Nice, April 1, 2025 – This is an announcement that will make history on the Cours Saleya: starting this summer, the former flower market will be replaced by a true fish market, where Nice’s fishermen will come to sell their products directly to residents and local restaurateurs.
A strong decision made by Christian Estrosi, mayor of Nice and president of the Nice Côte d’Azur Metropolis, who wishes to return to an ancient maritime tradition. “We have heard the requests of the people of Nice and the sea professionals. From July 1, 2025, the Cours Saleya will become the Nice Fish Market, allowing consumers to buy ultra-fresh fish and seafood at affordable prices.”
Attractive prices for the people of Nice
This transformation also aims to combat food inflation. According to INSEE, the price of fish has increased by 18% in three years in France. With this new fish market, the people of Nice will be able to buy Mediterranean sea bass at €15/kg compared to €25/kg currently on the stalls, or even local prawns at €22/kg, a decrease of 35% compared to usual prices.
The project is planned to be organized in two phases:
- Every morning from 6 a.m., local fishermen will offer their daily catch in a refrigerated hall set up on the square.
- From 10 a.m., Nice chefs will cook the unsold products to offer tastings at mini prices to passersby.
“This is a unique opportunity to reconnect with our maritime heritage,” rejoiced the president of the Baie des Anges Fishermen’s Union.
The market vendors, initially surprised by this announcement, have received the news with mixed enthusiasm. While some fear a loss of clientele, others see an opportunity to attract a new wave of visitors.
The meeting is set for July 1, the official inauguration date of the Nice Fish Market, in the presence of many starred chefs and local maritime figures.
Your critical sense has surely realized that this is an April Fool’s joke!
A.C.
