Nestled in the heart of Provence, Arles is a city where Roman history, Van Gogh’s artistic legacy, and the wild beauty of the Camargue converge. This UNESCO World Heritage site is not just a feast for the eyes but also a vibrant culinary destination shaped by the Mediterranean and the Rhône River. For food lovers, the city offers a unique gastronomic identity that blends Provençal tradition with the briny freshness of the nearby sea.
While Arles is technically inland, its proximity to the Mediterranean coast and the brackish waters of the Camargue means seafood plays a starring role in local cuisine. Chefs here have access to an incredible bounty, from prized tellines (tiny clams) and mussels to fresh sea bass and regional bullfish. Dining on seafood in Arles is an experience deeply rooted in the surrounding landscape, often accompanied by the region’s olive oil, Camargue rice, and local wines.
Choosing where to eat in a city so rich with options can be overwhelming, especially when you are craving the freshest catch. The best establishments range from Michelin-starred temples of gastronomy to casual, sun-drenched terraces overlooking ancient stone squares. Whether you want a refined tasting menu or a simple plate of grilled sardines, Arles has a table waiting for you.
This guide cuts through the noise to highlight the most exceptional seafood dining experiences the city has to offer. We have considered not only the quality and freshness of the ingredients but also the atmosphere, service, and value for money. Each restaurant listed below brings something unique to the table, ensuring that your culinary journey through Arles is as memorable as its Roman ruins.
To be included, these restaurants must demonstrate a consistent commitment to sourcing high-quality seafood and preparing it with skill. Many of them champion local fishermen and seasonal ingredients, reflecting the true spirit of Provençal cooking. You will find a mix of historic institutions, contemporary bistros, and hidden gems favored by locals rather than just tourists.
Prepare to discover where to find the best bouillabaisse, the most delicate oysters, and the most inventive seafood plates in this ancient Provençal town. Here are the top choices for an unforgettable maritime meal in Arles.
Restaurant Côté Mer
| Address | 55 Cr Alphonse Daudet, 13990 Fontvieille |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 7:00 – 10:30 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 7:00 – 10:30 PM Friday: 7:00 – 10:30 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 7:00 – 10:30 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM |
| Phone | 04 90 43 60 01 |
Excellent experience!
The bouillabaisse is lovely, with a presentation of the fish before it is cooked, and table side service afterward. The waiter explained what the fish all were, including some interesting natural history and legends, like the spot on the St.-Pierre where the angel touched it 😉
The appetizer was stellar, but we skipped dessert since we were stuffed and out of time—you’ll want to allow 3 hours!
Remember to book 48hrs ahead, and choose the 5 fish option rather than 7 unless you are really starving. The member of our party who doesn’t like fish was able to order a steak.
Though the patio is lovely, the road noise is loud, so sitting inside may be a better choice.
The best boullabaise ever!
We Chose the Big Menu and it was the best choice. The fresh fish was presented to us before the chef brought it into the kitchen.
Everything was really fresh and we enjoyed the food!
The waiter took his time to explain everything and we appreciated this a lot!
Make a reservation ahead of time to Secure a table and to have the Big menu…
Dive into Culinary Paradise: A Bouillabaisse Affair at Côté Mer!
Nestled in the picturesque village of Fonvieille
in the South of France, Côté Mer is an absolute treasure trove.
As you step foot into Côté Mer, you’re immediately greeted by warm smiles, and fabulous service from the wonderful owners, and the unmistakable aroma of French classics, teasing your senses with anticipation.
But the true star of the show? Their legendary bouillabaisse. Bursting with flavours that transport you straight to the heart of Provence, every spoonful is a symphony of delight.
From having the freshly caught fish presented, to having it filleted in front of you before picking the pieces you want in your bowl, this traditional French stew is a culinary masterpiece crafted with passion and expertise.
If fish is not your vibe, they also cater to other dietary requirements (i.e., a beautiful cut of steak, or a delicious veggie pasta!).
But Côté Mer is more than just an exceptional dining destination—it’s an experience.
So, whether you’re a devoted foodie in search of gastronomic bliss or an adventurous soul yearning to explore the culinary wonders of the South of France, Côté Mer is an absolute must-visit!
Bon appétit!
We booked 24 hours in advance as we wanted to try the famous local spicy fish soup dish - bouillabaisse. Started with crouton with fresh olive which was very good and some oysters.
