"If you've been to France, chances are you haven't been here, France's second-largest city, the oldest city in France. It sits right by the Mediterranean. The food is famously good. Yet it's a victim of bad reputation, bad history. Marseille--as it turns out, exactly the kind of place I like." In Marseille we followed in the footsteps of the incomparable Anthony Bourdain. We hit up this bar/bistro we saw on his Marseille episodes of 'Parts Unknown' for a quick bite. The vibes in the place were all around very cool and so were the guys running the joint, who spoke pretty good English. It was laid back and had killer views of the old port. It has a huge open front allowing for a nice flow of air. It's has a darker feel to it. It had vintage touches and was kinda imstagrammable. It was hip without wanting to be. I definitely pictured Anthony sitting in the corner with some pastis or something. We just relaxed with some espresso, although some of their crafted cocktails were calling my name. It was easy too early (for me, not for anyone else in town). We did indulge in some sumac hummus, which was topped with perfectly roasted eggplant, an flavorful lemony tahini drizzle, and tart pomegranate seeds. It was a gorgeous color, super creamy and served with baguette, which is new to me. A fabulous dish. Some of the best hummus I've ever tasted in fact! It left me wanting to dive into other plates, but we were so full from snacking around the city and they wouldn't do anything to-go. (I asked.) Other menu items include traditional as well as a fusion of Mediterranean and Moroccan dishes. Smaller plates for sharing mostly. Definitely a place worth checking out. I'm really glad we did! Even just for a drink. I can imagine it gets pretty interesting at night. Hours are funny. We tried to head here the night of The World Cup and they were closed. Perhaps call first if you're going out of your way. Parking is available on their street. It may take a circle or two to find a spot. read more

Café de l'Abbaye - Sumac hummus. Insane!! Topped with roasted eggplant, pomegranate seeds and tahini. - Bistros Near Me - Marseille, 13

You have to hike a bit - and uphill! - to reach CdL'Abbaye, but every step is worth it. I happened upon it the night before England and Russia went at it/each other in the EUFA 2016 game in Marseille, and it was a nice getaway spot perched high above above the old port and the soccer crowd, who were already starting to show signs of rowdiness. Not here, though, with fine western and southern views over the old port, forts, and beyond, and a perfect sunset to keep everyone pleasantly relaxed. There's a good selection of beers, and the barkeep was friendly and even comped me a drink ... I think. I didn't try anything to eat; I don't believe they were even serving food at the time. Crowd is much more mellow than you'll find down below: families w/ kids, couples, friends, and everyone enjoying the view most couthly. Another great thing: almost atop a hill, it's a nice downhill stumble when it comes time to head back to your hotel ... or someone else's. NB: Forget trying to cut thru the neighboring Radisson Hotel - which is a nice hotel with a comfortable rooftop view bar of its own, BTW - because there's no direct connection to CdL'A. Not that the Radisson has blocked anything off to keep the trade to itself; the two buildings and the lots they sit on just don't "communicate," as hoteliers say. The stairs aren't that bad and when you get to the top, the view, the crowd, and the drinks make it all worth your while. You'll pass by La Passarelle, an excellent and acclaimed French country/seafood restaurant on your way up, and just might decide to dine in its delightful garden on the way down. read more

Fantastic little bar with views of the port and and bay. Perfect place to grab an apéro in the summer months and watch the sun go down with a pastis in hand. read more

This little cafe just made my entire trip to Marseille. It has home cooking, perfectly done. A very small place, run precisely. We were the only English speakers; fortunately I have enough French to order. My husband's fish entre was so fresh, and lightly seasoned. My cote de veau was equally delicious. Excellent coffee, and the tarte tatain was the perfect finish. We were lucky to get a seat on a rainy day in April. A lovely cafe. read more