Japanese restaurants

Ma Yucca

A 22-seat kitchen run by Eleni & Yassine, serving the dishes their grandmothers argued about on Tuesday nights in Kreuzberg.

26 Rue de la Buffa, 06000 Nice, France €30–40
4.7
706 notes from regulars
01 The story, in three paragraphs

Why everyone keeps coming back.

Nestled in the heart of Nice at 26 Rue de la Buffa, Ma Yucca is a distinctive gem that brilliantly fuses authentic Japanese flavors with subtle French influences, offering an extraordinary culinary experience for lovers of Asian and French cuisine alike. This intimate restaurant welcomes diners into a cozy, minimalist setting where the atmosphere perfectly complements the delicate artistry of each dish.

Ma Yucca’s menu showcases an inspired selection of starters such as the refreshing Salade Ma Yucca, available in petite and grande portions. This vibrant salad features a medley of mesclun greens, sweet poivrons, crisp haricots verts, and tender tomatoes, all perfectly balanced with flavorful seaweed and a nutty sesame dressing. For a taste that truly excites, the Rouleau Printemps Aux Crevettes is a standout. These shrimp spring rolls are served with a fragrant sesame sauce that enhances the sweetness of the seafood and the fresh crunch of greens, creating an elegant harmony of textures and flavors.

Diners who appreciate a thoughtfully curated drink selection will find comfort in Ma Yucca’s offering of classic Japanese beers such as Kirin and Asahi, both priced at €6.00. For wine enthusiasts, the Domaine Olivier Hillaire Côte du Rhône 2021 provides a rich, full-bodied red that beautifully complements the menu’s delicate balances.

The true highlight of Ma Yucca, however, lies in its exquisite main plates and desserts, praised by many loyal guests. One cannot miss the Chirashi salmon, prized for its perfectly seasoned vinegar rice paired with silky, fresh salmon – a dish that has repeatedly impressed visitors with its refined, harmonious taste. For dessert, the Chocolate Fondant with Matcha Ice Cream is an absolute revelation. Sweet Angel10’s glowing review perfectly captures the magic: a fondant “perfectly cooked” with molten chocolate that melts in your mouth alongside the earthy creaminess of matcha – a vivid journey for the senses.

Guest reviews consistently underline the authenticity and high quality of Ma Yucca’s cuisine. From passionate food lovers who call it “maybe the best Japanese restaurant I have ever been outside Japan” to those who celebrate its excellent value lunch menu, this restaurant delivers on both flavor and experience. Bettie Liu’s mention of “really good food and nice service” and DaPiePiece’s admiration for the food quality paired with a unique ambiance featuring Ghibli OST piano covers further elevate the dining experience beyond just the plate.

Whether you are seeking a quiet yet vibrant culinary escape for lunch or an elegant dinner infused with thoughtful Japanese and French touches, Ma Yucca stands out as an unmissable destination in Nice. The seamless blend of delicate Asian techniques, fresh ingredients, and a welcoming atmosphere make every visit a memorable voyage through refined taste and genuine hospitality.

For reservations or inquiries, Ma Yucca can be reached at +33 4 93 88 39 84.

03 Notes from regulars

706 notes — the real pulse of the room.

4.7
Based on 706 verified notes
5 582
4 106
3 16
2 9
1 12
All Katsu Don Chocolate Fondant Nice Setting Creme Brulee Dessert Fusion Sushis Nicois Carpaccio Refined Cuisine Sushi De Boeuf
Bettie Liu.
4 month ago
really good food (especially photo 1)and nice service
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Nanita.
5 month ago
Ma Yucca offers authentic Japanese food while remaining true to where it is based in Nice. There is a lunch menu available even on Saturdays that is an excellent value - miso soup, starter, main and dessert for €28. I had the mini dumplings to start followed by a nicely sized piece of salmon followed by a pear tart on a ground nut base. My guest started with the salad, had salmon chirashi next and the rice pudding for dessert. Two thumbs up for each of his dishes. Everything tasted fresh and the portions were just right. Reservations are recommended. Highly recommend this Japanese restaurant for its fish, for its starters and desserts.
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Chista Nadimi.
5 month ago
Maybe the best japanese restaurant I have even been outsdie Japan.
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Sweet Angel10.
5 month ago
It was a pleasant evening. I had the Chirashi salmon served with vinegar rice, then the Chocolate Fondant with Matcha ice-cream. It was delightful!!! One of the best fondant: perfectly cooked and the melted chocolate was truly amazing! The Umeshu sake was perfectly chilled. The service was quick. I’ll be back for their Fondant 10/10
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DaPiePiece.
5 month ago
Amazing restaurant! The quality of the food is outstanding for its price. I highly recommend it. The only downside I can find is the exterior of the restaurant, but that's just the consequences of construction. I also enjoyed the Ghibli OST piano covers they played. Good taste.
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David Breisch.
6 month ago
Outstanding meal. Beef tartare, duck breast and chocolate fondant. The staff was friendly and spoke English. Easily one of the best meals of my trip.
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San San Tso.
6 month ago
Small menu but food was Better than expected. I had vegan gyudon
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K B.
6 month ago
I first went here with a group of friends then I returned with the family after a few days. We all enjoyed the great food - fresh, delicious and good portions. Service can be a bit slow but have a Lychee cocktail while waiting, then it's all fine. Reservation is a must.
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04 When to visit & how to find us

Hours & the door on Bergmannstraße.

Opening hours
Monday Closed
Tuesday (today) 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM 07:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Wednesday 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM 07:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Thursday 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM 07:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Friday 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM 07:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Saturday 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM 07:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Sunday Closed
Finding the door

26 Rue de la Buffa, 06000 Nice, France

05 What makes this place friendly

The details you usually have to call and ask.

Service options
  • Takeout
  • Dine-in
Highlights
  • Great tea selection
Popular for
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Solo dining
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible seating
  • No Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Offerings
  • Alcohol
  • Beer
  • Cocktails
  • Coffee
  • Hard liquor
  • Healthy options
  • Vegetarian options
  • Wine
Dining options
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Catering
  • Dessert
  • Table service
Amenities
  • Restroom
Atmosphere
  • Casual
  • Cozy
  • Quiet
  • Trendy
Crowd
  • Groups
  • Tourists
Planning
  • Lunch reservations recommended
  • Reservations required
  • Dinner reservations recommended
  • Accepts reservations
Payments
  • Credit cards
  • Debit cards
  • NFC mobile payments
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