Marseille, a vibrant port city on the southern coast of France, is often celebrated for its Mediterranean charm and rich cultural history. Yet, despite its allure, this ancient city frequently remains overshadowed by more popular French destinations. In an effort to shine a light on Marseille’s unique culinary landscape, filmmaker and native Marseillaise Vérane Frédiani has authored a new cookbook titled Taste the World in Marseille.
Frédiani’s work invites readers to explore the diverse neighborhoods and storied past of Marseille through its food. The cookbook, filled with stunning photography and engaging narratives, serves as both a culinary guide and a travelogue, showcasing the city’s vibrant culinary traditions. Published by La Martinière, the book has quickly become a bestseller, reflecting the growing interest in Marseille’s food scene.
In her book, Frédiani draws from her childhood experiences and conversations with local chefs, illustrating how Marseille has emerged as a culinary hotspot. Despite facing challenges related to social issues and violence, the city has transformed into a fashionable destination, attracting food lovers from around the globe.
During a recent interview at an outdoor café in the Nouailles district, often referred to as the “belly of Marseille,” Frédiani shared her passion for her hometown. The bustling market scene here is a testament to the city’s multicultural fabric, where vendors sell fresh produce and spices, many of which are influenced by African and Asian cuisines. Frédiani emphasizes that her cookbook celebrates this diversity, showcasing the flavors that define Marseille.
Reflecting on her childhood, Frédiani recalls hearing phrases like, “Marseille is not France,” which left her puzzled and frustrated. However, she has come to embrace this sentiment as a reflection of the city’s multicultural identity. Founded by the Greeks over 2,500 years ago, Marseille has always been a melting pot of cultures, and Frédiani’s own family heritage—rooted in Italy and Tunisia—epitomizes this blend.
In her view, Marseille differs from other French cities in its welcoming spirit. “You don’t have to be in Marseille for generations to call yourself a Marseillais,” she explains. The city has an inclusive nature, where newcomers can quickly feel at home. “Everybody comes from somewhere else. Everybody is Marseillais within five minutes. The moment you arrive here and you like it here, you are Marseillais,” she adds.
Among the chefs featured in Taste the World in Marseille is Hugues Mbenda, a 35-year-old French Congolese chef who opened his restaurant in Marseille five years ago. Known for his innovative approach to cuisine, Mbenda’s establishment has become a staple in the local dining scene, reflecting the city’s evolving gastronomic landscape.
Frédiani’s cookbook not only highlights recipes but also delves into the stories behind them, weaving together personal anecdotes and culinary histories. The book serves as a testament to the resilience and creativity of Marseille’s chefs, who are redefining French cuisine by incorporating global influences.
As Marseille continues to grow in popularity, Frédiani hopes that her cookbook will inspire readers to explore the city’s culinary offerings and appreciate its rich cultural heritage. The vibrant markets, diverse neighborhoods, and innovative chefs all contribute to a dining experience that is uniquely Marseille.
Through Taste the World in Marseille, Frédiani aims to change perceptions of her city, inviting people to experience its flavors and stories firsthand. With each recipe, she encourages readers to embark on a culinary journey that reflects the heart and soul of Marseille—a city that thrives on diversity and creativity.
As the culinary scene in Marseille continues to flourish, Frédiani’s work stands as a celebration of the city’s identity, a reminder that food is a universal language that brings people together. Whether you are a seasoned chef or a curious home cook, Taste the World in Marseille offers a delicious gateway to understanding this enchanting city through its food.