There were 4 types of fishes and it was great to mix them with the soup and crouton - it was very good and such a unique experience. Service was friendly and highly recommended!
Cosy little family restaurant with basic cuisine. Unfortunately, we couldn't taste their famous Bouillabaisse because it has to be ordered 48 hours in advance. The dishes were good albeit nothing special or exciting. Also, there is not much to choose from on their menu. The desserts were basic and uninspired. The service was friendly.
Restaurant Du Bar à l'Huître
| Address | 12 Pl. du Forum, 13200 Arles |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: Closed Thursday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM Sunday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | 04 90 97 94 38 |
Service was good. Atmosphere was good. Oysters were inexpensive and fresh, very tasty. Grilled sea bass was properly done. Seafood pasta was okay; however, it was somehow pricey. Good dining experience.
What a lovely restaurant! The weather was perfect so we dined outside on the nicely shaded terrace.
Service was great. Very friendly and helpful (with translating a few of the dishes we asked about). The recommended rose from the Camargue was perfect with lunch.
My husband enjoyed the local oysters as a starter. Even the smallest were good sized.
I had the daily special of risotto with shellfish. The risotto was creamy and full of tender shrimp and asparagus. And topped with more shrimp and big slices of Parmesan cheese. So good!
The cafe gourmand was a great end to the meal. The chocolate tart was perfect with the vanilla ice cream and I loved the cake (almond maybe) with the strawberry shortcake.
Thank you for a wonderful lunch in Arles. 🐟
The restaurant is located in a great spot in the old town of Arles and is an enjoyable place to have oysters.
However, the service was disappointing. The waiters appeared rather unfriendly and were unable to provide meaningful recommendations regarding the wines. Most concerning was that they could not identify the different types of oysters served on the platter.
We enjoyed a delicious dinner indoors. Service was excellent. I hope to return soon. 😋🐟🍷
Great seafood restaurant serving local specialties (teillades, rouille sétoise), as well as some classics (oysters, lobster, grilled fish etc). They have some indoor seating as well as a section of the Place du Forum. The food was great and the service, very attentive.
Restaurant Le St Pierre Arles : Restaurant poisson Bouillabaisse Bourride
| Address | 22 Rue Jean Lebas, 13200 Arles |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 9:30 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 9:30 PM Friday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 9:30 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 9:30 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM |
| Phone | 04 90 18 20 33 |
It is a classic and authentic French cuisine with a Mediteranean touch. The layout is v charming and quaint with a lovely terrace. The place is family run. It also feels very homey. This place also offers a great ambiance for a great date. It can get a little tricky to pay if you have a big group and don't know French.
Exceptionally family friendly place with great food. We were staying close by and decided to try. It was totally worth it. Perfect tartar made us really happy. The host was friendly and with sense of humor.
Our first real Mediterranean French experience and our first try of Escargot. We weren't disappointed, service by host Chris was welcoming, food by his partner Elaine was very good. The Tripe Sausage is a challenge if you're not used to the cuisine, I did finish it. Wines and drinks were reasonably priced.
Stopped on route at this place! Very tasty homemade like food with friendly service. Would recommend to try Salad du Chef!
Convenient as close to where we stayed. Staff very friendly, good food
La Menara
| Address | 3 Rue Voltaire, 13200 Arles |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 11:30 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 11:30 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 11:30 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 11:30 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 11:30 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 11:30 PM |
| Phone | 09 82 38 40 89 |
My family and I traveled through a couple counties Europe. This was easily the best restaurant we’ve been to in all of Europe by a long shot. Without a doubt. Nothing else compared. I had their lamb tanjine and if I end up on death row this will be the last meal I eat.
An unexpected gem in the heart of Arles!
"We stumbled upon this place by chance and it turned out to be the highlight of our trip. The atmosphere is warm and authentic, but the food is the real star. The couscous was incredibly light and fluffy, and the tajine was packed with deep, aromatic flavors. You can tell everything is homemade with love. It’s a wonderful break from the usual French bistro fare. A true hidden gem that I can’t recommend enough!"
This was a highlight meal of our trip. The bastille was so beautiful, I didn't want to cut into it. We also really appreciated the perfect service and close proximity to a parking lot. I could have happily stayed all day watching the world go by.
