Dining well in Arles does not require a reservation at a high-end gastronomic temple or a hefty bill at the end of the night. While the city boasts an impressive culinary pedigree rooted in Provençal tradition, its true flavor often comes from the unpretentious corners where locals gather for a daily plat du jour or a perfectly crisped pizza.
Understanding the local dining culture is key to eating cheaply without sacrificing quality. In Arles, "affordable" rarely means fast food; instead, it translates to family-run bistros, bustling market-fresh kitchens, and neighborhood spots where the menu changes with the seasons. Here, the emphasis is on the quality of the raw ingredients—olive oil from the Alpilles, rice from the Camargue, and vegetables from local maraîchers.
To maximize your budget, you should embrace the French lunch formula. Many of the best restaurants in Arles offer a two- or three-course set menu (formule) during the day that is significantly cheaper than ordering à la carte in the evening. This allows you to experience authentic Provençal cooking at a fraction of the dinner price.
This guide focuses on establishments that prioritize value without compromising the soul of Arlesian cuisine. We have scoured the winding streets of La Roquette, the vibrant Place du Forum, and the quieter residential districts to find spots where you can eat generously for a reasonable price. Whether you are craving a hearty daube, fresh seafood, or a vegetarian-friendly salad, there is a table waiting for you.
These selections are based on consistency, local reputation, and the genuine warmth of their service. We avoid tourist traps that rely on foot traffic rather than return customers. Instead, we highlight the places where you are likely to sit next to a Camargue rancher or a local artist.
Below is a curated list of the 15 best affordable restaurants currently operating in Arles, ensuring you leave both satisfied and with money left over for a glass of local wine.
La Voûte
| Address | 4 Pl. Félix Rey, 13200 Arles |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 04 51 24 24 58 |
Beautiful place hidden away from the hot, crowded and narrow streets. The menu is small, but very good as they focus on fresh ingredients and quality. The food was amazing. The service was good, despite the fact that they were understaffed. All in all, it was a very good experience and I would definitely recommend this place.
For the last decade this local persona, this wonderful cook/chef/human being has always made gold wherever he has laid his hat in this town : simple and homely dishes at the right price. This new address is no different than the others, except this time around it’s an all-out affair in the most iconic site in town and he’s not alone in it (and that’s an understatement)
Thank you Martial, Armelle and the Team❤️❤️❤️
Don't overlook this restaurant - We had a wonderful experience from the moment we walked through the front door.
The owner and head chef greeted us personally and went over all of the menu options, which vary every single day.
The food took almost no time to arrive, and when it did, we were impressed by the presentation.
Taste and texture were also among the many highlights.
It was an experience that made it apparent how much the staff cares about providing a quality experience through their care, attention to detail, and passion.
I would recommend this restaurant a thousand times over for anyone visiting Arlés.
Had the noodle and it was okay. Service is a little slow but understandable as there are many diners.
Facing the beautiful garden, a serene atmosphere plus most delicious food, makes it the best place to eat in Arle. Big bonus -
one can have lunch even at 3pm.
Saveurs et Terroirs
| Address | 24 ter Rdpt des Arènes, 13200 Arles |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Phone | 06 26 79 05 99 |
Lovely restaurant! We visited for lunch both days during our trip to Arles.
Staff are so kind and friendly. View is wonderful, right next to the arena.
Fresh ingredients and delicious.
Hope to return.
This lovely restaurant deserves all the praise in these reviews!
The location next to the colosseum is stunning, the service is utterly charming and the food is amazing., and the prices are great - no extra charges for the prime location.
Our young waiter was really good at his job and had a real passion for the food and wine.
We enjoyed it so much we went twice.
What a surprise! Nice little venue, without chichi, the plateau de charcuterie et fromages was outstanding.
An unexpectedly exceptional lunch! We stopped in for a casual bite and were completely wowed. The salads were some of the best I’ve ever had—beautifully presented with fresh produce and edible flowers from their garden. The location is unbeatable, with views overlooking the Roman amphitheater, and the service was just as impressive—our waiter was warm, genuine, and incredibly accommodating. A true hidden gem made with heart in every detail. Highly recommend!
fantastic food, extraordinary service, nice ambience right next to the Amphitheater.
food also for vegans, vegetarians and gluten free!! great restaurant!
