La Cigale is among the most celebrated brasseries in the Loire region and one of the finest examples of French Art Nouveau interior design still in daily use as a restaurant. Established in 1895 on the Place Graslin in central Nantes, the dining room was classified as a French historic monument (monument historique) in 1964, a recognition of the extraordinary hand-painted ceramic panels, gilded mosaics, mahogany mouldings, and arched mirrored ceilings that define the space. The kitchen delivers dependable brasserie classics with a strong emphasis on Atlantic shellfish: plateau de fruits de mer is the signature centrepiece, assembled with oysters, langoustines, crab, and whelks from the nearby Atlantic coast. Côte de boeuf is ordered frequently, and the millefeuille is widely considered the finest dessert on the menu. Breakfast and morning coffee attract a loyal local following; the croissants and viennoiserie are sourced from quality Nantes bakers. Lunch service is particularly animated, with a set formule including a starter, main course, and glass of Muscadet representing strong value relative to the surroundings. La Cigale is open continuously from 07:30 until midnight, making it one of the few quality dining rooms in Nantes available throughout the day and late into the evening. The wine list emphasises Loire Valley appellations. Tables along the side walls offer a quieter experience than the main floor during peak service.
Signature dishes
- Plateau de fruits de mer
- Côte de boeuf
- Millefeuille
Good to know
- Known for
- Art Nouveau interior classified as a historic monument; oysters and seafood platters
- Hours
- Daily 07:30–00:30
- Reservations
- Recommended for lunch; walk-in usually possible for breakfast and late evening. Phone: +33 2 51 84 94 94
Location
4 Place Graslin, 44000 Nantes
47.2161, -1.5617 View on map
Highlights
- Art Nouveau interior classified as a French historic monument, dating from 1895
- Plateau de fruits de mer assembled with freshly landed Atlantic shellfish
- Open continuously from 07:30 through midnight — exceptional hours for a quality brasserie
- Spectacular ceramic panels, gilded mosaics, and mirrored ceilings in the original dining room
- Prime position on the Place Graslin, one of Nantes' most elegant squares
Tips for visiting
- Visiting at opening (07:30) provides the full atmosphere of the historic room with far fewer crowds
- The set lunch formule (starter + main + Muscadet) gives the best price-to-setting ratio
- Request a booth along the side walls when booking if a quieter table is preferred
- Plateau de fruits de mer for groups of four or more should be ordered the previous day by phone
- Walk-ins are generally accepted at breakfast and after 21:00 without a reservation
Accessibility
La Cigale is at street level on Place Graslin with step-free entry from the pavement. The main ground-floor dining room is accessible to wheelchair users. The mezzanine level is reached by a staircase; contact the restaurant in advance to arrange ground-floor seating.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
Why was La Cigale classified as a historic monument?
The 1895 Art Nouveau interior — hand-painted ceramic panels, gilded mosaics, and mahogany mouldings — was classified in 1964 as a monument historique. The protection covers the decorative fit-out in its entirety.
What are the must-order dishes at La Cigale?
The plateau de fruits de mer is the signature choice, showcasing Atlantic oysters, langoustines, and crab. The millefeuille is widely regarded as the best dessert on the menu.
Do I need a reservation?
Reservations are recommended for lunch and dinner, especially on weekends. Breakfast and late-evening visits are usually possible as walk-ins. Phone +33 2 51 84 94 94 to book.
How do I reach La Cigale from Nantes central station?
La Cigale is on Place Graslin, roughly ten minutes on foot from the main train station or one stop on tram Lines 1 or 2 to Commerce, then a short walk uphill toward Place Graslin.
Is La Cigale suitable for families with children?
Yes — the brasserie is family-friendly and serves dishes suited to younger diners. The historic interior typically makes a strong impression on children.