Menton, the pastel-hued jewel of the French Riviera, is often associated with elegance, citrus groves, and a certain air of exclusivity. Nestled against the Italian border, the town offers a unique blend of French refinement and Italian dolce vita. However, experiencing the culinary delights of this Mediterranean paradise doesn’t require a bottomless wallet or a Michelin-star budget.
While Menton certainly has its fair share of upscale dining rooms with panoramic sea views, the true heart of its cuisine beats in the narrow, colorful streets of the old town and the bustling market halls. Here, the focus is on honest ingredients, traditional recipes, and generous hospitality. The proximity to Italy means that pizza, fresh pasta, and creamy gelato are just as integral to the local food scene as Salade Niçoise and Socca.
Finding a meal that is both delicious and affordable is entirely possible if you know where to look. The secret lies in stepping away from the main tourist drag along the waterfront and venturing into the residential neighborhoods and pedestrian lanes. It is in these spots that you will find the trattorias and bistros where locals gather for their daily lunches and casual dinners.
This guide is designed to help you navigate the budget-friendly side of Menton’s gastronomy. We have focused on establishments that offer exceptional value for money without compromising on the quality of the produce or the authenticity of the flavors. Whether you are craving a wood-fired pizza, a plate of freshly made ravioli, or a savory crêpe, there is a spot here for you.
We have curated a list that prioritizes generous portions, fair pricing, and that warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes dining in the South of France so memorable. These are the places where you can linger over a carafe of house wine, soak in the local ambiance, and enjoy a meal that tastes like it was made in a nonna’s kitchen.
From hidden terraces to family-run storefronts, prepare to discover that eating well in Menton can be both a culinary highlight and a bargain. Here is our selection of the best affordable spots that prove you don’t need to spend a fortune to eat like royalty on the Riviera.
Mont Goût
| Address | 4 Rue Prato, 06500 Menton |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 5:30 – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 5:30 – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 5:30 – 9:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 5:30 – 9:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 5:30 – 9:00 PM Saturday: Closed Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 04 93 41 86 86 |
I went with friends and family 2 years in a row to this restaurant whilst on holidays and it doesn't disappoint. Personnel and owner are very friendly and available for any question you may have.
Food is delicious ! 😋
You can definitely head straight to this one with closed eyes 🤩🇱🇧
Such a lucky find in Menton! If you’re tired of the usual tourist traps, go to Mont Goût. The food tastes so fresh, you can tell it’s all homemade.
The best part, though, was the host. He was incredibly sweet and didn't blink when I asked about animal-free options; he just put together a vegan version of the Lebanese platter for me on the spot. It was so delicious and filling. I really appreciate it when a place actually puts effort into dietary requests instead of just offering a side salad.
Super warm vibes and great prices, definitely check them out. I will be back for sure!
One of the best meals I’ve ever had. Very fresh and delicious. Great value and service was welcoming and kind. If you’re nearby you must go!
had the BEST chicken and prawns here. everything tasted so fresh and was prepared on the spot. can tell the food is homemade! the owner is really lovely as well. so glad to find this local spot in menton.
In a town with plenty of good Italian restaurants this Lebanese restaurant is a welcome change. The chef/owner is a gracious host serving excellent food. The food is freshly prepared, with the amount of walk in people buying take aways plus the full tables in the small seating area there is a need to prepare the foods regularly.
There were two of us, at the chef's suggestion we shared a Lebanese platter, and a viande (meat) plat du jour. Each item was delicious, and there were many delicious choices between the two mains. The bottle of rosé was perfectly chilled, served in quality wine glasses.
A large tour group of youngsters on a daily stipend arrived while we were eating. Our host helped explain the choices, the vegan and other options that were requested. The group all left happy with their meals.
I enjoyed every morsel I ate. The food was sublime, filling but not heavy. My wife and I left very satisfied.
The host is a great man serving good food at a very reasonable price.
