
Shot by a City Insiders curator.
JAN is the kind of place where South African soul meets French Riviera finesse, all tucked into a tiny 20-seat room behind Nice's old port. Chef Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen brings his farm-to-table philosophy from Middelburg to 12 Rue Lascaris, crafting dishes that feel both personal and precise. You'll find yourself savoring things like melktert and bobotie reimagined with local Provençal ingredients—it's a conversation between two culinary worlds, and you're invited to the table.
A South African Soul Meets French Riviera Finesse
JAN is easily one of the most exciting restaurants on the French Riviera, and it's not hard to see why it's earned its Michelin star. The space is intimate—only 20 seats—so you're always close to the action, watching the team work with a quiet precision that feels almost meditative. The menu is a dialogue between Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen's South African roots and the local produce of the Côte d'Azur. You might start with something like biltong-inspired amuse-bouches, move through dishes that highlight seasonal vegetables or fish from nearby waters, and finish with a melktert that somehow feels both nostalgic and brand new.
The service is polished but never stiff, with staff who clearly understand the food they're serving and can guide you through the experience without being overbearing. Reservations are essential—this place fills up fast, especially with the growing buzz around it. If you're in Nice and want to eat somewhere that feels truly special, this is it. Just be prepared to spend a bit; it's fine dining, but the quality and creativity justify the price.