Top 5 Vegan Restaurants in Marseille, France
Vegan restaurants in Marseille, France, may not be plentiful. But what they lack in numbers is more than made up for in quality, innovation, and a passion for progress. In a city so alive with energy, a vibrant yet small vegan scene is nothing to complain about.
In fact, it might actually be a blessing. The power of Marseille’s tight-knit plant-based community is something to behold, and something many could learn from.
Very rarely am I genuinely impressed with every single dish I eat on an overseas trip. There are usually a few misses and at least one to forget, but this was not the case in Marseille. It was all incredible.
From delicate French flavors to plant-based kebabs and desserts that’ll make you forget that diet, it’s amazing how a handful of restaurants can offer such incredible variety.
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Vegan Restaurants in Marseille: Where Community Drives Creativity
Marseille is a melting pot of cultures and ideas from not just Europe, but the world. As well as being home to one of the largest ports on the continent, the city is also accompanied by a reputation for having an edge. But spoiler alert, that’s exactly why I love it.
Unlike its neighbors such as Nice and Montpellier, Marseille is more gritty than pretty. It’s unapologetic, authentically itself. And to be honest, it’s a bit of a tonic that gives me Naples vibes and reminds me of Lisbon.
That’s not to say it isn’t beautiful with some gorgeous architecture, history, and plenty to do. Plus a ton of plant-based food that you can find in this wonderful list of my top five vegan restaurants in Marseille, France. Let’s go!
Mauvaise Herbe
6 Rue Haxo, 13001 Marseille, France
Perfection is a word I use sparingly. Not often can a restaurant tick every single box and blow me away time after time.
That makes Mauvaise Herbe very, very special.
From the sleek, minimalist design to the incredible menu and dishes I still dream about today, Mauvaise Herbe is a restaurant you simply cannot miss when you’re in Marseille.
Their passion for blending fine dining with a casual, neighborhood bistro feel is unique and utterly admirable. They follow the seasons to craft dishes with only the freshest and most abundant organic produce. Think herbs that sing on your plate and veg so colorful they wouldn’t look out of place in a Matisse painting.
But back to those dishes that live rent-free in my head. Crispy heaven on the outside, soft and aromatic on the inside, their arancini are what dreams are made of. Up there with some of the best pasta I’ve ever had is their artichoke tagliatelle, each mouthful like an earthy, herby, umami bite of France itself. And don’t get me started on the pavlova. Crunchy, cloudy meringue, silky cream, and juicy strawberries. Don’t!
I have no doubt you’ll leave Mauvaise Herbe with a smile on your face, silently thanking whoever wrote that article you read months ago (my pleasure). Their dishes are so fresh, so wholesome, yet somehow you leave feeling lighter. It’s a real gem and is not to be missed.
Mariposas
102 Cours Julien, 13006 Marseille, France
For capturing everything I love about Marseille and packaging it into one restaurant, I would like to sincerely congratulate Mariposas.
It shines with energy, warmth, and creativity. You know you’re in exactly the right place before you’ve even walked through the door. Its bright blue facade and playful murals inside tell you all you need to know.
And even more treats are to come when you set eyes on their gorgeous menu. A celebration of organic veg would be one way to describe it, of course, using only what’s in season. This means an ever-changing menu and extra excitement for us.
Their dishes are more casual than fine dining, but I must say, their plates are stunning. Simplicity and quality mean whatever you choose will be a treat, totally fresh and completely satisfying.
It’s odd, though. I remember flavor combinations and textures rather than specific dishes. A credit to their very intentional pairings and great skill. Allow me to riff.
Oozing eggplant, crisp carrot, creamy tahini, gentle citrus.
Luxurious mushrooms, cheesy cauliflower, capers for balance.
Do you get the idea? There’s color, life, and innovation in every dish.
All of that joy is created by the awesome people behind Mariposas. They’ve given us such a safe and welcoming space, locals and tourists side-by-side, that can become whatever you want it to be. Casual lunch or fancy dinner, take your pick. Either way, you’ll be right at home.
John Silver Original Bistroffee
6 Rue Neuve Sainte-Catherine, 13007 Marseille, France
There’s something very cool about John Silver, and it’s not just their name.
The loud graffiti and colorful street art set the scene. You’re then greeted by a long, smooth, deep walnut bar. It feels as if you’re entering a private club, but the familiar hum of coffee in the air and bubbly staff put you at ease. All very cool, caps back, busy making drinks.
Sitting at your marble table now, the fun really begins. Choosing from their menu can be a challenge, but don’t worry, there are no wrong choices.
