There’s something truly magical about sipping a perfectly crafted coffee while basking in the warm Mediterranean sun.
As an expat living in Nice, France, I’ve come to cherish the city’s vibrant café culture, where you can spend hours indulging in delicious brews and savory treats while watching the world go by.
Over the years, I’ve made it a mission to explore as many coffee shops as possible, and I’m excited to share my curated list of the 10 best cafés to visit in Nice, France.
Whether you’re a fellow coffee enthusiast, a book lover seeking a cozy nook, or simply someone who appreciates a charming ambiance, this guide will lead you to hidden gems scattered throughout the city.
So, grab your sunglasses, and let’s embark on a caffeinated adventure through the French Riviera’s coffee haven.
1- Café Librairie Les Parleuses
In a city brimming with enchanting locales, Café Librairie Les Parleuses stands out as a true oasis for book lovers and coffee connoisseurs alike.
This unique café, nestled in the heart of Nice, seamlessly blends the worlds of literature and artisanal brews.
As you step inside, you’re immediately enveloped in a cozy ambiance adorned with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, inviting you to lose yourself in the pages of a captivating novel or classic tale.
But it’s not just about the books; Les Parleuses takes its coffee game seriously. Their skilled baristas meticulously craft each cup, ensuring every sip is a delightful experience.
Whether you prefer a rich, bold espresso or a creamy, velvety latte, they have you covered.
If you’re feeling peckish, indulge in one of their delectable pastries or light bites, the perfect accompaniment to your literary and caffeinated endeavors.
“A good book and a great coffee – that’s the formula for a wonderful afternoon.” – Anonymous
It Is Located At:
18 rue Defly, 5 Pl. du Général Georges Marshall, 06000 Nice.
2- HOBO Coffee
Nestled in the heart of Vieux Nice (Old Town), HOBO Coffee exudes a charming, welcoming atmosphere that instantly transports you to a quaint, European café.
This cozy spot is a haven for those seeking specialty coffee brews and casual bites. As you step inside, the aroma of freshly roasted beans wafts through the air, beckoning you to indulge in their thoughtfully curated coffee menu.
But HOBO Coffee isn’t just about the brews; it’s an experience. The friendly baristas are passionate about their craft, eager to share their knowledge and recommendations with you.
Whether you’re a seasoned coffee aficionado or just starting your caffeinated journey, they’ll guide you through the flavors and nuances of each blend.
If you’re feeling peckish, HOBO Coffee offers a delightful selection of casual bites, from freshly baked pastries to hearty sandwiches, perfect for fueling your adventures through the picturesque streets of Nice.
It Is Located At:
5 Bis Rue Sainte-Reparate, 06300 Nice
3- Atelier Alfred café
Serendipitously stumbling upon Atelier Alfred café after a visit to the renowned Musée Chagall was a delightful surprise.
This hidden gem immediately captivated me with its charming garden setting and creative atmosphere.
As you step into the enchanting outdoor space, you’re greeted by a lush oasis of greenery, where the gentle trickle of a fountain provides a soothing backdrop to your café experience.
But Atelier Alfred isn’t just about the idyllic ambiance; it’s a haven for coffee lovers and creative souls alike. Their skilled baristas craft each cup with precision, ensuring every sip is a delightful experience.
If you’re feeling peckish, indulge in one of their delectable pastries or light bites, the perfect accompaniment to your caffeinated endeavors.
What truly sets Atelier Alfred apart, however, is its commitment to fostering creativity.
They offer a range of workshops and classes, from painting and pottery to creative writing, providing a space for locals and visitors alike to explore their artistic inclinations.
It Is Located At:
13 Rue Vernier, 06000 Nice
4- Brulerie des Cafés Indien
For the true coffee connoisseur, Brulerie des Cafés Indien is a must-visit destination in Nice.
This café is a haven for those who appreciate the finer nuances of coffee, serving some of the rarest and most exquisite beans from around the globe.