A gem. We were staying in Aix but returned here for couscous. It was, quite simply, the best we ever had - including Paris. Excellent mint tea. Friendly server. Now I want to go to Morocco!!
Excellent food, perfectly cooked and flavored. One of the best meals we had in France. Very friendly people working there. A++
Les bois flottés
| Address | 844 Rte de la Mer, 13129 Arles |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 9:45 PM Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 9:45 PM Thursday: 8:30 AM – 9:45 PM Friday: 8:30 AM – 9:45 PM Saturday: 8:30 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 8:30 AM – 9:45 PM |
| Phone | 07 83 33 49 60 |
Delicious lunch in a great setting! Big shady patio with a petting zoo nearby and nice decor. The food was really good and they gave very generous portion sizes. Friendly staff.
So much fun on a Saturday night. Live band playing rock music, animals and playground for the youngsters. Pizzas were amazing. Burrata pizza is a must have! Highly recommend
The food was great. And prices are fair. Beautiful terrace with friendly staff.
Excellent restaurant. Food and service are great and everyone is friendly. They will go above and beyond to help you
Highly recommended ❤️
Very nice food and was super nice to see the animals in the farm! Lamas, pigs and swans! 🙂 service was a bit chaotic because there were many people. Still a good option i’ the area.
Restaurant L'Oriel
| Address | 6 Rue du Forum, 13200 Arles |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 9:30 PM Wednesday: 7:00 – 9:30 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 9:30 PM Friday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 9:30 PM Saturday: 7:00 – 9:30 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 04 90 49 49 21 |
I had the 8 course chef's selection and it was really fantastic.
Excellent flavorful dishes that were still real food and not a chef's science experiment. 😉
I was stuffed and satisfied by the end of the evening.
The waiter was 'casual professional' and spoke excellent English. The overall atmosphere was very relaxed and comfortable, not at all stuffy or overly formal. Very pleasant outside dining terrace.
Can't recommend it highly enough! 😀
Absolutely exquisite! Exquisitely delicious multiple Michelin Star quality food with gorgeous plating and unusual ingredients combined in an amazing, photo worthy and delicious way. Terrific, attentive, bilingual service and lovely atmosphere. If you are looking for a truly great meal and experience in Arles, this is your choice.
The following has nothing to do with the restaurant's food review, but is relevant to the exceptional service.
I'm American from San Francisco Bay Area California, and unfortunately, while it was entertaining and laughable for a minute like an old-school comedy sketch 😉, there was a family from somewhere else in America (I say that because the parents were discussing retiring to California or other locations with their very loud young adult son), who came in after me and who you could hear all over the restaurant that didn't know an Entrée was a starter in France (as the word says) and said that an entrée is a main in the US but the two men ordered Entrées alone, anyway. When they first sat down, the woman pulled out her phone and rested it against a glass on the table, pointed at herself and adjusted her face, hair and scarf, meanwhile had put her brand new (I say that because her husband commented that a tag was still on it) Dior handbag on top of the table on the tablecloth and taking off her newly purchased jacket while seated so the inside neck was hanging out over the back of the chair so that you could see the brand new store tag hanging off of it and commented about it still having the tag on it. She proceeded to tell the waiter of this exquisite restaurant that she didn't like an ingredient in the sauce in the main that she wanted to order and had the chef give her a sauce from another dish instead etc. Meanwhile, the son is dominating the room with his discussion about what happens when a friend of his gets drunk.
All of that's why I said, laughable for a minute… classic comedy sketch.
Very embarrassing for the rest of us Americans and I felt bad for the server who was very gracious and attentive to them, despite it all. I do wish when people come abroad, that they would at least look things up on their phones and use the translate app before they decide on a restaurant and order.
This little story is to illustrate the exceptional service at L'Oriel.
10/10 would highly recommend. The chef and the staff were incredibly nice and understanding. My friends and I only had an hour left before we had to drive back to Montpellier to catch our flight, and the staff were so accommodating. A friend of the chef who spoke English helped us through our experience, and we all managed to get in two courses within the hour. The food is immaculate. One of the best steaks I have ever had, and the clementine dessert was so light and refreshing. Amazing!
We dined at L'Oriel on a Saturday evening in mid-May. Surprisingly the restaurant never filled, which is a shame since we had one of our best meals of our three week France vacation. Both plats were excellent as were the entrees. Service was discreet. This is a wonderful restaurant in the old city in Arles.
