Must-try Dishes
Socca - This delicious chickpea pancake has a crispy exterior while remaining soft on the inside. You’ll often find locals enjoying it as a casual street food snack, especially in the Old Town.
Pan Bagnat - A hearty tuna sandwich packed with tomatoes, olives, and hard-boiled eggs, all nestled in a soft bread. Many locals enjoy it as a portable lunch on days spent at the beach or parks.
Ratatouille - A colorful vegetable medley mostly composed of zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers, slow-cooked to enhance the flavors. Typically savored for dinner, it embodies the spirit of fresh ingredients, often served with crusty bread.
Daube Niçoise - A flavorful beef stew slow-cooked with wine, herbs, and vegetables that delivers a rich, comforting experience. Locals savor it during family gatherings, often served with traditional pasta, especially on chilly evenings.
Farcis Niçois - These stuffed vegetables filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, and herbs are a true Nice specialty. Friends come together to share them at gatherings, often making it an all-day affair.
Panisses - Crispy, fried chickpea flour pieces, they’re often enjoyed as a street food staple with an aromatic herb-infused taste. Perfect for snacking anytime, locals grab them from food stalls during bustling market days.
Tian de légumes - Layers of zucchini, tomatoes, and eggplant baked with herbs and olive oil, resulting in a beautifully roasted dish. Served commonly in the summer, it's a delightful way to celebrate seasonal produce.
By the way, don’t make the mistake of asking for "ratatouille" as a side dish; it’s generally served as a main, and you’d want to embrace it in its full, hearty glory!
Desserts & Drinks
Espresso - Café (strong coffee) - A rich shot of coffee brewed by forcing hot water through finely-ground coffee beans. Locals savor this potent brew throughout the day, but it’s particularly popular during morning rituals or post-meal.
Pastis - Pastis (anise-flavored spirit) - A refreshing anise-flavored drink that turns a milky white when mixed with water. Enjoyed primarily as an aperitif, locals typically sip it on sun-soaked terraces with a plate of olives during the warm evenings.
Citronnade - Citronnade (lemonade) - A thirst-quenching drink made from fresh lemons, water, and sugar, served over ice. Best enjoyed during the hot summer months, it’s a favorite at picnics by the beach, and locals prefer it sweeter than tourists might expect.
Tourte de Blettes - Tourte de Blettes (Swiss chard tart) - A sweet and savory pastry filled with swiss chard, raisins, and pine nuts, baked to perfection in a flaky crust. Traditionally made during fall harvest season, it’s common to find this delight in local bakeries, usually served warm or at room temperature.
Glace aux Fruits - Glace aux Fruits (fruit sorbet) - A light, fruity sorbet made with fresh, seasonal fruits, like strawberry or fig, churned to creamy perfection. Popular during the sweltering summer months, it’s frequently enjoyed as a refreshing treat while strolling along the Promenade des Anglais. By the way, don’t confuse it with ice cream; the texture is less creamy and more refreshing!
