Lucy Folk Longevity Campaign, shot in Marseille. Photographs courtesy of Lucy Folk. Post-covid it has experienced a flood of newcomers, among them is Australia’s own Lucy Folk, the founder of the Australian lifestyle brand of the same name. The city’s laid-back spirit perfectly aligns with the ethos of Folk’s brand, prompting her to make it her new home away from home — a place she returns to when she’s not in Sydney or the Sunshine Coast. T Australia caught up with Folk to ask for her top recommendations on what to do when visiting Marseille.
Where To Drink:
Ivresse, 76 Rue Léon Bourgeois
“It oozes charm and you just can’t help but want to settle in and savour a bottle of their selection of the finest natural wine. It’s low key but special — perfectly lit with candles. Touching knees under the table hasn’t felt this good in a while. Not only can you drink but you can eat small plates lovingly prepared by the chef or the visiting chef. We always leave a little bit happier!”
Grenadine, 47 rue d’Endoume
“It is a newish wine bar with an exceptional selection. Nomi who you might remember from Septime or La Mercerie is hosting almost every night and its delightfully feminine and reminds me of entertaining at home. Of course, I am drawn to the pink banquettes and the basket chic wine coolers but mostly it’s the charm and curation of Nomi! A small menu is prepared daily and her anchovies sprinkled with hazelnuts and lemon zest are too good. Thank you for opening such a wonderful place for thirsty parents like us to escape to. Opening hours are perfect for a post swim aperitif! Just park your bike outside!”
Where To Eat:
Ripaille, 756 rue lorette
“Located in a former butcher shop, the chef prepares delicious fresh and seasonal food. The soup au pistou was a standout. In the winter you might find someone playing the piano under candle light. Natural wines play a strong part in the offering here. In summer, the restaurant spills outside and the area is full of grit and vibrancy. The menu changes daily as per the chefs desires. It’s a gem.”
La Relève, 41 Rue d’Endoume
“A bit of an institution, the team here love to party! Their seasonal menu changes daily. Lucky its open all day to satisfy your lunch and dinner cravings. There is even a little hotel upstairs. It is packed daily and full of beautiful characters from Marseille. Its hard to leave without having a drink! No bookings makes it even better!”
What To Do:
Swim at Malmousque
“Swimming off the rocks in Malmousque! Pack a cheesy picnic and some wine! Maybe a speaker. Party on a rock. Swim into the sunset and watch the sky erupt into pinks, purples and blueeee. It’s the best way to end the day by the sea.”
Shop at Maison Empereur
“Right in the heart of Marseille you will find this homeware mecca! It’s the shop of all shops. Founded in 1827 they really had the eye! What I would do to stock my kitchen and house with all the things here. You can buy a broom, some soap, provençal fabrics, wooden toys, gardening gloves, crochet bags.. copper pots, linen sheets, pans, knives. The list goes on! There is even a cafe and a beautiful little gallery.. You can see how many stores have taken inspiration from this store. Even the brooms are cool. Cleaning products have never been so chic!”
Visit Centre de la Vielle charité
“It is a treasure to be discovered. Located in ‘Le Panier’ it was a hospice of the 17th century. Today it is an incredibly interesting centre housing the Museum of Archaeology and the Museum of African, Oceanian and Amerindian Arts. In the centre of the grounds is a baroque style chapel by Pierre Puget with artists projections.”