As you step inside, you’re immediately enveloped in the rich, intoxicating aroma of freshly roasted coffee, a sensory experience that sets the stage for the caffeinated journey ahead.
The skilled baristas at Brulerie des Cafés Indien are true artisans, meticulously crafting each cup to highlight the unique flavors and notes of the chosen beans.
Whether you prefer a bold, robust blend or a delicate, floral cup, they have something to tantalize your taste buds.
But the experience at Brulerie des Cafés Indien extends beyond just the coffee. The inviting atmosphere, coupled with the knowledgeable staff, creates an environment where you can truly appreciate the art of coffee.
Engage in lively discussions about the nuances of each brew, or simply bask in the cozy ambiance as you savor every sip.
It Is Located At:
35 Rue Pairolière, 06300 Nice
5- HUG Café Nice
Nestled in the heart of Nice, mere steps away from the bustling Jean Medecin street, lies the charming HUG Café Nice.
This unassuming café has quickly become a local favorite, thanks to its warm ambiance and innovative coffee creations. As you approach, the tantalizing aroma of freshly brewed coffee beckons you inside, where a world of caffeinated delights awaits.
One of the standout offerings at HUG Café Nice is their signature sun latte, a unique concoction that blends the rich flavors of milk with the warm, earthy notes of turmeric and the zesty kick of ginger.
This refreshing beverage is the perfect pick-me-up on a sunny day, providing a burst of energy and a delightful twist on the classic latte.
But that’s not all – HUG Café Nice is also renowned for its exceptional matcha offerings.
Whether you prefer a traditional matcha latte or a more creative spin on this beloved green tea, their skilled baristas will craft a beverage that tantalizes your taste buds.
It Is Located At:
2 Rue de Suisse, 06000 Nice
6- Edmond Café
Stepping into Edmond Café is like stepping into a dream. This enchanting café is often hailed as one of the prettiest in all of Nice, and for good reason.
From the moment you enter, you’re greeted by a charming, beautifully designed space that exudes a warm, inviting ambiance.
But beyond its aesthetic appeal, Edmond Café is a true haven for those seeking delectable pastries and savory bites.
Their skilled pastry chefs create an ever-changing array of sweet and savory treats, each one more tempting than the last.
Whether you’re in the mood for a buttery croissant, a decadent slice of cake, or a hearty quiche, you’ll find it here, presented with artistic flair.
And let’s not forget about the coffee – Edmond Café takes its brews seriously, offering a wide selection of expertly crafted espresso-based beverages and specialty drinks.
Pair your chosen indulgence with a perfectly brewed cup, and you’ve got a match made in café heaven.
It Is Located At:
11 bis Rue du Congrès, 06000 Nice
7- Zeni Coffee
As an American expat living in Nice, there are times when I crave the familiarity of a coffee shop that reminds me of home.
That’s where Zeni Coffee comes in, offering a cozy, inviting atmosphere that instantly transports me back to the cafés I frequented in the United States.
Upon entering Zeni Coffee, you’re greeted by a warm, welcoming vibe that immediately puts you at ease.
The decor is sleek and modern, with a touch of industrial flair, creating a space that’s equal parts stylish and comfortable.
But it’s not just the ambiance that makes Zeni Coffee a standout – their coffee and food offerings are top-notch.
Whether you’re in the mood for a perfectly crafted latte, a robust pour-over, or a refreshing iced coffee, their skilled baristas have got you covered.
If you’re feeling peckish, they offer a delightful array of breakfast items, sandwiches, and sweet treats to accompany your caffeinated indulgence.
It Is Located At:
7 Rue du Maréchal Joffre, 06000 Nice
8- Chez Les Garçons
For those seeking a hip, trendy café experience in Nice, look no further than Chez Les Garçons. This stylish spot exudes a cool, industrial vibe that instantly transports you to the trendiest corners of the city.
As you step inside, you’re greeted by a sleek, minimalist decor that perfectly blends exposed brick walls, polished concrete floors, and carefully curated vintage accents.