La cachette
| Address | 19 Pl. Honoré Clair, 13200 Arles |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:30 AM – 5:30 PM Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 5:30 PM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 5:30 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 5:30 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 5:30 PM Saturday: 11:30 AM – 5:30 PM Sunday: 11:30 AM – 5:30 PM |
| Phone | 06 25 62 65 15 |
We were expecting a tapas dinner, but the experience was quite disappointing. The menu was set and seemed to consist almost exclusively of cold dishes and small portions of purées or sauces: olive cream, a hummus-like purée or lentils, a small piece of zucchini with goat cheese, etc. The only bites we liked were the falafel, although the portion was very small.
Furthermore, one of the dishes included chicken livers, something that wasn't clearly indicated and which we didn't even get to try. Overall, we missed having more substantial food and a more varied and balanced menu.
The biggest disappointment was the wine: we ordered a glass of red and were served a drink that was almost pink, with a slightly effervescent texture and a flavor more reminiscent of cider than red wine. All this for €6 a glass, a price we felt was excessive for what we received. This style of cooking may appeal to other people, but for us the value for money was not satisfactory
Great food. It's a cool and cozy little place. The sandwiches tasted great and they gave us a salad. The waitress was friendly. The menus were only in french so it was difficult to figure out what kinds of sandwiches they had because the connection wasn't the best in the part of the restaurant where we were. All in all a great restaurant, would recommend.
Very good food: flavorful, but balanced in such a way that your stomach is as happy as your tongue, plus lovely service, at a more than fair price
Everything we tried (including the coffee and desert) was just amazing.
The staff was really kind and quick and the restaurant was clean and beautiful. We chose eat inside because of the air conditioner, but they also have a nice terrace which we will try next time.
Very nice place!
A very tiny and nice place in Arles !
This place was recommended to us and we really enjoyed out lunch under the shade !
The cooker and the waiter are very nice and welcoming!
The food was absolutely delicious, simple but with lots of taste 🤩
I do recommend that place
La CANTINE de Tina
| Address | 18 Rue Gaspard Monge, 13200 Arles |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM Tuesday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM Friday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 06 51 06 61 58 |
Popped in this little place on a whim as we drove past. We found delicious food cooked by a friendly owner who obviously loves to make people happy. It is homemade goodness at a reasonable price. The menu changes depending on what he cooks that day. We had a delightful lunch after visiting Van Gogh’s bridge nearby.. Visit the bridge and have lunch at a true local spot away from the tourist trap restaurants in the city center!
As tourists, we greatly enjoyed our lunch off the usual Arles' tourist path. The owner aims to provide excellent cuisine at an affordable price, and he succeeds. The flavorful beef main dish had a wonder mushroom sauce. Its seasonal vegetables were tender but not mushy and the french fries crisp. My spouse's chocolate mousse was rich and deeply flavored yet light in texture. My goat's milk camembert was excellent and artfully presented. The owner and waitstaff helped us greatly to communicate. We would gladly come back any time.
My wife and I went to La Cantina de Tina recently during a visit to Arles, and we loved it. It is not very close to most of the tourist attractions in downtown Arles, but it is well worth the trip. The food was excellent and the prices were very reasonable for cuisine of that quality. Also, if you are like me, an American who doesn’t speak French as well as he would like, everyone there was very friendly and helpful. They were more than happy to speak to us in English and help us by translating the menu. I recommend this place highly.
Lovely atmosphere, very very friendly people. The food is like homemaid food, which I think it’s the overall feeling when you are there, like you are welcomed to their house.
A great place! The food is very tasty and high quality, homemade. The owner is very nice and hospitable, made us feel at home. The menu changes, there are many options and also had adjustments for very good vegetarian options, and good price.
Bistrot populaire
| Address | 1 Rue Girard le Bleu, 13200 Arles |
|---|---|
| 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
Chez Nana
| Address | 26 Av. Sadi Carnot, 13200 Arles |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | 04 88 37 29 63 |
Stopped in for an impromptu lunch and, despite being told (via a very patient host and Google Translate) that they normally only do takeout lunch, we were promptly seated and served an incredible array — soup, couscous, veggies, meat, Moroccan tea, and sodas, all for €15 each.
I’m not sure when I’ll be back in Arles but I know I’ll head straight to Chez Nana.
We were passing by Arles to visit Camargue and we stopped here for lunch. The lady/owner is a very nice and welcoming person. It was only for take away when we came but she let us eat at the restaurant to not make us discomfortable. We took Royal Couscous. It was delicious and the serving was huge. And the tea was refreshing! Would recommend Chez Nana 🙂
Fantastic couscous and super nice owner! Can highly recommend!