Absolutely lovely experience! We adored the fresh, creatively arranged, and high-quality food. The limited selection of dishes was actually appreciated. The prices were fair. The open wines could be a bit more impressive to perfectly match the food, but overall, it was a fabulous dinner experience. We can only recommend it!
Le Criquet
| Address | 21 Rue Prte de Laure, 13200 Arles |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM, 7:00 – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM, 7:00 – 9:00 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM, 7:00 – 9:00 PM Friday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM, 7:00 – 9:00 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM, 7:00 – 9:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 04 90 96 80 51 |
Fresh ingredients, delicious seafood, and the lamb was especially amazing. The owner is very warm and welcoming, and the whole restaurant has a great atmosphere. We stayed in Arles for two days and ended up having dinner here both nights.
This was easily the best restaurant meal of my life. I was blown away by every bite; the flavors were so rich and complex, yet derived from such simple ingredients that the experience was nothing short of exhilarating. To top it off, the service was so genuine and warm that I didn't want to leave. I would travel to Arles just for this place-an absolute gem!
Amazing little cafe in Arles near the arena. We walked here from our river cruise ship and it was 1 km, so it's an easy walk. Highly recommend!
I had the bourride which was easily the most delicious thing I ate during a month in France. The only downside was that it was more than I could comfortably eat, so I had to pass on dessert.
Lovely restaurant with a real traditional province cuisine. The Good side is that there are not many options but the ones they are serving (depending on the season) are really authentic and good quality. I suggest the bulls meat (traditional to Arles). Reservation necessary before going.
Restaurant la Telline
| Address | Quarter Villeneuve, 13200 Arles |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 1:30 PM, 7:30 – 9:00 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: Closed Thursday: 7:30 – 9:00 PM Friday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM, 7:30 – 9:00 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM, 7:30 – 9:00 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 1:30 PM, 7:30 – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | 04 90 97 01 75 |
Beautiful hidden gem and amazing food in Camargue! Impossible not to try the tellines! Best we’ve ever tried☀️ the service is very caring and precise and the choice of wine is also very good. Food is perfect. Definitely worth a visit, we would love to go back one day!
Best meal in Camargue. So cozy place and good homemade food.
Superb. A little gem worth seeking out if you are in the area. Very friendly owner/chef, great food start to finish. As some have said, not the cheapest but excellent value for the quality.
Absolutely worth a nice long lunch if you’re in the area. We took the bus down from Arles (very easy and inexpensive at €1 per journey). A small menu of locally sourced, high quality specialities. Very friendly staff and a beautiful setting. Well worth the price for the attention to quality. The riz de Camargue was excellent, and the house white (also local) was very good. Cash only!
The place to be in the Camargue,with local products and wines,
Bistrot populaire
| Address | 1 Rue Girard le Bleu, 13200 Arles |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: Closed Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 09 52 52 34 13 |
Stopped at Bistro Populaire for a quick bite before wrapping up a short passage at Arles. With it’s shinning staff, limited but inspired menu, and overlooking the Arles Amphitheater, it is a very strong choice amidst several restaurants around it. Mediterranean inspired take on the French bistro model at a reasonable price. Glad I discovered it and I’ll likely come again.
Since moving to Arles two years ago, Le Bistrot Populaire has become one of the restaurants that I keep going back to and never fails to deliver on delicious, authentic dishes that exude the spirit of Provence. The unbeatable view of the amphitheatre is matched by carefully conceived seasonal dishes that are lovingly presented and big on flavour, and always served with a smile. Every time anyone visits me I always bring them here as a first port of call, and my various guests and their eclectic tastes have been unanimously delighted with both the food and the setting. The menu changes regularly with the seasons, but the pistachio fondant is a perennial classic that remains the single best dessert I have tried in Arles - definitely a must-try for any pudding lovers!
Excellent cuisine, especially the superb mussels. Locals have said this restaurant has had some of the best mussels in the city for years. We can confirm they are the most delicious. And a very pleasant place, right overlooking the arenas.
Great little bistro. The food was superb and the service too right next to the colosseum.
Super love the food & hospitality! Very good value for money. Everything is just perfect
Do note that the menu changes (around once a month or so). Just come and use google translate for the latest menu.
