Must-try Dishes
Socca - A chickpea flour pancake that's crispy on the outside and soft within. It's a staple street food in Cannes, often enjoyed hot from street vendors with a sprinkle of pepper.
Ratatouille - A hearty vegetable stew featuring zucchini, eggplant, peppers, and tomatoes, slow-cooked to bring out the flavors. Locals typically eat it during lunch, often paired with crusty bread for dipping.
Pissaladière - A savory tart topped with caramelized onions, olives, and anchovies on a thin pastry crust. Commonly enjoyed for dinner in casual eateries, it’s a dish that speaks to the region's Mediterranean roots.
Riz de Veau - Tender veal sweetbreads served with a rich cream sauce and sautéed mushrooms. This dish is celebrated in more upscale restaurants, usually savored during special family gatherings.
Brandade de Morue - A creamy mixture of salt cod, olive oil, and potatoes, often served as a spread on toast or with a side of vegetables. It's popular in winter months, providing warmth and comfort.
Crêpe Sarladaise - An unexpectedly delightful sweet and savory combination of crêpe filled with duck confit and drizzled with truffle oil. Locals often indulge in this treat during festive occasions or at casual dinners.
Salade Niçoise - A fresh salad made with tomatoes, green beans, potatoes, tuna, and olives, drizzled with olive oil. It's perfect for summer lunches, though ordering without asking for mayonnaise can save you from surprises!
Farcit de Courgettes - Zucchini stuffed with seasoned meat and herbs, baked until golden. This dish showcases local flavors and is often enjoyed in homes during family Sunday meals, bringing everyone together at the table.
Desserts & Drinks
Café au Lait - Café au Lait (coffee with milk) - A smooth blend of strong brewed coffee and steamed milk, served in generous bowls. Locals love to enjoy this in the morning at outdoor cafes, soaking up the vibrant Cannes atmosphere.
Pousse Café - Pousse Café (layered coffee drink) - This coffee drink features layers of espresso, liqueurs, and whipped cream, often artfully presented in clear glasses. It's a favorite post-meal treat, but it can be tricky to make at home—most locals prefer to order it at a café.
Pernod - Pernod (anise-flavored aperitif) - A refreshing anise-flavored liquor that's usually diluted with water and served over ice, creating a milky appearance. Enjoyed as an aperitif before meals, it's a typically French way to kick off an evening, especially during warm summer nights along the Croisette.
Omelette Norvégienne - Omelette Norvégienne (Baked Alaska) - This decadent dessert features ice cream topped with sponge cake and encased in a fluffy meringue, then briefly baked until golden. Commonly served on special occasions, it's a delightful surprise that combines contrasting temperatures.
Sorbet au Citron - Sorbet au Citron (lemon sorbet) - This icy dessert is made from fresh lemons, sugar, and just a hint of mint, resulting in a zesty and refreshing treat. Often consumed on hot days along the beach, it's the ideal palate cleanser, especially during warmer months. By the way, don’t be surprised by the tangy kick!