L'Entre II
| Address | 2 Av. Boyer, 06500 Menton |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM, 6:00 – 9:30 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 2:30 PM, 6:00 – 9:30 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 04 93 51 70 42 |
We came here for lunch. I really enjoyed the gnocchi with truffle and floating island desert. Both are delicious. I advise to book ahead especially for the Meton Lemon Festival in February.
We tried Entree II last week on a holiday in Menton. We were both pleasantly impressed. The food was top quality and the presentation was really good. The lady serving us was very nice and helpful. My partner became very quickly envious of my dish choice (even though his was great too) so we decided to go again another day. Unfortunately we didn't book and couldn't get in. So obviously a very well liked, popular place and I am not surprised.
I recommend it.
Great team and amazing restaurant. And biggest beef tartar in my life. Thank you
A quiet south west facing terrace, set back from the street and a smart modern interior. Big choice of Franco/italian foods and wines. Beer on ‘tap’. Friendly service. Dog friendly.
Wine and pasta is good
The service is good as well
Tiramisu also good
But next time will try beef tartare or other dishes
Le Cosy
| Address | 5 Rue Edouard Sicardi, Pl. Fornari, 06500 Menton |
|---|---|
| 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: Closed Friday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | 04 93 35 52 17 |
It was a great experience!
We‘ve had our lunch here and they were so kind.
The food was great and the ladies very kind: the kids received a bracelet and I‘ve received a flower for mother day.
I recommend the place.
For the past 15 years, we have visited Le Cosy several times a year whenever we are in Menton. Originally rooted in traditional French cuisine – the classic soupe de poisson is still on the menu – it is now complemented by a selection of Italian dishes. Everything is prepared with a modern touch, always fresh and excellently executed.
The wine selection is carefully curated. The delicious amuse-bouche is always a highlight and perfectly reflects the restaurant’s warm hospitality. Offers good value for money
The chef clearly masters his craft, and the service has remained consistently friendly, attentive, and professional over the years. Last year, the restaurant also received a tasteful refresh: the terrace now features stylish lounge furniture with comfortable seating.
For us, there is hardly anything nicer than sitting here in the sun at the end of the year, enjoying a lovely lunch.
A clear recommendation
It was our last meal in Menton. Food was good. The service was rude. We ordered an entree to share and two mains. We did expect the entree to come first instead of everything coming together on the table.
Stopped here for dinner on our last night in Menton, had the mussels which were the best i had in the south of france. My wife had the beef and also loved it. Would come again
From the warm, hospitable welcome to the great coffee at the end: everything was perfect. The terrace is very cozy (with nice shady spots), the food is delicious and fresh, and even your drink is served in a fun, brightly decorated glass. You instantly want these brand-new owners to succeed. Highly recommended!
Les Cotes de Menton
| Address | 59bis Prte de France, 06500 Menton |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 6:30 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 6:30 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 6:30 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 6:30 – 10:00 PM Friday: 6:30 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 6:30 – 10:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 6:30 – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | 04 93 51 20 84 |
What a great place - little bus ride from Menton (but beautiful moonlit walk back along the promenade).
Small menu - but then you know its done right - wife had lamb rack with truffle pasta with pomegranite - she loved it!! I had the Angus entrecote cooked to perfection served on a warm plate (tres importante) with some great frites (maybe too many) and a local herb sauce - was brilliant.
You have to try the lemon tiramasu - just glorious and of course the standard cognac and double espresso.
The steak and lamb a little expensive but well worth the spoil.
Hugely friendly and efficient serveuse who topped the evening with a smile.
A lovely place to eat. Great food. Lovely atmosphere. Very reasonably priced. Hostess was warm, friendly and made sure everyone felt special. On her own. Went twice in the week there it was that good though booking recommended.
Great steaks and lemon pie with friendly staff. Even the chef came to our table to check if everything was fine!
The steak and the hamburger was really good, totally recommend to try this place .
What a great little place. We didn’t book but were fortunately early enough to get one of the few remaining tables. As the restaurant filled, there was a lovely buzz of people enjoying their evening. The service was excellent with everyone attended to by one person who remained friendly and attentive despite being on the go non stop. The food was delicious and great value. We’re hoping to squeeze another visit in during our stay but will definitely reserve a table first.
