“Ever heard of a restaurant so grand it needed its own fish reserve?” That is the story of the Montée de Roubion. Our journey begins with a tale of culinary ambition. It also involves a city’s changing landscape.
The Montée de Roubion today is a street. However its story is linked to a legendary establishment: La Réserve. This was once the most luxurious hotel-restaurant in Marseille.
In 1860 a renowned restaurateur named Roubion decided to move his business. He left his restaurant near the Vieux-Port. He built a palace hotel-restaurant on the Corniche. He called it La Réserve. It became a landmark. It was halfway between the viaduct of Maldorme and the beaches of Prado.
La Réserve was famed for its opulence. But its unique feature was its vivier. This was a fish reserve. It was built to ensure the freshest seafood for its patrons. Imagine a constant supply of the finest crustaceans. These were destined for bouillabaisse and other fish specialties.
Getting to La Réserve was easy. Tram lines 82 and 83 served the area. They ran every 15 minutes. This was from early morning until late evening. Guests could also enjoy a pleasant walk. They could take in the magnificent sea views.
As they approached the palace visitors would notice small huts nestled in the rocks. These would later disappear. This was during the Corniche’s expansion in the 1950s. To the right was the restaurant’s vivier filled with marine life.
In 1938 the vivier was sold. It was transformed into a swimming pool. This benefitted the Dauphins swimming club. Initially the pool used seawater. It was open to the sky. Over time the facilities were modified. Today the club still exists. It boasts a closed freshwater pool.
La Réserve thrived until the mid-20th century. It faced decline after World War II. Despite nearly a century of glory it closed in 1969. In 1970 the building was demolished. No one protested its destruction. This cleared the way for a high-end residential complex. It was also named La Réserve.
Today only the name remains. The Montée de Roubion might seem like just another street. Yet it echoes with the memory of Marseille’s most luxurious palace. La Réserve contributed much to the festive atmosphere of the Corniche. The Montée de Roubion now stands as a reminder of what once was.