Top Bars and Cafes in Aix-en-Provence

Jacquou le Croquant

This tiny restaurant in the pedestrian area of the town center offers a hearty cuisine from the Lot region. The Chef works away in the open kitchen to produce dishes that reflect her skill and sense of fun, all under the eyes of an appreciative clientele. They also have a Patio that is decorated with flowers to set in the mood are you have your meal here.  The wine list favors wines from the Cahors region.

Le Grillon

In the prettiest part of the city, shaded by centenary plane trees, this meeting spot and its terrace are perfect for sipping your cocktail as the pedestrians pass by. Here you can find your favorite cocktail and an excellent quality to price rapport. There is a large selection of beers both bottled and on tap, and the service is warm and attentive. This is definitely an address to remember if you need a break between sightseeing stops.

Hot Brass Jazz Club

For more than 20 years, this disco located seven kilometers (4.5 miles) to the north of Aix-en-Provence proper, has been an essential meeting-place for jazz-lovers; as much for the program of live concerts as for its DJ and his passion for swing. The photos on the walls evoke many torrid nights and evenings when the great names from the music scene came here to perform and to improvise.

Le Scat Club

Come to Le Scat Club if you have a penchant for good, solid, live bands. Every style is featured here, but the emphasis is on jazz. Pop, rock, rhythm and blues, funk, and sometimes classical are styles that are also showcased. When the live music is taking a break, DJs do their thing to get people dancing. The neat thing about Scat Club is the actual building itself. The inside resembles a 17th-century cellar, with a low, arched, stone ceiling--very smoky and atmospheric, but this can also be a problem if you are claustrophobic, and it can also get quite hot. You probably won't find any teenagers here, as the crowd gravitates toward the thirty-somethings. Check website for performance schedule.

La Chimère Café

This interesting restaurant has three levels, each decorated differently. On the first level you'll find a swanky bar, complete with mirrors, heavy velvet drapes, and cherub statues, all set against a sky-colored ceiling. Upstairs the decor is slightly more subdued, and is called "the red room" for reasons that will become obvious once you see it. The basement has an arched ceiling, painted dark blue and covered with gold stars, with colorful lamps completing the romantic yet mysterious vibe. But no matter which area you decide to sit in, the food will be great. Try the foie gras terrine with onion jam and buttered toast, or veal kidneys served with mustard sauce and mashed potatoes. For delicious French and Provençal cuisine, La Chimère Café is the place to go. A fixed-price menu is available. Reservations are recommended, especially on Friday and Saturday nights.

Les Deux Freres

Les Deux Freres is a trendy lounge-like restaurant run by two brothers. They serve sumptuous cuisine prepared with care and passion by one of the brothers. The atmosphere of the place is good for a full meal shared with family and even for a quick coffee and chat with friends. Being a family venture, guests are treated with warm and attentive service. The place is open daily, except on Sunday evenings between November and March. Check website for details.

Le Passage

Le Passage not only serves delicious French cuisine but it also houses a trendy lounge, Le Salon Rouge. Le Salon Rouge is famous for its exotic cocktails, and the restaurant serves an impressive selection of wines. If delicious cuisine and fancy cocktails aren't enough, Le Passage is also home to a culinary school and offers a catering service. Le Passage is perfect for any occasion whether it's a romantic dinner or drinks with friends. The fixed prices menus are a great value for such a high-quality meal. 

La Rotonde

La Rotonde is a popular spot for dinner, dancing or an after-work drink. The resident DJ, Ricardo, spins hip tunes each night and chef Philippe Sublet serves up delicious French cuisine. La Rotonde is open seven days a week and always packs a crowd. If you stop in for a drink, you're likely to stay through dinner. The menu includes a delicious selection of pastas, fish and meat, and the fixed price menus ranging from EUR19.50 (only for lunch) to EUR45 are a great deal!

L' Unplugged Pub

L'Unplugged is a bar and a concert venue for many talented up-and-coming acts. Most of the shows fall into the category of rock, and this place is filled with the local rock-loving crowd. The bar also hosts theme nights. Check out the website for a full calendar of events; there is a show almost every night!

Olde Bulldogge

This British pub is the perfect spot for an after-work drink, a gathering with friends, or if you're just craving some excellent fish and chips. The menu also features other British favorites like Bangers and Mash, and the Olde Bulldogge serves breakfast all day as well as salads, sandwiches and burgers. It's a great local spot.