Casa Dali
| Address | 14 Rue Partouneaux, 06500 Menton |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM Tuesday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 6:00 – 9:30 PM Wednesday: Closed Thursday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 6:00 – 9:30 PM Friday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 6:00 – 9:30 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 6:00 – 9:30 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 09 82 68 04 62 |
A great find during our visit to Menton! The portions were generous and everything was well prepared. A very special mention to the cheesecake — it was on another level, absolutely delicious. The person who served us was also incredibly kind. Overall, a really lovely experience 🙂
Casa Dali serves honest and genuinely Mediterranean food, full of warmth and flavour. The place is cosy and welcoming, with a relaxed atmosphere that makes you want to stay. The hostess is sweet and attentive, making sure everyone feels comfortable and well fed. A charming and heartfelt dining experience.
We were very pleased with our meals here. the portion sizes are very generous and flavours are amazing. Staff were very kind and helpful.
My wife and I had an amazing Mediterranean lunch here our first day in Menton! The atmosphere is comfortable with incredible staff that made us feel very welcome. Their location is also ideal if you are taking the train in to Menton as it is an easy and brief walk. All the food was incredibly fresh and very flavorful. Next time we are in Menton it is a must stop.
The best pita and hummus I’ve ever had! The hummus was so creamy and flavourful and it went perfectly with the warm, slightly crispy pita bread. The feta salad, chicken wrap and sweet potato fries were all delicious as well with the perfect balance of flavours.
Le 31
| Address | 31 Quai Bonaparte, 06500 Menton |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 6:30 – 10:30 PM Tuesday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 6:30 – 11:30 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 6:30 – 10:30 PM Thursday: Closed Friday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 6:30 – 10:30 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 6:30 – 10:30 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 6:30 – 10:30 PM |
| Phone | 06 40 65 07 92 |
Great atmosphere right by the boulevard. The staff were super friendly and we had a really nice chat with them during the lunch. Food was very nice. Go for the desserts for sure, homemade and extremely tasty. We had the lemon tart and moelleux au chocolat and it was amazing.
My favorite dinner in the French Riviera! Pasta is amazingggg. Fantastic service by Amar- Absolutely wonderful and attentive. Great ambiance and music. Also prices worth the food. Would love to visit again! Highly recommend on your stop to Menton. Also the lemon spritz was great! Thanks so much Amar!
Went here for a meal first night in Menton. Service was very good and the guy serving us did a great job with being professional and funny. The food itself was great, loads of flavor and the cocktails where made perfect! Highly recommend this place for a nice sea view dinner. 🥂
Amazing food! The seafood pasta was perfect, full of flavor and cooked just right. My boyfriend ordered the burger and he loved it as well.
The staff were very friendly and accommodating. We arrived without a reservation, and they still made space for us, which we really appreciated.
We had a great experience and would definitely come back!
The food and staff were so fantastic that we came back 2 nights in a row
Very reasonable cost and very generous portions
If we had friends staying in Menton we would recommend this place 😍
Le Stanley
| Address | 6 Pl. du Cap, 06500 Menton |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 6:00 – 10:30 PM Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 6:00 – 10:30 PM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 6:00 – 10:30 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 6:00 – 10:30 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 6:00 – 10:30 PM Saturday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 6:00 – 10:30 PM Sunday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 6:00 – 10:30 PM |
| Phone | 04 93 41 37 22 |
totally not recommend this restaurant. The service was terrible, they were ripping off tourists, the food was mediocre, and the ambiance was just average. During our 15-day trip to the South of France, we ate at 20 restaurants, and this was the most expensive and worst experience we had. We didn't want to give a bad review; every business is struggling. But given how rude they were, we had to tell the truth. We chose this restaurant because other restaurants were crowded at lunchtime, while this one was less packed, and the Google rating seemed acceptable. Upon entering, we were the only customers seated indoors. Our group of seven was crammed into three small tables, which was extremely cramped. We asked for an extra table, but were refused. After we sat down, the waiter (pictured in photo 2) was very impatient, constantly rushing us and pressuring us to order. We wanted salad, but it wasn't on the menu. He offered to make us two small vegan mixed salads, but when we paid the bill, we found that each salad cost €23. At other restaurants, it would have cost less than €10. We ordered a cappuccino, but the bill listed it as a beef carpaccio. When we disputed the bill, the staff immediately admitted it was a mistake. However, his expression and attitude clearly indicated he was lying, trying to get away with it since we were tourists. At the end, they even gave us their shop's QR code, asking us to leave a 5-star review. We don't want to give any bad reviews, but after eating at 20 restaurants, this one clearly had a problematic attitude, and our experience was terrible. We don't recommend eating at this restaurant.
