Chez Fonfon

The story

Chez Fonfon Marseille – Bouillabaisse Tradition Since 1952

A Monument to Bouillabaisse

Entering Chez Fonfon is like visiting a monument. For 70 years, this restaurant in the small fishing port of Vallon des Auffes has been the guardian of a tradition that belongs to Marseille's collective culture. The knowledge of local fishermen, who passed down the secret of bouillabaisse like cathedral builders, still inhabits this temple of Mediterranean gastronomy. Here, fish is the foundation; everything else celebrates its freshness and flavour.

The Family Recipe Since 1952

World-renowned for its bouillabaisse, Chez Fonfon has perpetuated the same family recipe for four generations. Originally a humble fisherman's soup made from unsold catch, it has become the house's great specialty. The word "bouillabaisse" comes from the Provençal "bolhabaissa", meaning "when it boils, lower the heat". The restaurant adheres to the 1980 Marseille chefs' charter: no lobster, and at least four species of fish, all from the Mediterranean. Their fish are caught daily by their own pointus boats and prepared by the brigade. Rascasse, rouget-grondin, galinette, vive, congre, girelle and other rock fish are cooked with garlic, saffron, celery, fennel, herbs de Provence, cayenne pepper and olive oil. Potatoes, rouille, aioli and croutons complete the ultra-savoury broth. The restaurant offers to prepare the fish for immediate tasting.

The Spirit of Alphonse

Founded by brothers Alphonse and Jean Mounier, Chez Fonfon remains imbued with the founders' spirit. "We are proud to say that 70 years later, the spirit of Alphonse still blows," the team states. Being the heirs of this tradition commits them to duties more than rights. The restaurant is part of the Alphonse & Jean group, which also includes Chez Jeannot, Viaghji di Fonfon, Le cabanon de chez Fonfon, Domaine des Césars, and Beau Rivage – all expressions of a distinct art de vivre.

An Enduring Marseille Institution

Chez Fonfon is more than a restaurant; it is a cultural landmark. To dine here is to partake in a legacy of flavour and hospitality that has defined Marseille's culinary identity for over seven decades.