You won’t regret coming in
L'adresse
| Address | 8 Av. Victor Hugo, 13200 Arles |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM, 6:00 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM, 6:00 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM, 6:00 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM, 6:00 – 10:00 PM Friday: 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM, 6:00 – 10:30 PM Saturday: 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM, 6:00 – 10:30 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 04 88 09 20 46 |
Very creative menu! We had to suggestions of veal tartare and the Provençal plate of poached fish and vegetables. The best dish we had was the baby clams in cream sauce. The waitress was very sweet and had a great sense of humor. When we were there the restaurant had a large party and lots of tables full but the food came out quickly. It was a pleasure- thank you so much for a great dinner in Arles
We had an entrecôte steak and grilled squid,
which were absolutely delicious. For dessert, we had pistachio/raspberry tiramisu.
Very nice restaurant, cosy atmosphere, close to the historical center. The personel is very welcoming. I had a great experience with a mojito and a perfectly cooked boneless beef rib.
Excellent! We enjoyed friendly and welcoming staff. Very high quality ingredients, we had a very good lunch.
I ordered a medium entrecôte which was so chewy that I didn’t even finish half of it and the parts that I ate I had to spit out half of it. The service was polite but didn’t really give any reaction after I told them.
Brasserie Les Ateliers - Restaurant Arles
| Address | 31 Av. Victor Hugo, 13200 Arles |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | 04 90 96 38 79 |
Had the salade de terroire and was blown away - simple dish but so refined and tasty with a mustard vinaigrette. Home-made desserts also good. Place is a bit outside the main touristy paths in Arles, at a rather busy street.
Good stop if you’re going to Luma Arles. Full of locals. Our burgers were great. Good value and fast service
This place is nice, very close to Luma. We liked the food and the host is very nice.
Very good value, tasty plat du jour. Good service, comfortable air conditioned indoor space, and nice terrace outside. Convenient location for La Luma!
Wendy and I visited this restaurant on the 8th and the 11th of September during out stay in Arles.
On both occasions the food and service were excellent.
We sat outside in comfortable seating and were provided with a pleasant lemon mosquito repellent.
Not the cheapest restaurant but the quality of the food and wine meant it was good value for money.
We were well looked after by Mona who was very friendly and provided good recommendations.
We would definitely visit again if in Arles.
le Seize
| Address | 15 Rue des Porcelets, 13200 Arles |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:15 – 2:30 PM Tuesday: 12:15 – 2:30 PM Wednesday: 12:15 – 2:30 PM Thursday: 12:15 – 1:30 PM, 7:15 – 8:30 PM Friday: 12:15 – 1:30 PM, 7:15 – 8:30 PM Saturday: Closed Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 09 82 50 65 69 |
Amazing!!! Absolutely fantastic.
Every mouthful was a delight — the food was not just delicious, but an experience in itself. We came to celebrate my mother’s 70th birthday and could not have been more pleased. Each course was flawless.
We sat outside on the street, soaking up the local atmosphere while blissfully shaded. Away from the main tourist traps, motorbikes occasionally zoomed past, but we were surrounded by locals, which only added to the charm.
We began with local olive oil and homemade bread, accompanied by a delicate bite of fish-egg mousse that melted away and hinted at more wonderful things to come. Our waitress, who spoke excellent English, recommended a superb local white wine. It paired beautifully with every dish — light yet full of flavor.
I chose the pork with figs, despite the sweltering day. The plating was stunning, a work of art. The dish was light and beautifully balanced, the pork tender and melt-in-the-mouth. Alongside it came the smokiest aubergine I’ve ever tasted — earthy, fragrant, and unforgettable.
My mother ordered the sea bass, served with a fragrant sauce and delicate little gyoza that paired perfectly with the fish.
For dessert, I had the aniseed cloud with honey ice cream made from their own hives — wow, wow, wow! It arrived like a piece of edible art, resembling white coral dotted with starfish, wobbling delightfully on the plate. Our waitress laughed at my unrestrained joy, which only grew as the “cloud” melted away. I’d love to say I savored it, but truthfully, it was all I could do not to devour it in one go and order another.
My partner in crime had the chocolate torte. We had feared it might be overly rich, but it was instead a masterpiece of balance, the deep chocolate perfectly complemented by pear and walnut.
Just when we thought the meal had ended, tiny lemon cubes of Italian meringue arrived as a palate cleanser. Bright, zesty, and delicious in their simplicity, they were the perfect finish.