The food was some of the best tasting on our 2 week trip through Italy and France. The spaghetti with seafood is one of the bedt I have ever had. It was creamy and flavorful. My wife loved her veal dish. Even the prosecco was grest.
The waiter was very friendly, funny, and attentive.
Can’t believe I finished my pasta 🍝😭🤣 I had to skip breakfast the next day because I still full lol - i mean it was yummy ! Very generous on the seafood and very friendly staff too 🙂
Actually went here because this is probably the only place in Menton that accepts Cheques Vacances Connect. But I didn’t regret coming.
Foods were so fresh. Staffs were friendly even though the restaurant was packed.
They let me dine in by myself. Which is sometimes rare if the restaurant is full. Thanks will come back.
a cute small square to unwind. Delicious Aperol & Limoncello Spritz and even better Moules (the best I’ve had). Topped with great Service by Patrick! Merci 🙏🏼🍋💛
Le P'tit Resto
| Address | 19 Av. de la Madone, 06500 Menton |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: Closed Thursday: Closed Friday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | 04 93 41 37 07 |
Very authentic. Food is really very delicious. I feel very cozy and warm. Highly recommended for those who really want to have delicious food and cozy authentic environment. And the lady who serve us is always smiling and saying thank you although she is alone serving all other customers. 5 stars customers service and food
Absolutely fantastic meal with great food. Filled with locals. Please don’t be put off by the decor. It’s very cute. Great value too.
We had such a lovely meal at Le P’tit Resto. It has a wonderful local French feel, and you can really tell it’s a family-run place. The mother, who is also the owner, takes care of the guests, while her son works in the kitchen, which gives the restaurant such a warm and authentic atmosphere.
The vibe is incredibly cute and welcoming, and the food was absolutely amazing. Everything tasted fresh, homemade, and full of flavor. The service was fantastic as well—friendly, attentive, and surprisingly quick without ever feeling rushed.
This was one of our favorite dining experiences in Menton. If you’re looking for delicious food, genuine hospitality, and a cozy local spot, Le P’tit Resto is definitely worth a visit! 😊😁😁👌🏻👌🏻
The best salmon I've ever tasted! Compliments to the chef!
Small family-run restaurant in Menton. The son cooks, his father who has a background from one of Monaco’s well-known restaurants still helps out.
The food was excellent. Homemade fish soup full of flavour, a beautifully cooked duck breast with honey and thyme, and a beef bourguignon that had clearly been going for hours. We finished with ice cream and crème brûlée, both great.
Relaxed atmosphere, lots of regulars, and the family came over for a chat during the evening. Genuine and unpretentious. We would love to come back!
Book ahead, it fills up fast.
L'Endroit
| Address | 4 Quai Gordon Bennet, 06500 Menton |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 12:30 AM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: Closed Thursday: 7:00 AM – 12:30 AM Friday: 7:00 AM – 12:30 AM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 12:30 AM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 12:30 AM |
| Phone | 04 93 57 47 31 |
Stopped here along the waterfront in Menton for a bite and a drink. Prices in all these heavily touristed areas tend to be somewhat inflated but thankfully this restaurant made up for it with decent portion sizes and yummy food. The fries were particularly tasty, and they were generous with them! There was some confusion in that I thought I was getting a chicken burger rather than a beef burger, but it was no trouble as the burger was great. The only downside was that the outside seating area was mixed smoking and non smoking, with two full tables of four smokers on either side of us--but this was more bad luck on our part than any fault of the restaurant. Overall, a good spot for a meal on the waterfront in Menton.
