as the Mistral restaurant, Chez Loury is famous not only for its bouillabaisse (€48) but also for its sea bass and sorbet.
Chez Loury
3 Rue Fortia, 13001 Marseille
Chez Fonfon – the best bouillabaisse fish soup in Marseille
With over 50 years of history, Chez Fonfon is as legendary for its food as it is for its picturesque harbour and Corniche Président John Fitzgerald Kennedy views. Nestled in the charming neighbourhood of Vallon des Auffes, this restaurant offers an unforgettable dining experience. Vallon des Auffes, a picturesque fishing port nestled between the cliffs and the sea, is an enchanting place that captures the hearts of all who visit. This idyllic setting adds a magical touch to every meal at Chez Fonfon, where the sound of the waves and the sight of colourful boats create a soothing and authentic atmosphere.
The restaurant also has a shop where you can purchase takeaway delicacies such as rockfish soup, aioli and rouille sauce to extend your culinary adventure at home. Due to its popularity, reservations are a must. Bouillabaisse costs €53 and you can choose to have the fish filleted at the table or in the kitchen.
Chez Fonfon
140 Rue du Vallon des Auffes, Marseille
Chez Michel
Family-run since 1946, Chez Michel offers a rustic, authentic experience on the Plage des Catalans. Known for its traditional ambience and listed in the Michelin Guide, this restaurant only has two tables a day, so reservations are essential. Expect to pay between €80 and €100 per person for a truly memorable meal.
Chez Michel
6 Rue des Catalans, 13007 Marseille
Chez Madie les Galinettes – the most authentic bouillabaisse in Marseille’s Old Port
Located on the north side of the Old Port, Chez Madie les Galinettes is perfect if you’re also exploring Le Panier, the historic part of the city. Renowned for its excellent seafood, this place attracts locals with its traditional bouillabaisse recipe, using only the finest local fish and Provençal herbs. Bouillabaisse here costs €53, with the fish filleted at the table.
Chez Madie les Galinettes
138 Quai du Port, Marseille
Le Miramar
For an upscale dining experience that captures the essence of Marseille, Le Miramar is the place to be. Nestled in the heart of the Vieux-Port, this iconic restaurant offers not just a meal, but a journey through the rich tapestry of Marseillaise culture and history. Established in 1965, Le Miramar has long been a beacon of culinary excellence, attracting gourmets and travellers from around the world.
The décor combines classic French sophistication with modern touches, with white tablecloths, plush seating and tasteful nautical accents that nod to its coastal heritage. Large windows offer panoramic views of the bustling harbour, where fishing boats and yachts provide a picturesque backdrop that enhances the dining experience.
Le Miramar
12 Quai du Port, 13002 Marseille
