A Chef’s Guide To Cannes

Seafront eateries, pretty brasseries, glitzy fine dining: Cannes is a haven for foodies. One of the world’s most glamorous destinations, it’s no surprise the jewel of the French Riviera attracts a string of top chefs. One of these is Alessandro Pizza, a local chef who is currently at the helm of one of the coastal city’s buzziest openings, Lucia, a new concept from the team behind Nikki Beach. Here, he shares his favourite restaurants in Cannes.

Alessandro Pizza

Born in Cambridge to Italian parents, Alessandro began his culinary career at local restaurant Don Pasquale. He went on to attend pastry school in France, before moving to London, where he worked at Italian restaurant Teca. Since 2002, though, Alessandro’s attention has been focused on the French Riviera. He joined the team at Cannes stalwart Nikki Beach, going on to assist with the opening of outposts in Saint Tropez and St Barts. He’s also executive chef of the group’s new Cannes venue, Lucia, a stylish restaurant and bar on La Croisette focusing on Mediterranean fare.

Best Restaurants in Cannes: Alessandro Pizza’s Pick

Lucia

Starting with our newest pride and joy, Lucia – it’s truly the talk of the town. From the moment you step inside, you’re enveloped in its vibrant, maximalist decor and inviting atmosphere. I was truly inspired to craft our unique Cuisine du Soleil, a lively fusion of Mediterranean flavours drawing from all around the Med, including Lebanon and Turkey. Each dish is like embarking on a culinary adventure, with flavours that transport you to the shores of the Mediterranean. And with our seasonal rotating menu highlighting the freshest ingredients, you’ll get to experience something new every visit. I highly recommend trying the Tuna Crudo à la Niçoise and Zuppa Di Pesce this spring.

Bd de la Croisette, 06400 Cannes, France, luciacannes.com

Salama

At Salama, the sister restaurant of Salama St Tropez, classic Middle Eastern delights take centre stage, from creamy hummus to couscous royale. But it’s during the second service that Salama truly comes alive, transforming into a lively hotspot with belly dancers and live DJ sets.

10 Rue Florian, 06400 Cannes, France, salama-cannes.com

Anna

Anna is one of the newest members of the DB Hospitality Group, led by corporate chef Yiannis Kioroglou. This hotspot specializes in chic Greek cuisine, with a focus on Mezze dishes and their signature truffle pasta.

63 Bd de la Croisette, 06400 Cannes, France, restaurant-anna.com

New-York New-York

Located right in front of the Palais festival, this joint has become a bit of a local institution. Picture a blend of a classic French brasserie and an American steakhouse. This menu has something for everyone – choose from gourmet burgers to wood oven-roasted chicken and oversized salads.

1 All. de la Liberté Charles de Gaulle, 06400 Cannes, France

Bobo Bistro

Nestled in the lively Carre d’Or area, this charming French bistro serves delicious Mediterranean food. With a focus on simplicity, the menu boasts well-executed dishes (their pizza is my favourite). Given its popularity, it’s wise to make a reservation.

21 Rue du Commandant André, 06400 Cannes, France, bobobistro.com

La Mome

The place to see and be seen, especially on weekend nights. It’s got a lively party vibe in an elegant setting. Serving top-quality Mediterranean food, it’s recently expanded with a sister location in Monaco and La Mome Plage beach club on La Croisette. Highlights on the menu include an extensive raw bar and a great pasta selection.

6 Rue Florian, 06400 Cannes, France, lamomecannes.com

Sens

This spot is a great find: a cosy restaurant and wine bar with a twist. Here, talented chefs take turns leading the kitchen, crafting flavourful dishes from locally sourced produce. And there’s something really cool about the open kitchen concept, where you can witness their culinary artistry firsthand.

9 Rue d’Oran, 06400 Cannes, France, sens-restaurant.fr

Mido 

Recently opened and highly praised, this spot is led by chef Christopher Brugnaux, offering a fusion of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine known as Nikkei. Specializing in tiraditos, ceviche, and marinated skewers of meat and fish cooked over charcoal robot grills, the dishes are beautifully presented in an Asian-influenced decor.

5 Rue Florian, 06400 Cannes, France, midocannes.com

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Al Charq

This Lebanese favorite has two bustling locations in the city. Known for its relaxed atmosphere and affordable prices, it’s a go-to spot for quick snacks or take-out. They offer an extensive array of mezze and sides, with a wide selection of vegetarian options alongside delicious shawarma and kebabs.

15, 20 Rue Rouaze 17 et, 06400 Cannes, France, alcharq.com

Tuk Tuk

A hidden gem serving authentic Thai cuisine. Its location might not be the best, but the food speaks for itself. It’s a cosy spot with fantastic, friendly service.

3 Rue Latour-Maubourg, 06400 Cannes, France, tuktukcannes.com