Located on the luxurious terrace of Château de Théoule, Mareluna Restaurant strikes the perfect balance between sophistication and warmth. Led by Chef Francesco Fezza, who hails from Italy’s vibrant Campania region and honed his craft in Paris, Mareluna is bound for success.
From the moment we stepped into Mareluna, we immediately noted the elegant, yet unpretentious ambiance, as well as the attentive service that immediately made us feel at home. This restaurant has all the hallmarks of a Michelin-starred restaurant, the staff were incredibly kind to our son, ensuring that he felt just as special as we did, which is always a much-appreciated touch.
Our dinner at Mareluna was spectacular, with each dish showcasing Chef Fezza’s mastery of flavors and presentation. We loved the crispy red mullet served with a rich seafood sauce. They suggested our son use the extra to dip his bread in, which he loved. The escargot delicately paired with bottarga and samphire was a beautiful blend of textures and tastes, capturing the essence of the sea in every bite.
However, the dish that truly stole our hearts (and our son’s) was the cuttlefish pasta. It was also packed with bold flavors. The cuttlefish ragu, made with the innards of the cuttlefish, was rich and umami-packed, with a hint of lemon and wasabi. This dish alone is worth a visit to Mareluna.
One of the most impressive aspects of our meal was Chef Fezza’s commitment to avoiding food waste. This ethos was evident in the oyster dish, where the less aesthetically pleasing parts of the oyster were dressed creatively and served in a stunning ceramic oyster shell. It’s rare to see such thoughtful attention to sustainability in fine dining.
Accompanying our meal were the most extraordinary rolls, made from laminated pastry and olive oil. These rolls were a masterpiece—flaky, buttery, and utterly addictive. They set the tone for the rest of the meal, showcasing the Mareluna team’s dedication to excellence in even the smallest details.
What truly sets Mareluna apart is the care they show for all their guests, regardless of age. Before dessert, our son was presented with a plate of strawberries garnished with gold leaf, a thoughtful gesture that made him feel special. Since the desserts on the menu incorporated cotton candy, they went the extra mile and brought him his very own fluffy white cloud of sweetness. These gestures made our dining experience not just about the food, but about the joy of sharing time together as a family.
Mareluna is more than just a place to eat; it’s a destination in itself. Chef Francesco Fezza has created a menu that is both innovative and rooted in tradition, with a focus on sustainability that is as commendable as it is delicious. Whether you’re staying at Château de Théoule or simply seeking an extraordinary dining experience on the Côte d’Azur, Mareluna is a must-visit.
Note: Mareluna provided support for the reporting of this story.