There are some places you almost hesitate to share, as they still feel like a well-kept secret. Located at the foot of the ramparts of Antibes, just a stone’s throw from La Gravette beach, Nykat Beach is one of them. This new venue elegantly combines Mediterranean cuisine, live music and the Côte d’Azur lifestyle. Its opening brings a breath of fresh air to Old Antibes.
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In a city where there are plenty of good restaurants, Nykat Plage stands out thanks to a concept that goes beyond that of a mere restaurant. Located just a stone’s throw from the Vauban Harbour, the venue boasts a contemporary identity that blends cuisine, a friendly atmosphere and live music. An intimate cocktail bar, designed in the spirit of the speakeasies (originally speakeasies that sprang up in the United States during the Prohibition era) will soon be added to the experience.
An atmosphere combining seaside elegance and live music
As soon as you walk in, the décor sets the tone. Designed by the Nice-based architect Steve Baldini, the space evokes an elegant beach house. Walnut wood, natural materials and sand beneath your feet combine to create a warm and refined atmosphere. In the centre of the room, a white piano serves as a reminder that music plays a central role here, whilst a spectacular ceiling mirror casts light patterns that transform the space as the evening progresses.
Mediterranean cuisine brought to life by some truly talented chefs
In the kitchen, the chef Thomas Vado creates a menu inspired by the shores of the Mediterranean. Originally from Saint-Paul-de-Vence and deeply attached to the Côte d’Azur, he showcases seasonal produce whilst incorporating influences from further afield. Among his signature dishes is a ceviche a bar topped with a lick strawberry and chilli tiger cake guajillo, or a duck with Kampot pepper, glazed with honey and served with coconut carrot purée.
The sweet part is entrusted to Manon Gouin. Winner of the Lebey Prize the best chocolate dessert in 2024, followed by the Passion Dessert Prize (co-created by the Michelin Guide and Valrhona in 2019) in 2025, she creates desserts that are as meticulously crafted as they are indulgent. Her chocolate mousse with an iced peanut centre and her smoked ‘île flottante’ with Tahitian vanilla demonstrate a fine technical mastery that evokes emotion.
The wine list focuses on French estates, whilst the cocktails draw inspiration from the colours, scents and flavours of the Mediterranean coast. With its stylish setting, music programme and ambitious yet understated cuisine, Nykat Plage has everything it takes to establish itself as one of the Riviera’s new must-visit destinations.
Address
24 Rue Aubernon,
06600 Antibes
www.nykat.com
https://www.instagram.com/nykat.antibes/
Text : Laurence Grémy-Flamand
Photos : Nykat and Laurence Grémy-Flamand
