Eat out
Enjoy the local favourite, mussels and chips, at any number of restaurants here, its France’s biggest fishing port so as you’d expect – fish features high on the menu.
Rue de Lille with Place Godefroy Bouillon (named after a local lord who departed from the port of Boulogne in 1096 to lead the first Crusade and was made King of Jerusalem) at one end and the Basilica at the other end, is lined with shops and restaurants, some of which are open all day.
Wine & Dine: La Matelote. Father and son chef team Tony and Stellio Lestienne (above) cook the most classic dishes as well as delicious and innovative food. The restaurant has held a Michelin star for an astonishing 40 years and is famous for its seafood platters. It’s also a lovely hotel with great views over the harbour. www.la-matelote.com
Authentic and fishy: Le Chatillon. Rub shoulders with fishermen, port workers and sailors at the legendary and authentic Le Chatillon. This quirky restaurant, decked out to look like a ship with wood panelled walls, ships lamps and sails on the ceiling is well-known to the French for its fishy melange called “Parillada”, mixed grilled fish and seafood marinated in garlic and olive oil. The bar opens at 04.00 and it’s a firm favourite with locals for the fresh and very tasty food and great prices. Check the website for details (the restaurant is closed Saturdays) and book in advance if you can as this place is very popular with locals. Find it in the fishing district called Capécure. www.Le-Chatillon.com
Locals love: Chez Jules, Place Dalton where the market is held.
Aperitif hour...
The Vole Hole in rue de Lille is tiny but perfect, housed in the oldest building in the town, the little wine bar with friendly staff has tables spilling onto the pavement opposite the Basilica.