Exclusive Cannes Dining: Secret Tables You Must Try

The culinary landscape of Cannes can be broken down into three distinct parts: establishments that stand the test of time, modern venues that are attracting attention, and exclusive events that require an invitation, which many people eagerly seek.

If the third situation isn’t unfolding as expected, it’s crucial to have a strategy that lands me at the optimal gaming tables, be it in the legendary dining halls or bustling hotspots. As a gamer, I always make sure I’m prepared for any twist or turn the game might take!

Here is THR‘s look at restaurants to try, if you haven’t yet, or revisit, if you have.

Rüya in Carlton Cannes
58 Bd de la Croisette Cs 40052, 06400 Cannes, France

Stepping away from the usual Cannes dining scene, “Rüya” translates to “dream” in Turkish, and this eatery nestled within the renowned Carlton Cannes offers a fusion of modern and traditional dishes hailing from the Anatolian Peninsula. It’s the sole establishment of its kind on the Croisette, and it preserves its cultural roots, showcasing seven distinct regions of Turkey through exotic spices and unique cooking techniques that are artfully incorporated into each communal plate, complemented by a selection of daring cocktails. Rüya exudes an atmosphere that is both familiar yet slightly removed, despite the patio offering breathtaking views of the Croisette. The bakery churns out pide and flatbread with assorted toppings, while the charcoal grill handles proteins ranging from succulent King prawns to 24-hour slow-cooked Wagyu beef brisket.

Salama
10 Rue Florian, 06400 Cannes, France

In the heart of Rue Florian, instead of being nestled in a hotel, I find myself at Salama – a vibrant spin-off from its famous sibling in Saint Tropez. This culinary gem beautifully blends Moroccan and Mediterranean flavors, keeping me right here in the enchanting South of France. Thanks to architect David Granata and his team at OREKA Architecture, the Maghreb and the French Riviera seem to dance together flawlessly. The venue offers two seating options each night; as the second one kicks off, the place transforms with belly dancing and lively music, creating a captivating atmosphere. From traditional Moroccan dishes like Chicken Pastilla, couscous, and tajines, to skewers and brochettes, the menu is thoughtfully designed. To top it all off, they’ve got an impressive cocktail program that perfectly complements each dish.

Zuma
Palm Beach Cannes, Pl. Franklin Roosevelt, 06400 Cannes, France

Making its debut at Cannes last year, the internationally recognized restaurant brand Zuma was introduced alongside the reopening of the refurbished Palm Beach complex (originally opened in 1929 and closed in 2019 for renovation), featuring numerous restaurants and private clubs on the Cap de la Croisette peninsula. This particular Zuma boasts a terrace offering stunning views of the Côte d’Azur, as well as exclusive dishes unique to Cannes such as the sliced otoro, presented with smoked tomato dashi and oscietra caviar, and beef tartare seasoned with sancho pepper, myoga, and black truffle. With nearly two dozen Zumas scattered across the globe, who’s keeping track? Given Nobu is an hour away in Monaco, this is your top choice for a taste of the familiar.

La Petite Maison
Palm Beach, Pl. Franklin Roosevelt, 06400 Cannes, France

Located in Palm Beach, the renowned restaurant La Petite Maison Cannes boasts a breathtaking vista stretching from Cap d’Antibes to the Lerins Islands. The menu features dishes with a touch of whimsy, such as warm prawns bathed in olive oil. They offer brunch, lunch, and dinner service, and are known for their lavish servings of caviar and truffles. Each table is adorned with the signature edible tomato and lemon centerpiece, which you can enjoy at your leisure.

La Môme 
6 Rue Florian, 06400 Cannes

As a devoted admirer, I must say that the buzzing eateries of Cannes, whether they hail from afar or are destined for greater horizons, truly capture my heart. For instance, La Môme, initially a gem on Rue Florian, has merely served as a stepping stone, propelling them to establish a beach club in our beloved city (La Môme Plage) and even a sibling eatery in Monaco. If you picture La Môme as a vibrant soirée that miraculously manages to transition into a productive morning, you’d be on the right track!

Draped in the elegance of La Dolce Vita, adorned with Slim Aarons’ captivating images, La Môme is renowned for its meticulous crudo menu and jaw-dropping crudo towers. The extensive pasta offerings and a veritable smorgasbord of other delectable choices make this establishment a haven for every guest’s satisfaction.

La Palme d’Or inside Hôtel Martinez 
73 Bd de la Croisette, 06400 Cannes, France

Last year, the iconic La Palme d’Or restaurant at Hotel Martinez, venue for the annual Cannes Jury Dinner, reopened following a comprehensive renovation. Now under the leadership of Chef Jean Imbert, this revamped space was recently awarded its first Michelin star. The new dining experience, designed by Rémi Tessier, immerses diners in a cinematic world reminiscent of the movies, with a menu that resembles a film script, dishes served as storyboards, coat-check slips looking like vintage movie tickets, and dessert menus styled like call sheets. The ambiance is that of an old boat, complete with lacquered wood, adorned with movie posters, artifacts, and scripts bearing handwritten notes. The pièce de résistance is the terrace offering breathtaking views of the French Riviera and the Mediterranean Sea, where one can savor seafood and other delicacies from the surrounding waters.

Fred l’Écailler
12 Pl. de l’Étang, 06400 Cannes, France

Nestled on a tranquil stretch of Pointe Croisette lies a humble eatery, perhaps the most significant restaurant in Cannes. This understated seaside spot is frequented by celebrities, who eagerly seek out its proprietor, Fred Garbellini, always sporting his distinctive red beanie. Here, diners can savor dishes that some claim to be transformative, featuring fresh seafood, shellfish, oysters, and other delicacies, with the daily catch proudly displayed on a board as it deserves. Consequently, it’s also become a popular venue for hosting some of Cannes’ most exclusive parties. Be sure not to miss this dining experience.

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2025-05-13 09:55