A Traveler’s Must-Try Restaurants in Nice
Le Plongeoir Restaurant at the entrance to Port Lympia, Nice; (c) Nik/PEXELS
Is a trip to the French Riviera on the horizon? Whether you are passing through this picturesque city in the Côte d’Azur or spending a few days there, you will be glad you stopped by, as Nice is home to a variety of restaurants you will want to check out.
Le Plongeoir
Along the scenic coast and with year-round views of the Mediterranean Sea, sits my all-time favorite restaurant in Nice, Le Plongeoir. What makes this restaurant so unique is that it’s situated on a rock formation. Yes, a on a rock! In addition to the open-air dining structure, you will enjoy the beautiful sea views and the delicious menu options — featuring seafood, meat, and seasonal vegetables— Le Plongeoir offers something for everyone.
Fresh seafood is always on the menu at Le Plongeoir; (c) Jeannette Ceja/SoulOfAmerica
My personal recommendation is to start your meal with an appetizer of the Burratina (pesto with orange, basil, pine nuts, and focaccia) and then go from there.
As you walk around the restaurant, you will also notice features a cool décor and statues of divers. Why divers you might ask? A fun fact is that “Le Plongeoir” translated in English means “the diving board.” Sometimes you’ll see them diving.
With luck while dining, you may see divers at Le Plongeoir; (c) Jeannette Ceja/SoulOfAmerica
You see ships passing to & from Port Lympia. The restaurant is also next to a beach, perfect for pre- or post-meal beach day. Reservations are highly recommended in well advance, as the restaurant is popular. A credit card is required to hold your reservation.
For more information visit: www.leplongeoir.com” target=”_blank”>https://www.leplongeoir.com
L’antidote
Nestled in the heart of Nice, in the vibrant Carré d’or neighborhood, is a hidden gem you won’t want to miss. Situated just a few blocks away from the sea, you will find the family-operated restaurant called L’antidote. Open seven days a week, L’antidote has a seasonal menu with everything from vegetarian options to specialty meat dishes that includes duck and pigeon.
Sliced octopus at L’antidote tastes better than you might think; (c) Jeanette Ceja/SoulOfAmerica
In addition, if you are just looking for a chic bar to grab a drink, L’antidote has a daily happening happy hour, and occasionally has guest bartenders, and industry experts do masterclass events. Overall, this restaurant provides the perfect ambiance for a drink or dinner — whether you are solo, with friends, family, or a romantic partner.
Enjoy a cocktails during Happy Hour at L’antidote in Carre d’Or; (c) Jeannette Ceja/SoulOfAmerica
For more information: https://lantidotenice.fr/fr
N La Plage
A visit to Nice is not complete without a stop at the historic hotel, Le Negresco. The hotel is home to several restaurants, including the Michelin-star restaurant, Le Chantecler. But one of the hotels restaurants can only be experienced during the summer.
Enjoy a glass of champagne on the patio Le Negresco; (c) SoulOfAmerica
Reopening by May 2026, another must-visit is Le Negresco Hotel’s beachfront restaurant called N La Plage at Le Negresco Beach Club. The menu has a vast selection of appetizers, main dishes including seafood (lobster and sea bass) and a “catch of the day.”
Here, you will also have a table just steps from the beach. It’s worth the views alone, but cocktails or a glass of champagne tops things off nicely!
Entry to N La Plage Restaurant across from Le Negresco Hotel; (c) Jeannette Ceja/SoulOfAmerica
For more information: https://www.lenegresco.com/en/n-la-plage
Jeannette Ceja visiting Le Plongeoir Restaurant; (c) Jeannette Ceja