The cuisine of Provence is among the most popular and beloved in the world. In many ways, it’s responsible for the modern “Mediterranean diet” that is wildly popular these days. Centered around seasonal and local fresh ingredients, Provençal cuisine is known for its rustic simplicity.

Here are some suggestions of what to eat and where to dine when in Provence.

Must-have Provençal dishes

  • Bouillabaisse: The epitome of Provençal cooking. Often consists of several varieties of fish, tomatoes, saffron and white wine, this delicious fish stew is cooked gently in order to bring out the flavour of each ingredient.
  • Ratatouille: This colourful, meltingly soft vegetable stew is another iconic dish from Provence. To preserve the individuality of each vegetable, it is recommended that they are cooked separately before being served together.
  • Soupe au Pistou: Vegetable and bean soup garnished with ‘pistou’ (basil dressing)
  • Salade Niçoise
  • Boeuf à la Gordienne
  • Loup de Mer
  • Artichauts à la Barigoule
  • Daube: A favourite in winter. This hearty stew consists of slowly braised beef in wine, vegetables and Provençal herbs. Served with polenta or gnocchi.
  • Pissaladiere: Flatbread topped with caramelised onion and anchovy.


Traditional market fares

Markets have a way of drawing in the crowds—and for good reason. When you go to a market, you can see for yourself how people are still connected with the land and grow their own food. It’s no different in Provence. Here are some local produce to look out for:

  • Tapenade
  • Fleur de sel de Camargue
  • Olives de Provence
  • Herbes de Provence
  • Provence honey
  • Calisson: This traditional sweet treat is made of candied fruit, ground almonds and royal icing.
  • Olive oil
  • Pêche de Vigne: Get this special type of peach fresh in August or in jam/spread form.

Markets in Provence

Aix-en-Provence

Farmers market

Place Richelme

Daily: 8am-1pm

Fruit and vegetable market

Place des Precheurs

Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday: 8am-1pm

Avignon

Les Halles

Tuesday-Friday: 6am-1:30pm

Saturday & Sunday: 6am-2pm

Monday: Closed

Arles

Émile Combes Boulevard

Wednesday: approximately 8am-1pm

Boulevard des Lices to Boulevard Clemenceau

Saturday: approximately 8am-1pm

Nîmes

Les Halles de Nîmes

Monday – Saturday: 7am-1pm

Sunday: 7am-1:30pm

Roussillon

Thursday: approximately 8am-1pm


Michelin-star restaurants

1 Michelin-star


2 Michelin-stars

La Bastide de Capelongue

550 Chemin des Cabanes

84480 Bonnieux, FR

+33 (0)4 79 33 01 04

Villa Madie

Avenue de Revestel

13260 Cassis, FR

04 96 18 00 00


3 Michelin-stars

Petit Nice Passédat

Anse de Maldormé

13007 Marseille, FR

+33 (0)4 91 592 592

La Vague d’Or

Plage de la Bouillabaisse

83990 Saint-Tropez, FR

+ 33 (0)4 94 55 91 00

Hôtel et Spa du Castellet

3001, Hauts du Camp

83330 Le Castellet, FR

+33 4 94 98 37 77


Looking to plan a trip to Provence? Head to FranceToday.com for more stories to inspire your Lavender Country getaway.

2 COMMENTS

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