The atmosphere is buzzing with energy, filled with a mix of locals and visitors alike, all seeking a caffeine fix in a chic, urban setting.
But Chez Les Garçons isn’t just about the aesthetics – their coffee game is strong.
Their skilled baristas craft each cup with precision, using high-quality beans and innovative brewing methods to create bold, flavorful beverages that tantalize the senses.
It Is Located At:
1 Rue Niepce, 06000 Nice
9- Cafe Frei
Stepping into Cafe Frei is like embarking on a global coffee journey without ever leaving the heart of Nice.
This unique café takes inspiration from around the world, crafting a menu that celebrates the rich diversity of coffee cultures.
Each beverage on the menu is a nod to a different country or region, combining traditional brewing methods and flavor profiles to create a truly one-of-a-kind experience.
From the bold and robust blends inspired by the coffee houses of Italy to the delicate, floral notes reminiscent of Japanese tea ceremonies, Cafe Frei offers a world of flavors to explore.
But it’s not just about the coffee – Cafe Frei also offers a selection of light bites and pastries that complement their globally-inspired beverages.
Whether you’re seeking a savory snack or a sweet treat, you’re sure to find something to tantalize your taste buds.
It Is Located At:
52 Rue de France, 06000 Nice
10- Il caffé dai ragazzi
For a taste of authentic Italian cafe culture in the heart of Nice, look no further than Il caffé dai ragazzi.
This charming spot exudes a warm, welcoming vibe that instantly transports you to the cozy cafés of Rome or Florence.
As you step inside, you’re greeted by the rich aroma of freshly brewed espresso and the lively chatter of locals and visitors alike.
The decor is simple yet inviting, with a touch of rustic charm that perfectly captures the essence of an Italian cafe.
But it’s not just the atmosphere that draws people in – Il caffé dai ragazzi is renowned for its exceptional coffee offerings, particularly their heavenly cappuccinos.
Crafted with care and precision, each sip is a velvety, frothy delight that will have you savoring every last drop.
For those with a sweet tooth, Il caffé dai ragazzi is a true paradise. Their pistachio tarte is the stuff of legends, a decadent treat that perfectly balances the rich, nutty flavor of pistachios with a buttery, flaky crust.
It Is Located At:
57 Rue de France, 06000 Nice
11- Malongo Atelier Barista
For true coffee aficionados, Malongo Atelier Barista is a must-visit destination in Nice. This sleek, modern café is home to Malongo, a renowned coffee roastery that has been perfecting the art of coffee for generations.
Upon entering Malongo Atelier Barista, you’re immediately greeted by the rich, intoxicating aroma of freshly roasted beans, a sensory experience that sets the stage for the caffeinated journey ahead.
The skilled baristas here are true masters of their craft, meticulously crafting each cup to highlight the unique flavors and notes of the chosen beans.
But Malongo Atelier Barista isn’t just about the coffee – they also offer a delightful selection of pastries, paninis, and light bites to accompany your caffeinated indulgence.
Whether you’re seeking a savory snack or a sweet treat, you’re sure to find something to tantalize your taste buds.
It Is Located At:
39 Av. Jean Médecin, 06000 Nice
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Final Thoughts
As you can see, Nice is a true haven for coffee lovers, offering a diverse array of cafés that cater to every taste and preference.
From cozy, book-filled nooks to trendy, urban hotspots, and everything in between, this city has something to delight every coffee connoisseur.
Whether you’re seeking a peaceful sanctuary to unwind with a good book or a lively spot to catch up with friends, the cafés on this list are sure to provide you with a memorable experience.
So, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready to embark on a caffeinated journey through the charming streets of Nice.
This list is just the beginning – there are countless other hidden gems waiting to be discovered throughout the French Riviera.
So, keep exploring, keep sipping, and most importantly, keep savoring every moment in this coffee lover’s paradise.
If you have any other café recommendations or favorite spots in Nice, I’d love to hear about them in the comments below. Happy caffeinating!
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