Low-cost, ethical tips
In Marseille, there are great low-cost, ethical deals to be found, and they’re appreciated by locals and newcomers alike. Nearly 40% of locals know about Too Good To Go, the app that lets you pick up unsold food at reduced prices. It’s a convenient and affordable way to cut down on food waste while supporting local businesses. You’ll find amazing offers on restaurant meals and groceries from participating supermarkets, bakeries, and grocery shops.
If you’re looking for more variety and a spirit of solidarity, head to Super Cafoutch. You can pick up low price boxes of fruit and veg, but take note: it’s a short-supply-chain cooperative supermarket! You therefore have to contribute financially (10 euro registration fee for under 26-year olds) and also give your time to help out in the supermarket (3 hours every 4 weeks). The supermarket has a shared governance model, where time invested equals decision-making power! Although this approach requires a bit of time and energy, it remains an excellent way to consume more mindfully and responsibly, and at a lower cost.
If you like buying things in bulk, you can buy dry goods at low prices and regardless of your economic status through the VRAC Marseille network. It’s a great way to shop sustainably without going over your budget.
Le Carillon is an association which organises ‘pending meals’ at its partner shops and businesses. This means you pay for your meal and for an extra one, which will be donated to someone in need! Of course, you can benefit from these meals if you find yourself in a difficult situation financially. Some cultural institutions offer something similar: the Théâtre Nationale de la Criée and Cinéma Les Variétés offer pending tickets for performances and film screenings. Many cafés and bars embrace this approach too. So don’t hesitate to make the most of it, or if you’re in a position to, help others to benefit!
If you want to get involved in nature-friendly activities, Le Talus (rue Saint-Pierre) offers the opportunity to harvest your own vegetables and take part in gardening sessions in exchange for fresh produce: a great way to embrace a greener and more community-based way of consuming.
The Secours Catholique in Belsunce, for its part, gives out food parcels and organises pay-what-you-can meals, a convivial and accessible solution for those in need.
If you’d like to meet people whilst also discovering a bit of local culture, try Le Chapiteau in La Belle de Mai. Its events blend concerts, farmers’ markets and shared meals, offering a moment of relaxation and solidarity.
The places we’ve mentioned in this article are often discreet, but they reflect the real spirit of Marseille. They’re places where solidarity, economy and local life come together, and where everyone can feel at home. Whether you’re a long-term Marseille resident or newly-arrived, these ethical, budget-friendly options are there to help you integrate and enjoy the city in a different way.
Header photo : Léa PRADEL