A great restaurant with friendly & helpful staff & great food and wine overlooking the Marina - we visited twice & enjoyed both meals - croque monsieur, cheeseburger & deserts & steak & fries & tiramisu - good beer & wine
We were here by mistake, but we will definitely come back! Was a win! The lunch menu is quite fair on the price and the food. Definitely fresh… we end up satisfied…. the view and environment of this place is amazing I mean was a good deal.
Just be aware that there’s a lot of flies around since is an open area but not the restaurants fault.
Everything was amazing, I came here on a girl trip and the service was phenomenal! I highly recommend. The portions were enormous and absolutely splendid. A big shoutout to our waiter Fred!! He really enhanced our experience with his amazing energy! Definitely pop by
Excellent food!
Great atmosphere!
Great location!
Fleur De Sel
| Address | 2 Rue du Vieux Collège, 06500 Menton |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 6:30 – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 6:30 – 9:00 PM Wednesday: Closed Thursday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 6:30 – 9:00 PM Friday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 6:30 – 9:00 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 7:00 – 10:30 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 6:30 – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | 04 93 44 87 34 |
Fleur del Sel is a nice spot if you’re in the mood for crêpes and something casual. The setting is pleasant and relaxed, making it an easy place to stop by while exploring the area.
The crêpes are good overall—well-made and with a decent variety of fillings. Some combinations stand out more than others, but everything feels fresh and satisfying enough.
Service is friendly, the staff are polite and make you feel welcome.
All in all, it’s a solid choice for a laid-back meal in Menton.
Hands down the best crepes in Menton. Multiple incredible options and great taste. It could take time to get served but it’s worth the wait for sure.
Very disappointing experience. We came for galettes and crêpes and ended up waiting approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes before being served.
No apology or explanation was offered for the delay. A simple acknowledgment would have made a big difference.
The food was decent, but the extremely slow service and lack of customer care overshadowed the entire experience. Unfortunately, I cannot recommend this place based on the service we received.
Do not leave Menton without having crepes at Fleur de Sel! Be ready for a bit of a wait but it is so worth it because everything is homemade and delicious. The Poulet Parisienne was perfect and the side salad consisted of a lovely variety of fresh greens and tasty dressing. My husband enjoyed the classic ham and cheese. The dessert crepes are extra special! You can’t go wrong with the Mentonaise, if you love lemons!
The coffee was also very good.
Order crepe with banana and chocolate & whipped cream . But when we sit down & there is no mention of no cover charge per person. After when we pay for bill, they charge $5 per pax x 3 person. Be careful when u seat in a group without ordering things. It really extortion.
Le bistrot des jardins
| Address | 14 Av. Boyer, 06500 Menton |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 9:30 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 9:30 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 9:30 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 9:30 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 9:30 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM |
| Phone | 04 93 28 28 09 |
Nice relaxing ambiance. In the center of Menton and yet quiet and very relaxing once you enter. So-so service. The food arrived on time and we were pleased.
We enjoyed our meal especially the sauce of the tuna. Ratatouille wasn’t great though. The coffee was super strong!
Amazing food best dinner we had in Menton. Garden was charming lots of locals which is the best sign of a good restaurant. Would recommend the food the setting and the services. Outside is a must on a beautiful summer night!
Delicious food! Atmosphere overall was pretty good and we appreciate that our server was very kind to us though we didn't feel super welcomed by all of the staff. The garden is very pretty, we were there in the middle of the day so for us it was warm with no breeze, but when the weather is better I'm sure it's fantastic!
