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Monaco’s culinary scene is heavily influenced by French and Italian cuisines, with a focus on fresh seafood and Mediterranean flavors. The city is home to several Michelin-starred eateries, and its culinary scene is distinctive due to the city’s luxurious and attractive atmosphere as well as its reputation for drawing high-end guests.
Key Points
Must-Try Dishes and Drinks
The wide variety of delightful food and drinks available in Monaco’s culinary scene are well worth trying. Here are some of the local food and drinks in Monaco that every visitor should try:
Socca
Socca is a simple yet utterly captivating dish that embodies the rustic charm and gastronomic richness of Monaco’s street food scene. This savory pancake is made from chickpea flour, which is whisked together with water and olive oil to create a smooth batter. The magic happens when this batter meets the searing heat of a large, flat hot plate, traditionally cooked in the open air for passersby to watch in anticipation. The result is a golden, crispy-edged pancake with a soft, slightly nutty interior that sings with the flavors of the Mediterranean.
Barbagiuan
Barbagiuan is Monaco’s crisp, savory delight: a fried pastry pocket filled with a lush mix of Swiss chard, spinach, and creamy ricotta cheese. This popular street food offers a crunchy bite outside with a soft, flavorful filling inside, making it a must-try for anyone exploring the local cuisine. Perfect as a snack or a light meal, Barbagiuan brings a taste of Monégasque tradition to your palate, simple yet utterly satisfying.
Stocafi
Stocafi is a cherished traditional Monégasque cuisine that brings the essence of the Mediterranean to your plate. At its heart, Stocafi is made with meticulously selected salted cod, a practice that dates back centuries and serves to both preserve and imbue the fish with a distinct, deeply savory flavor. This venerable fish is then gently simmered with a generous amount of onions, adding a sweetness that complements the cod’s saltiness, and ripe tomatoes that break down to create a luxuriously thick, aromatic sauce. Black olives, a staple in Mediterranean cuisine, are added for their vibrant contrast in flavor and color, delivering a subtle bitterness that balances the dish beautifully.
Traditionally, Stocafi is served with a side of creamy polenta or smooth mashed potatoes, each offering a comforting, mild base that perfectly absorbs the rich, complex sauce. This pairing not only rounds out the meal but also pays homage to the agricultural traditions of the region, where corn and potatoes have been staples for generations.
Stocafi is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary journey that encapsulates the spirit of Monaco, blending the simplicity of local ingredients with the sophistication of centuries-old culinary techniques. It’s a testament to the region’s ability to turn the humble into the extraordinary, making it a must-try for anyone wishing to experience the true essence of Monégasque cuisine.
Pissaladière
Pissaladière is a tantalizing savory tart from Monaco, featuring a trio of caramelized onions, anchovies, and olives atop a thin, crispy crust. This appetizer, often enjoyed with a glass of local wine, combines sweet onions with the salty punch of anchovies and the distinct bite of olives, creating a flavor profile that’s both complex and deeply satisfying. Perfect for starting a meal or as a light bite on its own, Pissaladière invites you to sample the rich flavors and culinary traditions of the French Riviera.
Monaco also offers a variety of local wines and cocktails that visitors should try. Here are some of the most popular:
The Grand Prix Cocktail
This cocktail, named after the famous Monaco Grand Prix, is made with gin, lime juice, and champagne.
Bellet wine
Produced in the hills of Nice, just a short drive from Monaco, this white wine pairs well with seafood and other Mediterranean dishes.
Best Restaurants and Bars
Monaco is home to many excellent restaurants and bars, offering a variety of dining options from fine dining to casual eateries. Here are some of the best places to eat and drink in Monaco:
This three-Michelin-starred restaurant is known for its elegant setting and exceptional French cuisine.
This Michelin-starred restaurant offers a fusion of Mediterranean and Caribbean cuisine, with stunning sea views.
This bar features Asian-inspired decor and serves an extensive cocktail list, making it a popular spot for nightlife in Monaco.
Local Markets
For those looking for locally sourced, fresh ingredients, Monaco’s markets provide a distinctive shopping experience. The Condamine Market, a bustling outdoor market in the center of Monaco, offers a wide selection of regional goods, including fresh fruits, vegetables, and seafood. Except for Sunday, the market is open every day and has a buzzing atmosphere. In addition to that, the Monaco Organic Food Market, which is held every Friday in Place d’Armes, is another excellent choice for purchasing fresh local ingredients.
Food and Drink Festivals
The year-round food and drink festivals held in Monaco highlight the city’s thriving culinary scene. The annual Monte-Carlo Gastronomie food festival showcases the best dishes and products from regional and international chefs and producers. The Monaco Yacht Show’s Chef’s Competition, where chefs from superyachts compete to make the best dishes using regional ingredients, is another must-see event. A food fair and tastings of traditional Monégasque cuisine are among the culinary events part of the Principality of Monaco’s National Day celebration in November.
