Zitto Speakeasy

In Dante's language, Zitto means 'shush', and that is the whole premise of this hidden bar that has revolutionised Nice's nightlife scene since opening in 2023. Nestled in a vaulted cellar at the port of Nice, in the former premises of a nightclub supposedly haunted, according to local legend, by the Nice mafia of the 1950s, Zitto is accessible only to the initiated: you must first find the address on Instagram, obtain the evening's password, then pass through a concealed door hidden at the back of a restaurant.

The Holy Banana studio created a décor of rare sensory richness: exposed brick, leather and velvet armchairs, draperies, candles, whimsical animal wallpapers, low vaulted ceilings. Everything conspires to recreate the intimacy of Prohibition's clandestine salons, in a resolutely Italian version, the soul of the Paloma family group that runs the venue.

Signature Cocktails

Mixologist Guillaume is Zitto's centrepiece. Trained at Paloma beach in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, he has created an entirely seasonal menu, renewed several times a year, that pushes the boundaries of mixology. Iconic creations include: L'Occhiolino (Jalapeño-infused tequila, mango, wakame seaweed), Le Cleary Punch (rum, pineapple, peppercorn, banana espuma), L'Assaggio (mezcal, sage-infused Aperol), and the spectacular Bacon Fashioned served under a beech wood smoke cloche. Italian antipasti are offered with every round, a Paloma group tradition.

Atmosphere

Confidential, hushed and utterly addictive. Light enters only through a few candles and special bottle illumination. Music stays gentle, conducive to conversation. The venue hosts only a handful of guests at a time, creating an intimacy rare in Nice. Mixology workshops with Guillaume are available, €35/person, 1 hour, by reservation.

Pricing

Signature cocktails €14-16. Non-alcoholic from €10. Antipasti offered with each order. Mixology workshop: €35/person. Reservation or privatisation possible Monday-Tuesday on request.

Visitor reviews

Highlights: Visitors unanimously praise the exceptional nature of the venue, the 'hidden bar' experience is lived as a genuine adventure. Guillaume's cocktails are described as among the most creative and best-executed on the entire Côte d'Azur. The Prohibition atmosphere and intimacy are regularly cited as unforgettable moments. The highly personalised service, Guillaume often invents a bespoke cocktail based on your preferences, is universally appreciated.

Areas for improvement: The very limited capacity means it can be difficult to secure a spot without booking well in advance, especially in high season. The Instagram-based access process can confuse travellers less familiar with social media.

Overall impression: Zitto is unquestionably the most original and memorable bar experience in Nice. An address you jealously keep to yourself, and then share anyway, because it's too good not to mention.