Dining in Design: The French Riviera’s Beachfront Gems
stories
The French Riviera has long been synonymous with sunshine, sea and sophistication. But beyond its gilded coastlines lies a collection of restaurants that double as style statements in their own right. From mid-century modern classics to cutting-edge contemporary creations, each venue tells a story of design, history and status. Whether you’re a connoisseur of beachfront restaurant design or simply seeking a slice of Côte d’Azur glamour, join us as we unpack five summer hotspots that combine architecture, ambience and A-list appeal in one unforgettable experience.
La Pinède – Cap d’Ail
Design & Architecture
Tucked beneath a canopy of maritime pines, La Pinède in Cap d’Ail feels like dining in a secret garden. The interior, conceived by local artisans, uses bleached timbers, woven rattan and dappled sunlight filtering through branches to create a relaxed yet refined atmosphere. Natural stone terraces step gently down towards the sea, allowing tables to feel nestled amid the foliage.
History & Status
Since opening in the 1960s, La Pinède has attracted the Riviera’s creative set. It was once a favourite haunt of Grace Kelly and her circle during the filming of To Catch a Thief, and more recently has drawn fashion luminaries such as Jean-Paul Gaultier for private dinners.
Notable Visitors
- Grace Kelly often lunched here while living nearby, appreciating its understated elegance.
- Brigitte Bardot is rumoured to have sketched the terrace’s view in her travel diary.
Why Visit?
It’s a masterclass in blending indoor and outdoor spaces, making it a cornerstone of French Riviera luxury dining. Book Here
Le Plongeoir – Nice
Design & Architecture
Perched atop a remnant pier jutting into the Mediterranean Sea, Le Plongeoir occupies the skeleton of an old diving platform. Its stilted foundations and glass-walled pavilion give the impression of floating above the water. Industrial steel beams have been left exposed, contrasted by plush banquettes in sea-foam green and brass accents that catch the sunset.
History & Status
Originally built in the 1920s as a public swimming platform, it fell into disrepair before a 2013 renovation transformed it into a beacon of beachfront restaurant design. Today, it’s a must for anyone seeking a meal that’s as much about the setting as the cuisine.
Notable Visitors
- David and Victoria Beckham reportedly booked the entire venue for a family lunch in 2018.
- Sir Elton John played piano at the adjacent bar during an impromptu after-party.
Why Visit?
The combination of sculptural architecture and panoramic sea views makes it one of the Côte d’Azur’s most Instagrammed spots. Book Here
Annex – Cannes
Image Source – Annex Cannes
Design & Architecture
Annex is the Riviera’s answer to the industrial-chic cocktail lounge cum beach pavilion. Raw concrete walls are softened by flowing white drapes and oversized tropical plants. A mezzanine level—with its own bar and private cabanas—offers a sense of exclusivity, while the main floor’s low-slung lounges encourage languid afternoons by the water.
History & Status
Opened in 2019 by a collective of Cannes hoteliers and designers, Annex quickly became the go-to after-party spot during the film festival. Its design draws inspiration from 1970s Californian beach clubs, adapted for the Mediterranean climate and a discerning European clientele.
Notable Visitors
- A-list actors and directors often spill over here after red-carpet events.
- Fashion influencers stage impromptu editorial shoots against its graphic backdrops.
Why Visit?
Annex strikes the perfect balance between cosmopolitan edge and seaside ease—ideal for those who appreciate bold design statements. Book Here
Tahiti Beach Club – Saint-Tropez
Image Source: Tahiti Beach
Design & Architecture
Since 1958, Tahiti Beach Club has been synonymous with Saint-Tropez glamour. Its signature thatched-roof pavilions and bamboo-framed bars evoke a Polynesian fantasy, while the interiors surprise with sleek marble counters and Art Deco lighting. Generous tangerine-coloured cushions and colourful tiled floors lend warmth and playfulness to the space.
History & Status
A pioneer of summer beach culture, Tahiti Beach Club was founded by local visionaries who sought to create a bohemian retreat for the jet-set. Over the decades, it has retained its boho-chic spirit even as it welcomes supermodels and superyachts each season.
Notable Visitors
- Brigitte Bardot practically put Saint-Tropez on the map—and she was a regular here.
- The Rolling Stones famously partied on its decks during the 1971 European tour.
Why Visit?
It’s both a slice of Riviera heritage and a study in evolving beach-club design, seamlessly marrying nostalgia with modern comfort. Book Here
From the forested allure of La Pinède to the bohemian heritage of Tahiti Beach Club, the French Riviera’s summer restaurants are more than places to dine—they’re immersive design experiences steeped in history and star power. Whether you’re drawn by the glass-walled intrigue of La Plongeoir or the industrial cool of Annex, each venue offers a distinct vision of what beachfront restaurant design can be.
For those inspired to bring this level of thoughtful, luxurious design into their own spaces, Luxoria Interiors specialises in creating environments that echo the elegance, innovation and timeless appeal found along the Côte d’Azur.
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