Marseille specialties

Forget the sights for a moment! This walk down the Boulevard de la Corderie is the perfect opportunity to talk about the mouthwatering food scene of Marseille and the many delicious specialties that the city has to offer. Let’s dive in, starting with the iconic “bouillabaisse”, a must-try during your visit. There are many different takes on this recipe nowadays, but the classic version is a simple yet flavorful fish soup with crusty garlic bread and potatoes on the side. Get this – the name of the dish actually refers to the way you cook it. It’s “bouillabaisse”, so “bouillir” and “baisser”; in simple English, you’d basically gotta boil the broth, then lower the heat so the fish doesn’t overcook. It started out as a humble fisherman’s dish; you see, they’d make it with their leftover catch, and believe it or not, some say the Greeks were making it here as far back as 2,000 years ago! It’s a dish that has stood the test of time! Then there’s the “soupe au pistou”, yet another typical dish of the region, the “daube provençal”, a meat ragu marinated in red wine, and the “suspions”, small bits of calamari seasoned with garlic and served with a sauce or olive oil. Don’t miss out on those! Now on to appetizers! Try the famous “tapenade” or the “aïoli” sauce and get your dipping game on! Needless to say, Marseille is a seafood heaven! Prepare for some deliciousness! Need a sugar fix? Be sure to try the “navettes”, small boat-shaped cookies infused with orange blossom water; they’re traditionally prepared during Candlemas instead of crepes. You can also try some “chichis” or “chichis frégis” as the locals call them. They’re a lighter and airier version of churros, perfect with a sprinkle of sugar, chocolate spread, or other sweet toppings. Consider this a starter guide to Marseille’s incredible food scene. You’re in for a treat! Of course, no foodie trip to Marseille is complete without trying the famous Pastis, or Pastaga as the locals call it.  Invented by Paul Ricard in 1930, this anise-flavored drink is made with 90° alcohol. Mix one part pastis with five parts water, and you’ve got a refreshing apéritif perfect for every season! And what better way to learn more about this drink than to visit the Maison du Pastis, located at the Old Port. Fun fact: even though everyone thinks it’s a southern thing, Pastis is actually more popular in the north of France. Just remember to drink responsibly!