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Aix-en-Provence › Aix-en-Provence › RESTAURANT CHEZ NINE
RESTAURANT CHEZ NINEB+Worth Trying
22 BIS Rue du 11 Novembre, 13100 Aix-en-Provence, France
· Restaurant, Italian restaurant, Mediterranean restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (350 reviews)
Reservations
Cozy cellar restaurant run by a warm duo serving handmade pastas and hearty meats in a romantic setting, with standout dishes and fair pricing but service can be slow at peak times.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Chez Nine delivers strong food quality with handmade pastas and generous portions that justify its reputation as a hidden gem in central Aix. However, inconsistent execution—particularly oversalting and recent service delays—prevents a higher grade. The intimate stone cellar setting and owner-led hospitality create genuine warmth, but operational variability on busy nights undermines the overall experience for diners seeking reliable fine dining.
Restaurant Summary
Down a side street and into a stone cellar, this spot feels warm and intimate without trying too hard. Guests praise the owner’s personal touch and a room that reads like a tiny wine cave. One diner summed it up: service is kind and the plates arrive looking handmade. However, expect a relaxed rhythm — on busy nights, pacing can slip. The cooking leans Italian with comfort-first instincts and a few playful detours: silky ravioli, pulled lamb, filet au poivre, and fresh pastas that sometimes carry a curry or coconut-chili accent. Portions are generous, desserts like tiramisu win fans, and pricing feels fair for central Aix. It suits diners who want thoughtful plates over flash. Families can do well here thanks to pastas, simple meats, and classic desserts. There is no explicit kids menu, but options like tagliatelle or a plain steak should work. For younger palates, consider early evening when the room is calm and unhurried.
At a Glance
- Romantic cellar ambiance with owner-led warmth
- Handmade pastas and hearty meats deliver strong flavors
- Service pacing can be very slow at peak times
- Some dishes reported overly salty on off nights
- Small team means availability may vary and items can run out
What Sets It Apart
- romantic_stone_cellar
- owner_led_hospitality
- creative_twists_on_italian
What People Love
- Intimate cave-like setting
- Genuine owner hospitality
- Silky handmade pasta textures
- Memorable tiramisu and rich lamb
Points of Concern
- Service delays reported from 45 to 100 minutes on busy nights; staff may appear overwhelmed
- Occasional oversalting of tartare and pasta mentioned by a minority of diners
- Item availability can be limited; some wines and dishes unavailable on certain nights
- Review patterns are consistent with potential coordination (high 5-star share, repeated hidden gem phrasing) which may not reflect every experience
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost€42-58 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Start with burrata or foie gras, choose a handmade pasta or lamb for mains, and finish with tiramisu; plan €45-55 per person before wine.
Perfect For
- Date night in a cozy cellar
- Relaxed vacation dinner with generous portions
- Small celebrations with wine and classic desserts
- Pasta-focused meal off the main drag
Location Insights
Area: Historic center with cobblestone lanes, boutique shopping, galleries, and a strong café culture; popular with visitors and locals.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, and busy into the evening; normal city-center awareness applies.
Nearby: Near Cours Mirabeau, museums, and shops; dense dining options and bars within short walk.
Centre VilleCentre Ville is the historic and commercial heart of Aix-en-Provence, characterized by narrow streets, charming squares, and a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants. The dining scene here is diverse, ranging from traditional Provençal eateries to contemporary and international cuisine, attracting a mix of visitors seeking both casual and refined dining experiences.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday07:00–22:00
Wednesday07:00–22:00
Thursday07:00–22:00
Friday19:00–00:00
Saturday07:00–23:00
Sunday
Available: Reservations
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