What’s usually a late-night bad decision is the perfect lunch, giving you the energy you need for your escapades around the city, without any sluggishness. Healthy options feel totally indulgent and sweet treats are instantly justified once you’ve experienced the punchy yet delicate flavors on offer.
I’m a sucker for a vegan kebab at the best of times. Warsaw previously held my number one spot, however, that was before John Silver. The pillowy bread confidently holds together a symphony of flavors, delicious plant-based “meat”, sauce, and salad working in harmony. And that’s just the start, they do a boss burger, pulled “pork”, and even a ciabatta raclette.
John Silver doesn’t pretend. It makes non-vegan dishes vegan, and far better than the original. But they also offer some wonderful salads, pasta, and bowls that will give you a new lease on life.
For a breath of fresh air, the best coffee in town, and some of the most satisfying vegan food you’ll ever eat, John Silver has you covered.
Hododa
15 Rue de l’Évêché, 13002 Marseille, France
Bringing the vegan flavors of Armenia to the plates of Marseille is the ever bright Hododa, which means sense in Armenian.
There’s absolutely no shame if you’re now wondering what on earth Armenian food actually is. The most similar cuisine I can compare it to are Middle Eastern or Turkish, both plant-based powerhouses in their own right, so we’re off to a good start.
Think warm spices like sumac, coriander, and cumin. Flatbread doubling as cutlery to scoop up creamy hummus. Legumes reigning supreme and citrus running throughout every dish.
The restaurant itself is beautiful, tucked away on a narrow little street that only adds to its character. Arthur and Rachel, the founders of this fine establishment, have created a space that feels elegant yet cozy. It’s the type of place you lose hours over great food and better company.
Now, you already know about my weakness for kebabs. Well, that weakness extends to shawarmas too. And nowhere does one as vibrant and flavorsome as Hododa. Marinated celeriac (a very underrated vegetable in my opinion), bulgur pilaf, hummus, tahini sauce, and of course fresh lavash bread. Arguably the best, but undoubtedly the healthiest shawarma out there.
The menu at Hododa is small but rotates all the time, with some regular classics and plenty of seasonal specials. They’re all about sustainability with 80% of their produce coming from France and the rest being Fair Trade, and they definitely deserve a visit next time you’re in Marseille.
De Bon’heur
206 Boulevard Baille, 13005 Marseille, France
Cute, artsy, and serving up some banging brunch food, De Bon’heur might just become your favorite vegan spot for some relaxation away from the madness of Marseille.
Around a half-hour walk from the main tourist area by the Old Port, the streets surrounding De Bon’heur offer a real sense of local living. I always love to explore beyond what the guidebook recommends, to go off-grid for at least an afternoon. De Bon’heur is your perfect excuse to do exactly that.
The first thing you’re greeted with is a charming space, full of natural light, high ceilings, and wooden décor. I spent several mornings enjoying the ambiance, sipping on americanos, eating pastries, and getting some great work done. It really is a great place to focus.
However, you’re here to relax, and the best way to do that is with a pile of their famous pancakes. I was completely unaware there was so much you could do with them. From lathering them in jelly and peanut butter, to covering them in granola, fruits, and maple syrup. Who knew pancakes could be so dynamic?
You’re covered for something savory too, though. With stuffed banh mi, glowing salad bowls, and so much more to choose from, De Bon’heur is a hidden gem that doesn’t break the bank either. Their roasted sweet potato sandwich is absolute carb-on-carb heaven.
With such innovative chefs and food just as comforting as the space itself, De Bon’heur will definitely steal a piece of your heart.
Small but mighty. Marseille’s vegan community sure knows how to eat, and I for one am very grateful for it.
It’s a city full of life and excitement with an edge over its neighbors in the region, in my opinion. Food-wise, top for me. Culture, top. General fun, Marseille wins every time.
Hungry vegans, don’t sleep on Marseille.
You know who else is well-versed in vegan restaurants around the world?
Rebecca at Veggies Abroad!
But her awesomeness doesn’t stop there. She’s your all-in-one vegan adventure planning extraordinaire and also runs vegan tours worldwide.
To start your journey or just say hello, don’t think twice about reaching out. She’d love to hear from you.
France Travel Inspiration
If you’re exploring more than Marseille, you’ll want to check out these articles.
The Best Vegan Restaurants in Nice
Vegan & Vegan-Friendly Hotels to Book in Paris
Vegan France Guide: Where to Go & Eat
Must Visit Vegan Restaurants in Paris
