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La Place du Pin à Nice

Nice: Discover the Charm of Place du Pin

Written by a passionate local from Nice - Dernière modification le November 8, 2024

Located just a few steps away from the port and the old town of Nice, the neighborhood surrounding place du Pin shines with its charm and liveliness. Embark on a journey to discover this authentic place dotted with numerous bars and restaurants.

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The charm of place du Pin in Nice

The neighborhood owes its name to the famous pine tree that has always stood at the center of its square. Initially, it was a popular and industrial area, with many traditional shops located there. In the early 2000s, the neighborhood began to undergo a transformation. Without losing its authenticity, trendy shops, bars, and restaurants started to appear. The nickname “Petit Marais niçois” was born. You can stroll among the ochre facades of a neighborhood that is both authentic and lively. A sense of lightness pervades this place, which resembles a small town within the city.

Rue Bonaparte, leading to place du Pin
Rue Bonaparte, leading to place du Pin

Extending from Place du Pin, Bonaparte Street is named after the famous French Emperor, Napoleon Bonaparte. Indeed, he stayed in one of the houses on this street from March 27 to December 22, 1794. A commemorative plaque is located above the entrance door. Can you find it ?

Commemorative plaque affixed to a building on place du Pin where Napoleon Bonaparte lived
Commemorative plaque affixed to a building on place du Pin where Napoleon Bonaparte lived

A lively neighborhood

The lively district of Place du Pin
The lively district of Place du Pin

Although the area doesn’t reach its peak of activity until nightfall, it’s still possible to enjoy it during the day. You can stop by one of the many sunlit terraces for a drink. If you’re feeling hungry, you’ll find a wide range of restaurants and tapas bars offering modern and high-quality cuisine. Brunch enthusiasts will also find several well-known spots to satisfy their cravings. As night falls, place du Pin becomes more vibrant, attracting both tourists and locals looking to party. The area, which tends to appeal more to people in their thirties and beyond, offers a chance to dance and enjoy cocktails while remaining relatively sheltered from the bustle of Vieux Nice.

Where to have a drink and enjoy tapas at Place du Pin ?

Place du Pin and its surroundings are filled with bars where you can enjoy a drink and share tapas, either on the terrace or indoors. Here are two must-visit spots.

Café des Chineurs

The warm facade of Café des Chineurs
The warm facade of Café des Chineurs

Café des Chineurs, located at the corner of Rue Bonaparte and Rue Cassini, offers delicious cocktails accompanied by a variety of tapas. Among the options are cheddar patatas, goat cheese croquettes, avocado toasts, and much more. In addition to tapas, the establishment also serves burgers and homemade Mexican tacos.

Le Magnolia

Le Magnolia is a tapas bar and restaurant situated in the heart of the “Petit Marais niçois.” This trendy spot offers a wide range of cocktails, from classic to inventive. The tapas menu is equally impressive, featuring a broad selection from zucchini flower fritters to fresh chorizo grilled on the plancha. Every weekend, resident DJs provide lively music until late into the night!

Dining at a restaurant on Place du Pin

Place du Pin is also known for its quality restaurants. Here are two spots to check out for a delicious meal.

Pizzeria Prima Volta

The Margherita pizza with extra olives served at Prima Volta
The Margherita pizza with extra olives served at Prima Volta

Located just steps from Place du Pin, Pizzeria Prima Volta serves delicious Neapolitan pizzas. You’ll find a wide selection, from classics like Margherita to more inventive creations. The dough, thin and light, is prepared with care, as are the toppings, made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The atmosphere is friendly, with the option to sit on the terrace and enjoy the vibrant ambiance of the neighborhood.

Greek Restaurant Kalōs

In the heart of the Place du Pin neighborhood, Kalōs offers Mediterranean street food with Greek flavors. Indulge in specialties such as souvlaki, feta pastries, moussaka, tzatziki, and pita sandwiches. These delicious dishes can be enjoyed indoors or on the small terrace, where you can soak up the lively atmosphere of the area.

Enjoying Brunch at place du Pin

As Nice wakes up, Place du Pin is always bustling with activity. Here are two must-visit spots in the neighborhood offering delicious brunch options.

Le Clay

Selection of delicacies at brunch at Le Clay
Selection of delicacies at brunch at Le Clay

Located at 4 Rue Bonaparte, just steps from Place du Pin, Le Clay is a must-visit spot for brunch in Nice. It offers delicious options such as avocado-feta toast, açai bowls, maple syrup pancakes, and more. The cozy atmosphere and large terrace make it an ideal place to relax while enjoying the neighborhood vibe.

Café Paulette

Café Paulette, situated on Place du Pin, is a contemporary café renowned for its high-quality brunches. Whether indoors or on the terrace, you can enjoy a variety of freshly prepared juices. The menu features scrambled eggs, farm bacon, avocado toast, maple syrup pancakes, and many other delights.

How to get there?

To conclude

The Place du Pin neighborhood in Nice is the perfect place to wander. Come take a stroll to appreciate a typical neighborhood of Nice. Also, enjoy the lively atmosphere it offers. Indeed, many trendy bars and restaurants contrast with the authenticity of the place. This blend creates a delightful atmosphere for an absolute moment of relaxation!