Stroll through a market on the docks of Marseille, leave your basket in a cool place and sit down to enjoy products made by the finest local craftsmen and producers : this is the concept behind Les Halles de la Major. Families of foodies meet here for festive weekend lunches and – every two weeks – indulge in a lively brunch that’s especially perfect for children.
The Decor
Set in the newly revived district of Joliette, beneath the vaults of Marseille Cathedral, the covered market of Les Halles de la Major is home to more than a dozen food counters and shops, spread out over two floors. Visitors flow freely among the stalls, where old wooden tables and colorful chairs sit in rooms flooded with light from the port and filled with fragrances determined by each caterer’s menu that day. In the summer, a large, open terrace welcomes all families.
The Food
Everything here is of the highest quality – the best artisans, caterers and producers all striving (and succeeding) to honor the gastronomy of their region. Succumbing to our desires and the vendors’ suggestions, we tried fresh-picked salads created by Eric Cohen, fish tartar and seafood by Patrick Torres and Eric Castro and meats and cheeses from the Lyon-based Maison Cellerier, ending on a sweet note with the delectable recipes of Gérald Passédat. Two Sundays a month, each vendor revises his regular menu and adds a special dish for brunch.
For Kids
The space, ambiance and proximity to the docks (where little ones on scooters love to meet) all make Les Halles de la Major a popular venue for families in Marseille. On brunch days, parents even have the opportunity to enroll their children in an hour-long workshop. Led by four babysitters, they can practice cooking, painting or sewing after devouring their own brunch: a choice of a mini-burger and cheddar fries, breaded nuggets or a wrap, followed by pancakes, waffles or ice cream (depending on the season).
Les Louves loves to shop here for some delicious cheese and a handful of shrimp to brighten up a Sunday evening.
To Discover
- On Sunday Brunch days at 10am, moms can take a Pilates class upstairs while the kids are cared for at the workshop (10€ an hour for adults).
- Before or after brunch, continue your promenade on the waterfront and visit the MuCEM, Mediterranean Culture Museum, which houses an entire space for children ages 7 to 12. Here, they can discover the Mediterranean while following the footsteps of Ulysses (7 promenade Robert Laffont – esplanade D4- , 13002 Marseille).
- The Panier district and its picturesque streets, just to the right of Marseille Cathedral.
Information
Les Halles de la Major
12, Quai de la Tourette
Les Voûtes de la Major
13002 Marseille
Metro : Joliette
Tramway : Stop République-dames
www.leshallesdelamajor.com
Checklist: Elevator, High chairs, Space for strollers, Terrace, Children’s menu, Entertainment.
Find on Google Maps
Prices & Reservations
The restaurant does not take reservations. Children’s workshops every hour between 11:30am and 5pm (5€ per child).
For upcoming brunch dates:
+33 (0)4 91 45 80 10
hello@leshallesdelamajor.com
Translated by G.W.
