Riviera Pebbles Blog: My Secret Nice Part 3: Nice Old Town

Posted on 11th Jul 2015 in Nice News

Designer furnishings are mixed with traditional Old Town decor, including terracotta tomette floors

My Secret Nice Part 3: Doug Eglin, owner of Apartment Croix, Nice Old Town.

The French Riviera is perennially popular. And with postcard-perfect panoramas, year-round sunshine and miles of public beach, it’s easy to understand why.

But what about when you’re ready to lose the crowds? Part of the pleasure of travelling is to sample living like a local, from shopping neighbourhood markets to savouring a glass of rosé in a delightfully out-of-the-way café.

This week Doug Eglin, owner of Apartment Croix, shares what it’s like to be a resident of Nice’s Old Town quarter – as well as plenty of insider tips!

“We bought our apartment in 2006, after spending several holidays in Nice. At first, we were attracted to the Riviera by memories of happy childhood holidays. But we were soon seduced by the heady combination of great weather, fabulous fresh food, sleepy villages and dynamic cities like Nice and Marseille.

“We adore our one-bedroom apartment in the Old Town. Here everything is literally on your doorstep. Art, shops, markets, great architecture, restaurants – even the beach is just a three-minute stroll from our front door.

"One of the biggest surprises has been how beautiful and how quiet the Old Town becomes once the huge throngs of tourists have left in October and all the way through to March. It’s undoubtedly our favourite time to visit. The sun is still shining but you can get a table at your favourite restaurant more easily!

“As owners of our own restaurant in Liverpool (Puschka), we definitely have an avid appreciation for Nice’s superb cuisine. And the Old Town delivers – there is such a great selection of eateries in our neighbourhood, the choice of where to dine is difficult!

"Le Bistrot d'Antoine (27 rue de la Préfecture) has been a favourite since it opened nine years ago. Sophie and Armande have created something very special and unique, with cuisine that is rooted in traditional Provençal dishes – but with some new and interesting creative touches too.

"La Rossettisserie, just off place Rossetti, is another firm favourite because of its very simple roast meat format. Great service from the effervescent Matthew and a tiny menu makes life so much easier!

"And finally the lovely family-run Acchiardo Restaurant (38 rue Droite) serves up good, simple homely food, along with friendly service. They haven't been around since 1929 for nothing!

“Other than eating, our favourite local pastimes are scouring the Monday Marché a la Brocante (antique and flea market) on the cours Saleya, visiting the MAMAC museum of contemporary art and people watching over a glass of wine and a slice of pissaladière – oops! That's eating again isn't it?

"We also enjoy walking up the Colline du Château, a panoramic park that has amazing views over the Old Town and the Baie des Anges.”