From Navettes to Espresso: A Foodie’s Guide to Marseille’s Best Coffee Shops and Bakeries
Marseille. A city that’s as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the tastebuds. And let’s be honest, sometimes you need a break from the bouillabaisse and the pastis. That’s where Marseille’s coffee shops and bakeries come in, offering a delightful escape into a world of sweet treats and strong brews. Forget the generic chains; we’re on a quest for the authentic, the charming, and the downright delicious.
The Navette Tradition: A Taste of Marseille’s History
Let’s start with a Marseille icon: the navette. These boat-shaped biscuits, flavoured with orange blossom, are a local specialty. And there’s one place you simply must visit to experience them:
Four des Navettes is the oldest bakery in Marseille, established in 1781. Stepping inside is like stepping back in time. The aroma of freshly baked navettes fills the air, and the traditional ovens are a sight to behold. It’s a proper Marseille institution, and their navettes are legendary.
But there are other bakeries worth exploring for a taste of local tradition.
La Cure Gourmande offers a range of traditional Provençal sweets, including navettes, calissons (almond-shaped candies), and nougat. Their shops are beautifully decorated, creating a charming atmosphere.
Modern Brews and Artistic Spaces
Marseille’s coffee scene is also evolving, with a growing number of cafes offering expertly brewed espresso and a range of specialty coffee drinks.
Café Longchamp is a popular spot, known for its excellent coffee and its location near the Palais Longchamp. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy a coffee after visiting the palace.
Deep Coffee Shop is a trendy cafe, offering a range of specialty coffees and a stylish atmosphere. They also have a selection of homemade cakes and pastries.
For a cafe with an artistic vibe, check out Ourea. This cafe and art gallery, located in the Cours Julien district, showcases local artists’ work and serves excellent coffee.
MARSEILLE’S CAFES AND BAKERIES ARE MORE THAN JUST PLACES TO EAT; THEY’RE WINDOWS INTO THE CITY’S SOUL, WHERE TRADITION AND FLAVOUR INTERTWINE.
Hidden Gems and Local Haunts
Beyond the well-known spots, Marseille hides a wealth of charming cafes and bakeries, waiting to be discovered.
Pain Pan is a small bakery in the Vauban district, known for its artisanal bread and pastries. Their croissants are particularly delicious.
Emki Pop is a popular spot for gourmet popsicles. They offer a range of creative and refreshing flavours, perfect for a hot day.
La Maison des Biscuits is a charming biscuit shop, offering a range of traditional and modern biscuits and cookies.
If you’re looking for a cafe with a view, head to La Caravelle. This cafe, located near the Vieux-Port, offers stunning views of the harbour.
For a taste of North African pastries, explore the shops in the Noailles district. You’ll find a range of delicious treats, such as baklava and makroud. If you’re also exploring Marseille’s wider culinary scene, you might want to read my article A Food Tour of Marseille: Savouring the City’s Local Flavours.
A Taste of Marseille: Exploring the City’s Coffee and Bakery Culture
Marseille’s coffee shops and bakeries offer a delightful journey through the city’s diverse culture and culinary traditions. From the iconic navettes to the expertly brewed espresso, there’s a taste of Marseille to satisfy every craving. Exploring these establishments is an essential part of experiencing the city, a chance to connect with its people, to savour the flavours of Provence, and to create lasting memories, one sweet bite and strong sip at a time.
