Derrière l'Abbaye

Tucked behind Marseille's imposing Abbaye Saint-Victor and a short walk from the Vieux-Port, Derrière l'Abbaye is a cocktail and tapas bar that pairs inventive drinks with Mediterranean-inspired small plates.

Occupying the former Les Membres premises at 1 rue de l'Abbaye, the bar takes its name from its location immediately behind one of Marseille's best-known historic landmarks. The setting features exposed stone, warm lighting and a discreet entrance, creating an intimate atmosphere away from the busier waterfront.

Cocktails are central to the offering, with five house signatures showcasing a combination of familiar spirits, Mediterranean flavours and more adventurous ingredients. Le Septième Ciel mixes gin with Italicus bergamot liqueur, blue curaçao, lime, orange blossom and tonic, while Rideau Rouge takes a tropical direction, combining rum, Aperol, passion fruit, mango, lime and bitters.

Those seeking something less conventional might consider Le Confessionnal, which brings together chilli-infused tequila, melon liqueur, banana–kiwi syrup and lime. Baiser Volé combines white rum, pineapple, coconut, vanilla and lime, while Madame Abbaye offers a more bittersweet combination of rosemary-infused Suze, apricot liqueur and lime.

The food menu follows a similarly Mediterranean direction, with tapas designed for sharing over drinks. Dishes featured include beef and sesame tuna tataki, roasted aubergine, burrata, swordfish ceviche and a bun filled with slow-cooked lamb. Cheese and charcuterie boards provide more traditional accompaniments.