From cafés on the main square to family restaurants tucked down cobbled streets, there’s a great choice of restaurants in L’Ile Rousse.
L’Ile Rousse is one of my favourite coastal towns in Corsica and the sea there is a crystal-clear aquamarine by day and equally beautiful by night, with the lights from the beach-side restaurants reflected in the water.
You’ll find a fantastic range of eateries to choose from here, whether for breakfast by the beach, lunch in a quiet cobbled backstreet or dinner as the sun sets, lighting up the promontory with a rusty glow (from where the town gets its name – the red isle).
Top Ten Restaurants in L’Ile Rousse
The many restaurants vary in style, price and quality so with that in mind here’s a heads-up on some of our favourites.
1. L’Epicure Place Pascale Paoli
A wonderful restaurant with a varied menu catering for all tastes – we tried the crpaccio, fillet steak, locally caught fish of the day and the French toast dessert. With outdoor seating overlooking the main square you can enjoy the ambience of the town and watch the locals play pétanque during your meal.
2. Restaurant Terra d’Amore Rue Napoleon
A lovely restaurant with a modern yet homely feel, it offers a blend of Corsican and South American dishes, very unique!
3. La Bodega Rue Napoleon
Atmospheric tapas and fish restaurant with friendly and attentive staff. Booking recommended.
4. L’Escale
Serving simple, bold dishes inspired by local produce, L’Escape is a stylish restaurant overlooking the sea. Tuck into tapas, salads, Corsican charcuterie and local seafood – not forgetting the ever-popular lobster pasta.
5. U Spuntinu Rue Napoleon
Hearty home-cooked Corsican food in a friendly family run restaurant. Their tasting plate is great choice if you’d like to try traditional Corsican cuisine. Vegetarian options are also available.
6. Le Grand Bleu
Dine al fresco at this charmingly rustic restaurant, which specialises in traditional Corsican cuisine. Located in the old town, it’s a wonderful place to wine, dine and soak up the hustle and bustle of the town.
7. Sushi Bar Le Shime Avenue Piccioni
Offering a good range of sushi, wok meat and fish, Le Shima also create their own dishes using the local produce. With some seats outside offering the buzz of the street – air-conditioned inside, you will find the familiar revolving sushi bar.
8. A Casa Corsa, Place Pascal Paoli
Simple, authentic Corsican food and wine in a friendly atmosphere. Their Corsican cheese and charcuterie platters coming highly recommended, as does the local produce that you’ll find for sale in their shop next door.
above: Place Pascal Paoli
9. Brasserie les Quatre Becs Place Pascal Paoli
A great choice for pizza! Located near the quaint square, you will find ‘crispy thin-crust pizzas’ cooked on a wood fire.
10. Le Marinella Promenade de la Marinella
In a fantastic location right on the beach with the crystal-clear water just a couple of metres away. Dine with your toes in the sand.
Where to Stay
If all these wonderful restaurants are tempting you to visit L’Ile Rousse here are some recommended places to stay in around this lovely seaside town.
Hôtel Santa Maria A comfortable beachside hotel just a short stroll from the centre of town.
Hôtel le Splendid A traditional hotel in a quiet part of L’Ile Rousse with the beach, shops and restaurants close by.
Find more hotels, villas and apartments in L’Ile Rousse and La Balagne region on our website, Corsica.co.uk.