Best couscous ever!
Generous portion, reasonable price and home-made taste. Thank you.
Really tasty moroccan food at an amazing price, with great service. Not much space to sit, but great for takeout.
Café Factory République
| Address | 35 Rue de la République, 13200 Arles |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 3:30 PM, 6:00 – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 3:30 PM, 6:00 – 9:00 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 3:30 PM, 6:00 – 9:00 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 3:30 PM, 6:00 – 9:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM, 6:00 – 9:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 04 90 54 52 23 |
We were craving a big healthy salad and visited for lunch after seeing the amazing reviews.
We sat outside in the sunshine and enjoyed two very large and tasty salads.
The waitress was very friendly and she tried very hard to speak to us in English which was greatly appreciated.
The food was amazing and very reasonably priced. There were so many things in the menu which I could have ordered.
It was away from the hustle and bustle of the main street which was very busy.
Superb - everything fresh and tasty and such lovely friendly service - enjoyed the chicken salad and mozzarella salad
Excellent place for lunch, the fresh sauces prepared on site are excellent, pleasant service and comfortable seating
We came to this place for lunch during our sightseeing. It’s one of the very few places open during siesta time. Our decision was spontaneous, but the place didn’t disappoint. The chicken salad was surprisingly good, and the duck was also well-prepared and enjoyable. The food arrived quickly as well.
The quality of food and service was good for a very reasonable price.
If you are looking for a quick spot to eat lunch and rest, we definitely recommend this place!
What a fantastic cafe. Mojito was great, followed by beautiful mains and desserts. My duck melted in the mouth perfectly cooked. My wife had salmon - equally delicious. The desserts to finish were wonderful also. Enjoy.
Oboulaba
| Address | 32 Rdpt des Arènes, 13200 Arles |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 7:00 – 9:30 PM Tuesday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 PM – 2:30 AM Wednesday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 PM – 2:30 AM Thursday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 7:00 – 9:30 PM Friday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 7:00 – 9:30 PM Saturday: Closed Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 06 11 73 81 13 |
What an amazing little gem! Right in front of the amphitheater too! Vegetarian food at its best! After spending all day in the sun, the last thing we wanted was something hot and heavy, this place was perfect!!! Portions were spot on and so delicious! Do NOT hesitate to check this place out!!
Hard to beat great food and an incredible view. Luckily we called this morning before they opened and we were able to secure a table for lunch. Everything was perfect, from the food to the service to the atmosphere. We will definitely come back for more! ♥️
The best place to try new dishes in Arles! My family and I loved it. We had never had vegetarian food, ever, but the dishes we tried here were so delicious; now we have to try more vegetarian dishes. We are definitely coming here again to try more of their menu whenever we visit Arles!
Additionally, the two gentlemen who served us our food were so sweet and warming. We do not speak French but they really did their best to chat with us and understand us.
I really recommend this restaurant.
Thank you for the delicious food and the warmth of your treatment. 😊
This was a real treat for us - our anniversary dinner in beautiful Arles. The service was incredible and the food was outstanding. Highest recommendation. Check out this view!
Great food, outstanding ambiance at the roman amphitheater, yummy foot, nice people. A great experience.
Le Criquet
| Address | 21 Rue Prte de Laure, 13200 Arles |
|---|---|
| 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.
Vivotto Arles
| Address | 10 Rue de la République, 13200 Arles |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | 04 90 98 46 79 |
Good food - I really enjoyed my lunch for €13.
Seemly cooked by them and then in a self service format. About 1/3 of the price of the other local cafes, albeit for a simpler format with smaller portion sizes.
It is an absolutely amazing place. Super charming modern decor and ambiance. Very healthy and yummy food. Competent staff. I loved it and v highely recommend it.
Food comes in sealed jars with hot food heated up piping hot. Dishes are tasty, decent-sized and reasonably priced. I had a salad, Bolognese lasagna and dessert.
This is my favourite café in Old Arles. Very relaxing, open, and bright, with lovely warm cozy indoor seating, excellent and witty baristas (one of whom even kindly laughed at my bad jokes). And excellent coffee, too. They have a lovely broad selection of vegetarian and vegan food too.