This was our best dinner during our visit by far. The razor clams were delicate and delicious and the asparagus/ricotta ravioli with pea/mint sauce devine. We got the 3 course meal and thoroughly enjoyed the profiteroles and brioche with caramel ice cream.
Being a local person, I can only recommend this spot, compared to many others !
Very high quality food and good service and nice little green “îlot” in the nearby of the heart of Menton. I had recently 2 lunches and was very satisfied. Price is probably a bit higher than many others proposing only 🫤traditional Italian specialties (pizzas, spaghettis, parmigianas, etc.) which I like too, but for a change and to get this level of quality of products, taste and a French touch of cooking , this restaurant does worth it !
Côté Bistrot
| Address | 1 Rue Longue, 06500 Menton |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 6:00 – 9:30 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 6:00 – 9:30 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 6:00 – 9:30 PM Friday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 6:00 – 9:30 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 6:00 – 9:30 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 6:00 – 9:30 PM |
| Phone | 04 93 86 20 04 |
very cute location and atmosphere, the dishes were delicious and good quality! one thing that I would say is that the pasta was a bit cold while the zucchini one was boiling hot but otherwise everything was perfect❣️ also might be worth to make a reservation if you want to be sure to get in!
Amazing Food,and the Unique Lemon Ice cream with vodka is nice. You must try! 💗 specially The Server’s are very welcoming.
Highly recommend restaurant. Very nice food and not just tourist menus. Great service too. Cozy and quiet.
This little bistro tucked away in the old town was really, really nice. I went in the evening around 8:30pm and I waited for about 10 minutes for a table. The atmosphere is peaceful and charming and the food was delicious. The waitress spoke French, Italian and English. I will be coming back a few more times.
A beautiful place. Gorgeous courtyard terrace under the church tower. Food was excellent and great value. Staff were lovely and helpful. The fish, sea bass and salmon, were superb. Pasta ravioli was delicious and the lamb skewers super. Ate here twice in the week it was that good. Will definitely return. Highly recommended. Patrice.
Chez Lina
| Address | 1 Trav. du Bastion, 06500 Menton |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: Closed Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 06 30 19 75 58 |
Lady boss was so sweet and hospitable to all the customers. It's my first time in Menton and the pinsa jambon was very delicious. The cheeseburger that the girls at the next table ordered was also a good-sized portion. Overall it was a lovely dining experience and I highly recommend it. Thank you for being absolutely lovely 🌹
So good and the server was so nice 🙂 It’s a rare thing to see here in france - good service and good food. We got the spicy pinsa with jalapeños, really tasty!!
The place is not fancy and does not have a large menu but they surprised us with the quality of the food and friendly service. The chicken ceaser salad my wife had was great and so was their pizza.
What can I say… it was absolutely refreshing to eat at a place that has amazing service !! The hostess was so sweet and energetic with us. It really felt like we’ve locals here !! The pizza was as good as the service.
Small details matter: She noticed that my unopened coke was sitting in the heat for too long so she came over and switched it up for me with a nice cold one without me asking ! Love it !
Lovely staff, great service, and amazing pizza! It was so delicious that I forgot to take a picture before we started eating! 🥰
Grillades Menton 2
| Address | 22 terre Plein Garavan, 06500 Menton |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Friday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | 07 46 26 67 90 |
The owner is a kind and welcoming man, just like his staff. Finally a place with great grilled meat in the Port of Garavan. It was a pleasure to come back and I will be back.
Really delivered on the Mediteranean food part, if not for everyone speaking french I would have thought to be at a greek tavern, food was also great with quite the portion for a very resonable price.
It will definetly be my go to place when I visit again!
Top
Great food, fresh and home made. Cosy location on the port and the staff was very welcoming and sweet. Highly recommend!
The food from here is amazing! So well priced and the taste is exceptional. The owner is such a sweet guy and you’d be sorry to miss this on your visit!!
