Drinking in Europe's 2014 Cultural Capital offers plenty of sea, sun, and scene
Nestled in Le Corbusier’s Cité Radieuse, Le Ventre de l’Architecte is first and foremost one of Marseille’s top culinary destinations. The “creations” are by chef Alexandre Mazzia, the furniture by Charlotte Perriand and Jean Prouvé: this is a Mecca for foodies and architecture and design enthusiasts. In the afternoon, the charming balcony is also a perfect place to sip a cold drink and take in a unique perspective on the city’s southern boroughs, which stretch lazily along the sea.
280, Boulevard Michelet
+33 4 91 16 78 23
Cover image: Courtesy of La Bar Caravelle via Facebook
One of Marseille’s latest additions, the bar at the cheeky Philippe Starck-designed Mama Shelter hotel brings a touch of quirky cosmopolitan style to a not-yet-glamorous Cours Julien neighborhood. Inside, the illuminated bar shines on a row of children’s inflatables, and flower pots decorate the stripy white and yellow walls. But the cocktails are what it’s all about here. They may not have the classiest names, but the vodka-based Mango Spicy, Porn Movie (splashed with champagne and raspberry puree), and Sexy Summer (tequila with passionfruit) will have you going all night.
64, rue de la Loubière
+33 4 84 35 20 20
On the first floor of the Hotel Bellevue, Quai du Port, La Caravelle is a real Marseille institution. Its sought-after balcony is a prime spot to enjoy the view of the city’s landmark, Notre Dame de la Garde, and the hundreds of sailing boats bobbing along in the Old Port underneath. In the dark wood interior of this former cabaret, a fine selection of whiskeys and local wines comes with generous tapas (free of charge). Simple but well-executed Marseille delicacies — such as the Daube Provençale (beef stew) and Pieds paquets (stuffed sheep’s offal) — complete the menu.
34, Quai du Port, Le Vieux Port
+33 4 91 90 36 64
To drink here is to be in the know. To reach the Rowing Club restaurant and bar, climb two flights of stairs, past the historical Rowing Club (still going strong), and then look for the astroturf. What awaits is one of the most stunning views of the Old Port, from the Fort St Jean to Rudy Ricciotti’s brand new MUCEM. Local rosé wine is well priced, and so are the tapas (locally known as “kemia”) with influences ranging from all corners on the Mediterranean.
34, Bd Charles Livon
+33 4 91 90 07 78
Tucked away behind the Old Port, this cosy drinking den is a must for wine lovers. La Part des Anges’s extensive list — or rather blackboard — takes you on a tour de France, in which each region is fully represented and most wines are available by the glass (starting at a modest 2 euros). The sometimes-mercurial staff are very knowledgeable, and almost always ready to share their extensive knowledge. The owners have clearly worked just as hard on their cheese and charcuterie selection — and for nights at home, bottles are available to take away.
33, rue Sainte
+33 4 91 33 55 70