The service was wonderful. Our waitress was attentive without hovering, always friendly and helpful, and at the end she even came out to give my mother a birthday hug.
It was a perfect lunch — relaxed, joyous, and delicious from start to finish. I would highly recommend Le Seize to anyone visiting the Camargue. Truly one of the best meals I’ve had in years.
Very cute, unpretentious restaurant. We were warmly welcomed by both the owner and waitress. We had a few amusing moments of communication confusion, when my French failed me! As a non-drinker, they have a fabulous selection of homemade soft drinks- truly spectacularly good.
The menu was small, which befits the size of restaurant, and allowed for each dish to shine in its own glory.
We had the 3-course option, and at €54/person, it was very reasonable for the quality. Elegant, simple flavours (which truly excellent cooking makes seemingly simple) enhanced the quality of the food. Beautifully presented. A true gem of a place.
Highly recommended.
We found this place recommended on a website and it was certainly worth it. The service was excellent; they paid close attention to our requests and the food was simply perfect. Each dish was presented with great care and, from a technical point of view, the execution was flawless. For my starter, I had crab with citrus fruits, and for my main course, pigeon with demi-glace sauce and eggplant. I’d been looking for this sort of dining experience in France, and it certainly lived up to my expectations. The price was fair given the quality of the ingredients and the execution. I highly recommend this place!
We specifically chose Le Seize because we wanted to enjoy a fine dining experience. It was recommended by the Michelin Guide.
And we were not disappointed. Le Seize in Arles is a feast for the senses.
The food is superb, beautifully presented, and tastes wonderful.
The service leaves nothing to be desired and is very personal.
It’s the complete feel-good package.
For anyone who wants to enjoy superb food and outstanding service, Le Seize is the perfect place!
The food is yummy and the chef is excellent presenting the food. The lady is nice and helpful in introducing each dish … Will definitely recommend others
Tips for Choosing the Best Seafood in Arles
Navigating a menu in a foreign country can be tricky, but knowing what to look for can elevate your dining experience from good to unforgettable. Arles has a distinct culinary rhythm dictated by the seasons and the local markets. To help you eat like a local and avoid tourist traps, keep the following practical advice in mind when selecting your seafood feast.
Look for Tellines: If you see tellines on the menu, order them. These tiny, sweet clams are a Camargue specialty and a true local delicacy. They are typically sautéed simply with garlic, parsley, and olive oil. Eating them is a ritual; locals use a pin to extract the tiny morsel of meat, and their presence on a menu is usually a strong indicator that the chef values regional authenticity.
Embrace the Local Catch: While oysters and lobsters are tempting, ask about loup de mer (Mediterranean sea bass) or daurade (sea bream). These fish are often sourced directly from the Mediterranean and grilled whole. Opting for the "catch of the day" ensures you are eating the freshest product available, often prepared with Provençal herbs and local olive oil rather than heavy sauces.
Check the Menu for Provençal Pairings: Authentic seafood restaurants in Arles will incorporate the region’s other treasures. Look for dishes served with Camargue red rice, artichokes, or a saffron-infused rouille. If the side dishes reflect the local terroir, it shows the kitchen cares about the entire plate and is deeply connected to the surrounding landscape.
Don’t Skip the Casual Terraces: You do not need a white tablecloth to eat well in Arles. Some of the best seafood experiences happen on a bustling plaza with a simple rosé and a plateau de fruits de mer (seafood platter). These casual spots often offer better value for money and a more authentic, lively atmosphere than formal dining rooms.
Book Ahead for Dinner: Arles is a popular destination, especially during the Rencontres d’Arles photography festival and the summer months. The best seafood restaurants are small, independent operations with limited seating. To secure a table at your top choice, especially for dinner on a weekend, it is essential to make a reservation several days in advance.
The culinary scene in Arles is a reflection of its history: robust, sun-soaked, and deeply connected to the water. Whether you are seated in a vaulted medieval cellar or on a terrace facing the Théâtre Antique, the combination of fresh seafood and Provençal wine is hard to beat. It is a sensory experience that connects you directly to the wild, natural beauty of the Camargue.
Ultimately, the best meal is the one that suits your mood. Take your time, linger over your meal as the locals do, and allow the flavors of the Mediterranean to transport you. In Arles, dining is not just about sustenance; it is a celebration of a landscape that has inspired artists and chefs for centuries.
