Beyond Bouillabaisse: Diving into Marseille’s Multicultural Stew

I would give more stars if I could. We did this tour with Severine. It was a fabulous tour with a wonderful guide. Severine is passionate about her city and the diverse influences over its long history that have made it the edgy, vibrant, multicultural city that it is today. Severine not only introduced us to many different kinds of food, but through our bellies we learnt about the history of Marseille. We walked a little through some busy commercial centres and quiet back streets - good to walk between eating engagements! - and learnt a little about the architecture and the cultural influences that gave rise to it. We sampled so much fresh and wonderful food, all selected by Severine at each stop so that we could be sure we were eating the best and freshest. We ate seafood, many different kinds of pastries, both sweet and savory, some of which we could see being made in front of us. There were many kinds of cheeses, meat, fresh fruits and cold drinks. As aficionados of food tours (eg Rome, Athens …) this one is up there with the best. And the name says it all - it goes beyond bouillabaisse and really does dive into Marseille’s multicultural stew. Luckily we have some more time in Marseille because we want to visit again some of the places Severine introduced to us. I doubt we would have found them by ourselves, but now we know where they are we will be going back! We highly recommend this tour to the cultural and food-curious.

Amazing tour by Coco! We went to places we definitely would never have found ourselves and got to know lots of the history of Marseilles, as well as taste some amazing food! We loved Marseilles and hope to come back - highly recommend!

We had a wonderful experience with Coco! We came away from the experience having tried a wide range of foods from several locations around town. All throughout, the history of Marseille was woven through the conversation. We also saw various historic sights and neighborhoods, really a complete experience for which we are very grateful!

What an incredible tour! Sevrein is a fabulous host, her love for Marseille shined through. I learned so much and got to experience so many different cultures that are emblematic of Marseille’s fabric. My only regret is I didn’t fast the day before. Because even though I paced myself there was so much delicious food. I don’t want to give too much away of the tour, but GO!

Incredible. This was my first Culinary Backstreet Tour and it certainly won’t be my last. Sevrien is an amazing host. Her love for Marseille came out on every stop. I learned so much and saw so many places I would not have gone to. And the food-wow!!!! I feel like I should have fasted the day before in preparation. We had a great group and felt like I made a bunch of new friends. This tour is the reason one travels!