Don Vincenzo
| Address | 41 Quai Bonaparte, 06500 Menton |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 – 4:00 PM, 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 12:00 – 4:00 PM, 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 12:00 – 4:00 PM, 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 12:00 – 4:00 PM, 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM Friday: 12:00 – 4:00 PM, 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 12:00 – 4:00 PM, 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 12:00 – 4:00 PM, 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM |
| Phone | 04 93 97 80 31 |
A very welcoming and hospitable restaurant. The food is great and fresh, and the staff are all extremely kind. We had a great time there.
Best pizza in Menton, friendly staff and great atmosphere. It’s been a while since I’ve had pizza this good. Highly recommended, don’t miss visiting this amazing place
The pasta—specifically the bolognese and carbonara—was absolutely delicious and authentic. Great atmosphere and the perfect spot to eat if you're traveling through the area. Highly recommend!
The pizzas were incredibly good and also huge! I had the “chevre” with goat cheese, nuts and honey and honestly it was so different and tasty, absolute perfection. On top of that the staff were extremely nice and felt like being at an Italian home! Thanks we loved it
Great little restaurant. Delicious pizza, very kind and attentive owner, plus a nice view. A lovely stop in Menton😻
Smart Tips for Eating Out on a Budget in Menton
To truly maximize your dining budget in this border town, adopting a few local habits can make a significant difference. The French and Italian dining cultures here offer specific windows of opportunity for the savvy traveler. Understanding these nuances will not only save you money but also enhance the authenticity of your culinary experience.
Embrace the "Formule" at Lunchtime: If you want to experience the best cooking at the lowest possible price, make lunch your main meal of the day. Most restaurants offer a "Formule du Midi" (lunch set menu) that typically includes a starter and a main course, or a main course and a dessert, for a fixed price that is often half of what you would pay for dinner. This is the most cost-effective way to try high-quality, home-style cooking.
Cross the Border Mentality: Menton’s prices are heavily influenced by its proximity to Italy. Generally, pizzerias and trattorias specializing in Italian cuisine offer the most generous portion sizes for the lowest price points. Pasta dishes and wood-fired pizzas are almost always the most filling and budget-friendly options on any menu, providing high caloric value for a low monetary cost.
Beware the "Sea View" Premium: It is a simple rule of economics in the Riviera: you pay for the view. Restaurants located directly on the promenade or with a direct line of sight to the Mediterranean often charge a premium for the location. By walking just one or two streets inland, you can often find the exact same quality of food for 20% to 30% less.
Picnic like a Local: Menton has a fantastic covered market (Marché des Halles) and regular outdoor produce markets. Take advantage of the fresh local produce, olives, cheeses, and freshly baked fougasse bread to assemble a world-class picnic. Eating on a bench overlooking the sea or in the gardens of the Palais Carnolès is not only incredibly cheap but arguably one of the most romantic dining experiences in town.
Skip the Sodas and Soft Drinks: In France, beverages are often the most inflated items on a bill. A bottle of still water or a soda can cost as much as a glass of house wine or a coffee. Opt for "une carafe d’eau" (tap water), which is free and safe to drink in all restaurants, and save your drink budget for a local glass of rosé if you wish to indulge.
Look for the "Plat du Jour": Almost every bistro will have a daily special written on a chalkboard. This dish is usually made with whatever the chef found fresh at the market that morning. It is almost always cheaper than the regular menu items because the ingredients are seasonal and abundant, and it is often the most delicious thing you can order.
Menton is a city that rewards the curious explorer. By wandering away from the crowded terraces and following the aromas of garlic, basil, and baking dough, you will discover that the heart of this city is deeply accessible.
Dining affordably here does not mean sacrificing the magic of the Riviera. Instead, it offers a more intimate connection to the town. Sharing a table with local workers on their lunch break or chatting with a pizzaiolo who has been perfecting his dough for decades provides an experience far richer than any expensive tourist trap could offer.
Whether you are refueling after a hike up to the cemetery for the best view of the bay or resting your feet after exploring the Jean Cocteau Museum, these affordable gems ensure that your visit to Menton is as satisfying for your stomach as it is for your wallet. Bon appétit!
