One of the best things about travelling is eating and discovering all of the culinary treasures that every area, town and village in our world has to offer. Nice, in the Provence region of France, has a gastronomy that is full of French refinement, as well as being one that bursts with character. The menus are made up of dishes that emphasise regional inflections on the classics. Based on Mediterranean influences the recipes in Nice are centred on seafood, fish, fresh vegetables and fruit; the kinds of which are dictated by the seasons. Here are our five ‘must try’ culinary delights when visiting Nice.
Socca
This chickpea pancake is served all over this region and is Nice’s answer to real street food. Baked over hot coals on big steel plates it is served hot and crispy with the insides remaining custard-like and sumptuous. The icing on the cake of the socca is an ample sprinkling of black pepper; simplicity epitomised.
Salad Niçoise
This classic Nice dish combines anchovies, shallots and fresh tuna with a Dijon mustard dressing. Traditionally all of the ingredients (except the tuna), such as cucumber, artichoke, green beans and olives were raw. Potatoes are often added in modern recipes and despite being a recent addition make the dish complete.
Pissaladiere
This is Nice’s take on pizza and is a baked dough topped with anchovies, onions and olives. The very nature of this tart-like offering is rather salty but somewhat satisfying. It combines the influence of the Italian occupation of Nice with the French touch.
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Farcis
This is a real staple in Nice and is a showcase of all things delicious. Aubergine and courgette, as well as beef tomatoes are scooped out and stuffed with fine ground meat, garlic and breadcrumbs, before being baked and served hot or cold.
Rosé Wine
You can’t go to Nice without experiencing the wonderful rosé wines. Often served as the table wine, this refreshing drink is dry, inexpensive and complementary of the food. Rosé has never been fully appreciated until it has been drunk in the cafés and restaurants of the Provence.
How to Get to Nice
Nice is a very accessible destination and whether you prefer to fly or travel by train, you will be surprised at the ease with which you can get there. Nice airport is close to the city itself and if you book your onward transfer into the city centre with us, here at Shuttle Direct, you can be at your hotel in no time at all.
Nice airport is served by many airlines that travel from a number of prime European destinations so that part of your journey is taken care of. Why not complete your journey however and let us take you from the airport to your hotel in a timely and professional manner. Here at Shuttle Direct we offer private or shared transfers and aim to provide a competitively priced service that offers every customer flexibility and convenience.
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Where to Stay
Hotel de France – Our budget option in Nice comes in the guise of Hotel de France. Located right in the heart of the city, this hotel is only a short walk from the beach. Rooms here are all air conditioned and there is free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel. Every room has been elegantly renovated and has all of the facilities expected of a budget accommodation option. Only 10 minutes from the station, this hotel provides an excellent low cost option.
Royal Hotel – If you are looking to go a little more upmarket on your stay in Nice then the Royal Hotel is a great option. This historic building is close to the old town of Nice and offers guests lovely rooms that are fully air conditioned, beautifully decorated and spacious. All have TV and en suite facilities and some have a balcony too. The hotel has a bar on the terrace and a buffet breakfast is served in the restaurant, which also serves evening meals that are both authentic and traditional. There is free Wi-Fi throughout and a 24-hour reception.
Hotel Negresco – Hotel Negresco is our pick of the high-end accommodation options. Overlooking the beach, this building that dates back to the early 20th century houses art that spans five centuries. Every room is beautifully furnished with a four-poster bed, air conditioning and pieces of period furniture. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel and every morning La Rotonde restaurant serves a buffet breakfast. There is a bar and an à la carte restaurant too. The hotel houses a fitness centre and for an extra cost you can make use of the private access to Neptune Beach.
