Discover the Vibrant Cécile Food Club in Marseille

Located on the picturesque Corniche in Marseille, the Cécile Food Club has taken the city by storm since its opening earlier this year. The café’s name is elegantly displayed on the window, and its charming striped awning exudes a retro St Tropez vibe. With outdoor benches, a convenient order hatch, and a delightful range of merchandise including trendy totes and T-shirts, Cécile Food Club offers more than just a culinary experience. Its long glass counter showcases a constantly replenished assortment of delectable sandwiches, salads, and pastries. The bread selection alone ranges from classic jambon-beurre to tantalizing concoctions like Niçoise-filled pan bagnat, vegetable-chili hoagies, and a mouthwatering pastrami toasted sandwich complete with hand-smoked meat, cheddar, coleslaw, pickles, and Savora mustard. This sandwich would easily rival those found in any Brooklyn deli.

A Culinary Haven

Owned by supermodel Erin Wasson, originally from Texas, and her Marseille-born husband Barthelemy Tassy, Cécile Food Club is a true labor of love. They are joined by childhood friends Thibault Hillmeyer, an event organizer, and Paul Langlère, a skilled chef who trained at the prestigious Plaza Athenée in Paris. Langlère also oversees the renowned restaurant Sépia in Marseille. Cécile Food Club quickly became more than just a café; it has become a vibrant meeting place for locals and European travelers alike. The café’s popularity has grown so much that some days there are lines down the block, while other days it resembles a family-friendly hangout with kids and dogs frolicking about. Wasson is often found lending a hand on busy days, taking on various roles from coffee duties to bussing tables. Despite her fame as a supermodel, Wasson embraces the low-key atmosphere of Marseille, where everyone is treated equally. Visitors to Cécile Food Club can expect a warm and inviting experience in this fashionable city.

Indulge in Sweet Delights

One cannot visit Cécile Food Club without sampling its array of delectable pastries. Among the treats on display, the praline-rose brioches stand out with their enticing appearance, resembling dough volcanoes oozing with pinkish jammy lava. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick caffeine fix, a fresh bite to eat, or a delightful aperitif, Cécile Food Club has you covered. Open seven days a week from 8am to 8.30pm, it has become a beloved spot for locals and beachgoers alike. Its convenient proximity to the Malmousque coastline makes it a popular choice for those seeking sustenance after a day of sun-worshipping on the rocks.

A Love Story, a Dream Location

Cécile Food Club is a nod to Tassy’s grandmother, who was known for her warm hospitality and full fridge. The café perfectly embodies the energy of the Malmousque neighborhood, combining both trendy and traditional establishments. Wasson compares the area to Abbot Kinney in California during her early days there, where the little alleys exuded a unique vibrancy reminiscent of old Venice. Wasson and Tassy’s own love story is a charm in itself. It started with a chance encounter at a local gay bar in Venice. From that moment, their connection grew, leading them to open Cécile Food Club and eventually settle in Marseille, a city that holds a deep sense of honesty and juxtaposition between urban culture and seaside beauty.

An Abundance of Culinary Delights in Marseille

Marseille is a treasure trove of culinary destinations, and here are just a few that should not be missed:

• AM par Alexandre Mazzia: Indulge in inventive three-Michelin-starred tasting menus at 9 Rue François Rocca.
• Chez Paul: Enjoy fresh barbecued fish, fish soup, and pizza at 35 Rue Désiré Pelaprat, @auberge_du_corsaire.
• Jogging Jogging: Feast on contemporary fashion and delectable dishes inspired by Eastern European, Middle Eastern, and Asian flavors at 103 Rue Paradis.
• La Cave de Baille: Savor wine and small bites while engaging in a lively conversation with the owner at 133 Bd Baille.
• La Mercerie: Experience fresh food and natural wines at 9 Cours Saint Louis.

Marseille offers an abundance of dining experiences that cater to a variety of tastes. From three-Michelin-starred seafood at Le Petit Nice Passedat to modern French cuisine with Asian influences at Regain, there is something to please every palate. After a day of culinary exploration, why not unwind at Tuba Club, where you can enjoy swimming, cocktails, and even spend the night in one of their sea-facing rooms. Marseille truly is a food lover’s paradise.

A Life Full of Flavor

For Wasson, food has always played a significant role in her life. She has a passion for cooking and finds joy in gathering friends around the table to share a meal. Since adopting a vegan lifestyle four years ago, her favorite dishes now include vibrant rice bowls bursting with fresh herbs or a tahini-infused creation.

Living in Marseille has opened the doors to new opportunities for Wasson. The city’s proximity to Paris has allowed her to engage in fashion projects that resonate with her artistic spirit. It’s not just about money, impressions, or followers; it’s about meaningful work reminiscent of her early days in the industry. Marseille, with its honest energy, beautiful surroundings, and warm-hearted people, has become the perfect place for Wasson and Tassy to build their dream café and create a new chapter in their lives.

If you find yourself in Marseille, make sure to visit Cécile Food Club for an unforgettable culinary adventure that embodies the spirit of this vibrant city. Whether you’re craving delicious sandwiches, mouthwatering pastries, or simply a welcoming atmosphere, Cécile Food Club has it all. From the moment you step through the door, you’ll be captivated by the unique charm and flavors that make this café a true gem in Marseille’s culinary scene.