Lovely staff, perfect pasta, and complimentary fizzy or flat ice cold water to fill up bottles. They had GF, lactose free, vegetarian and vegan options. Very good prices compared to places around.
Le Constantin
| Address | 6 Rue du Sauvage, 13200 Arles |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 9:30 PM Tuesday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 9:30 PM Wednesday: Closed 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, 7:00 – 9:30 PM |
| Phone | 06 09 09 80 52 |
Everything is perfect, the atmosphere, the foods, and the owner's kindness. I visited to have a meal with my mother for Parents' Day and had the fish and octopus dishes. It was the best octopus I have ever had in my life, and the fish was delicious as well. Not only the main dishes, but also the various types of grilled vegetables had excellent flavors. The bread was also tosted very well. Thank you for giving me such a wonderful memory🙏💫
We had a wonderful experience, both the Pork and Fish were delicious. The chef certainly gave the impression he loved what he did, not only with the presentation and taste, there was a subtle happy whistle coming from the kitchen.
I normally don’t have dessert, but the nectarines on the menu read so well, and tasted even better.
Would certainly come back if we are in the area.
Le Constantin! Very… French! Traditional French food, rich and succulent. Treat yourself to an authentic local experience. Pedro, the host, is warm and welcoming. Bon appetit!
Our experience at Le Constantin in Arles was truly exceptional. From the moment we arrived, Pedro—both owner and chef—gave us his full attention, making us feel not just like guests, but genuinely welcomed.
His hospitality went far beyond anything we expected. In a memorable gesture, he even brought out a TV so we could catch the end of a soccer game—an act of thoughtfulness that perfectly captures his kind spirit.
The food was equally outstanding: beautifully presented, creative, and absolutely delicious. Each dish reflected both care and artistry.
Le Constantin is not just a restaurant—it’s an experience shaped by generosity, warmth, and passion. We can’t wait to return.
This was a unique and perfect dinner experience. The ambience was lovely, with soft music that our host whistled perfectly. My wife and I could chat easily, and our host was attentive. The food was amazing
The way the presentation enhanced the eating was enlightening. The food tasted as good as it looked. Following the bread, which was delicious, I had the lamb, and it was melting beautifully as it was pulled apart. A delight. Deserts were exquisite. Last night our host worked alone, and this made the experience for the diners even more amazing. A truely skilled chef delivering one of the best meals I have ever eaten.
L’essentiel bistrot
| Address | 2 Pl. Antonelle, 13200 Arles |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | 04 88 65 23 90 |
Very friendly staff and the food is just amazing! I had the Toreau and it was delicious, you could taste the red wine in the sauce and the meat was incredibly tender! My wife had the Ravioles gratinee aux truffes and enjoyed the savoury taste thoroughly. We highly recommend this Gault Millaud Restaurant!
Excellent dishes, well presented. Menu changes daily for freshness
Everything was good, and the service was excellent. It looked only two staff were working as I visited on Sunday, and the tables were almost full. So the serving took a bit time but it was absolutely fine as they were kind and the foods were nice.
The food was good but we had to sit for half an hour just to get a glass of wine. An hour to get the food another half an hour to dessert.
The starter was good.
For dessert, I chose the one with peach and mascarpone.
After a few bites, I couldn’t taste any mascarpone, so I asked the staff in case I had received the wrong dessert.
They told me that the mascarpone was at the bottom, but even after finishing it, I still couldn’t taste it.
The restaurant seemed quite busy but understaffed, so it took some time to get the staff’s attention.
I was seated on the terrace, and because the waiting time was long, it felt quite cold by the end of the meal.
La Petite Table
| Address | 11 Rue de la Cavalerie, 13200 Arles |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 6:00 – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM, 7:00 – 9:30 PM Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 7:00 – 9:30 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 7:00 – 9:30 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 3:00 PM |
| Phone | 06 19 73 29 84 |
What a lovely little restaurant! The service was excellent, and we appreciated having an English menu—perfect for non-French speakers like us. The portions were generous, and while the food overall was decent, we especially loved the soup of the day and the lasagne. The highlight, though, was the tiramisu—absolutely excellent! A great spot for a quick bite or simply to enjoy dessert and coffee. Would definitely recommend!
Absolutely delicious food at great prices. Arguably the best dinners we had in our nearly 3 weeks travelling throughout France. We ended up eating here two nights in a row.
The two owners were a genuine pleasure to chat with throughout our two nights dining here.
Highly recommend eating here if you plan to travel in and around Arles!
