Wondering what to eat and drink in Nîmes? Whether you’re here for a weekend or exploring the South of France in depth, this guide will help you taste the best local specialties, find the most charming restaurants and bars, and enjoy authentic southern cuisine. From historic cafés to food markets, here’s where to eat in Nîmes like a local.
Best Restaurants in Nîmes
A selection of top places to enjoy regional cuisine — from family-run bistros to elegant venues.
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Restaurant Gastronomique Jérôme Nutile
Refined Southern Gastronomy in an Elegant Setting Tucked away just beyond the urban rhythm of Nîmes, Restaurant Jérôme Nutile offers a serene escape into the world of haute cuisine. Located at 351 Chemin Bas-du-Mas-de-Boudan, the restaurant occupies a charming converted farmhouse, marrying sleek contemporary interiors with subtle rustic touches. It’s an address that invites calm,…
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Villa Roma Restaurant
Ever wondered where to enjoy Italian cuisine beside Nîmes’ iconic Arena? Villa Roma, nestled on boulevard des Arènes, offers an experience that effortlessly blends location, flavour, and friendly service. A Spectacular Location I stumbled upon Villa Roma while strolling around the old town of Nîmes, right near the iconic Roman Arena. You can’t miss it…
Where to Drink: Bars and Local Wines
Discover the best spots for wine, cocktails, and pastis with a view.
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Rum Bar Le Barberousse, Nîmes
Rum Bar Le Barberousse, Nîmes The Barberousse boasts the biggest selection of rums in Nîmes with an outstanding variety of rums, infused rums, punch and rum-inspired cocktails to work your way through. This über popular drinking den, located at the edge of the Boulevard Gambetta, is very lively without being over crowded. Small yet very…
Food Markets and Gourmet Addresses
Where to buy local delicacies and enjoy the authentic food scene of Nîmes.
Local Specialties to Try in Nîmes
Brandade de morue, gardianne de taureau, croquant Villaret… Let’s explore Nîmes’ iconic dishes.
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Petit Pâté Nîmois: The Savory Bite That Embodies Nîmes
A Story Rooted in Nîmes’ Identity While the precise origin remains a matter of debate, the Petit Pâté Nîmois began appearing in local bakeries around the late 19th century. Over the decades, it became part of the everyday culinary landscape, eventually earning recognition as one of the city’s gastronomic emblems. Its modest size and simple…
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Tarte Tatin (Tatin Pie)
Tarte Tatin The Tarte Tatin is a French classic upside-down fruit tart. Its origins especially the way it was invented is somehow not clear. Several versions are made, often by changing the tradition apples by other fruits such as apricots. It is also made with more or less caramel and cinnamon up to the mood…
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Brandade (a.k.a Brandade de Morue)
Brandade (salt cod fish puree) Cod Fish?! You said Cod Fish? Here you are!!! The Brandade Where to find it: First of all and traditionally in Nîmes, Languedoc-Roussillon region, Gard Departement. In the Camargue region and some other places along the littoral such as Sète, Marseilles, Toulon. If there is dish that would represent…
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Fougasse
The Fougasse (La Fougasse) Fougasse is an oven baked bread specialty that is typical from the South of France. It is easily recognizable to its shape and patterns similar to an ear of wheat. Its dough is mainly made with wheat flour and olive oil. Where to find it: Mainly in the following region:…