Chez Etienne

Chez Etienne is a cash-only pizzeria at 43 Rue de Lorette in Le Panier, the oldest quarter of Marseille, in the 2nd arrondissement, in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region of France. The restaurant has operated since 1943 and is regarded as one of the classic pizza addresses of the city, serving Marseille-style pizza alongside Italian-Provençal dishes. The most emblematic order is the moit-moit pizza, which is half anchovy and half cheese, and the menu also includes seafood spaghetti, fried supions (baby squid) and aubergine parmesan. The pizzas are cooked in a wood-fired oven and are known for thin crusts and generous toppings. Prices are low for a sit-down meal: the 2026 tourism listing gives EUR 16-40 (about $18-46) à la carte, and Gault&Millau cites about EUR 23 (about $26) per person excluding drinks. The room is small and cramped, with tightly packed tables, and the atmosphere is loud, lively and informal, with casual dress and a clientele of locals, families and visitors. Payment is by cash and cheques only, with no cards listed, so visitors should bring cash. Wines are simple, typically Provençal rosé and red by the glass or pitcher, matched to the pizza. According to the tourism listing, flagged as unconfirmed, the restaurant serves Monday to Saturday from 12:00 to 14:00 and from 20:00 to 23:00, and is closed on Sunday. Walk-ins are common, which means evenings can involve a long wait without a booking, while an early lunch avoids the queue. For groups, reservations can be arranged by phone on +33 6 16 39 78 73. The restaurant is a short walk from the Vieux-Port through the steep, narrow streets of Le Panier, which are lined with small galleries, craft shops and the Vieille Charité, so a meal can be combined with an afternoon exploring the quarter. Step-free access to the small room is not confirmed.