Beautiful and fresh! Crisp, luscious salads and lovely patio seating is a gorgeous first at a friendly place if you’re new to Arles!
Cute place. Nicely decorated. The chef is a humble person. Service was prompt and good.
The place is worth the visit. Unlike many touristic resto, I'm sure one will enjoy their time and food here.
Such a charming little restaurant! The service was friendly, and having an English menu was a big plus for those of us who don’t speak French. The portions were generous, and while the food was good overall, the soup of the day and the lasagne stood out. The real star, though, was the tiramisu—absolutely delicious! It’s also conveniently located, with parking close by and not too far from the highway. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or just a coffee and dessert, this place is worth a visit.
Du début à la Faim
| Address | 10 Rue du Président Wilson, 13200 Arles |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 2:45 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 2:45 PM Thursday: Closed Friday: 7:00 – 9:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 2:45 PM, 7:00 – 9:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 04 88 65 25 37 |
Delicious coffee, friendly staff and vegan options! Very beautiful charming spot with a hidden garden ☕️🌿
Very good food and perfect atmosphere. We enjoyed the time in the garden at the backyard.
First night in France and we loved the food! The owners are absolutely amazing! On a quiet street and just so lovely! Thank you for starting our vacation great!
Great experience, seasonal and local products revisited with Chef’s twist. Highly recommended if you are looking for a modern , local and tasty French cuisine!
The food was amazingly good. We had the local specialty of taureau and also the salade with smoked trout. A beautiful patio in the back had a welcome breeze. It was quiet and tucked away from the business of the street. Cafe gourmand filled in the corners with a delightful lemon custard and chocolate mousse. Our waiter even brought bubbles for our two year old. Highly Recommend. Merci Beaucoup!
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++
Tips for Dining on a Budget in Arles
While having a list of great restaurants is essential, knowing how to navigate the local dining scene will help you stretch your euros even further. Arles is a city of rhythm; if you sync your eating habits with the local clock, you will automatically save money and eat better. Here are some insider strategies to ensure you get the most value out of your culinary exploration.
1. Make Lunch Your Main Meal
Dinner menus in Arles can be expensive, but lunch is where the value hides. Most bistros offer a "formule midi" or "menu du jour" that includes an entrée, main course, and sometimes dessert for between €15 and €20. You will often eat the exact same quality of food that would cost double if ordered at 8:00 PM.
2. Look for the "Plat du Jour"
Avoid the à la carte menu whenever possible. The plat du jour is usually a single dish prepared in large quantities using whatever was freshest at the market that morning. It is almost always the best value on the table, often including a glass of wine or coffee in the price at more traditional establishments.
3. Step Away from the Place du Forum
While the central squares are beautiful for a coffee or an aperitif, the food prices reflect the real estate. Walk just five minutes into the side streets of the Roquette district or toward the Rhône river. You will find more authentic, family-run spots where the rent is lower and the portions are larger, allowing the owners to charge less.
4. Embrace the Street Food and Bakeries
Arles has a fantastic tradition of portable food. Grab a fougasse or a slice of pissaladière from a local boulangerie for a picnic by the Rhône. Additionally, look for food trucks or stands at the Saturday market, which serve hearty, affordable meals made with local produce.
5. Drink the House Wine
Ordering a bottle of branded wine can double your bill instantly. Instead, ask for "un pichet" of house wine (vin de la maison). In Provence, even the bulk house wine is usually a local Côtes du Rhône or IGP Méditerranée, and it is often delicious and incredibly cheap, typically costing a third of the price of a bottled label.
6. Check for "Service Compris"
Unlike in some other countries, tipping is not obligatory in France as service is included in the price by law (service compris). While it is polite to leave a few euros for exceptional service, you should not feel pressured to add 20% to your bill. Keeping this in mind helps you accurately budget your meal.
Navigating the food scene in Arles on a budget is not about sacrificing experience; it is about localizing it. By eating where the locals eat and following the rhythm of the French meal schedule, you unlock a layer of the city that many tourists miss. The warmth of a small bistro owner recommending a goat cheese from the Alpilles or the simplicity of a perfectly roasted chicken at a market stall are the true tastes of Provence.
Arles is a city that rewards the curious and the patient. With a little planning and the willingness to wander down a cobblestone alley, you can enjoy the rich culinary heritage of the Camargue without emptying your wallet. Bon appétit!
