Whenever we step off the cruise ship at Port Hercule in Monaco, we’re already thinking about our first destination: the Marché de la Condamine. Leaving behind the gleaming yachts and high-rise glamour, we’re ready to dive into a different side of Monaco.
It’s just a short walk from the terminal, around ten minutes, and on our way, we pass by a statue of the legendary Argentine Formula 1 driver, Juan Manuel “El Chueco” Fangio. Fangio’s racing legacy is something extraordinary, he won five World Championships in four different teams, a feat that has yet to be matched. Seeing his statue there, in the heart of Monaco, always reminds us of how deeply this place is connected to the history of racing.
Arriving at the market feels like stepping into a vibrant, timeless space. Marché de la Condamine is an eclectic blend of old and new, with bustling stalls full of fresh produce, local delicacies, and warm smiles from vendors. There’s an energy here, a hum of conversation and laughter, from locals and travelers alike.
Our first stop is always the socca stand. This savory chickpea pancake, cooked until it’s crispy on the edges and soft in the middle, is one of the market’s specialties. We like to add a sprinkle of black pepper on top and head to the bar next to the socca baker with our freshly baked treat. There’s something special about sitting down with a glass of champagne or Prosecco, enjoying our socca, and watching the lively market scene around us. The socca‘s slightly smoky, earthy flavor goes perfectly with the bubbles, a pairing that has become one of our favorite Monaco rituals.
When it’s time for lunch, our destination is Truffles Bistrot. Tucked into a cozy corner of the market, this Italian-run gem has become our go-to spot for a relaxed, delicious meal. For appetizers, we have two favorites we like to alternate between: the steak tartare with shaved truffles and the burrata with prosciutto and, of course, truffles. The steak tartare is wonderfully tender and flavorful, while the creamy burrata pairs beautifully with the prosciutto‘s salty richness. The truffles elevate both dishes, bringing an earthy, aromatic depth that makes each bite feel special.
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For the main course, we almost always choose the rigatoni carbonara with summer truffles. Since we visit in the summer, we’re lucky enough to enjoy the truffles at their peak season. This carbonara is pure indulgence—rich, creamy, and topped with fragrant, fresh truffle shavings. If we’re in the mood for something lighter, we sometimes share the truffle pizza, which is simple yet packed with flavor, featuring a thin, crispy crust that lets the truffles shine.
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With lunch, we usually indulge in just one more glass of Prosecco. While the wine list is tempting, Prosecco‘s light, refreshing bubbles pair so perfectly with the richness of the truffles, making it hard to choose anything else. It’s the ideal finish to a relaxed, flavorful meal, and something we look forward to on every visit.
After lunch, we take a final stroll around the market, soaking in the lively atmosphere. Marché de la Condamine is a place where we feel like we’re experiencing the heart of Monaco—authentic, welcoming, and full of life. It’s a tradition we cherish, and we know it won’t be long before we’re back for another taste.
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World traveler in the quest of the authentic flavours from wherever the ship takes me.