Lou Pilha Leva is one of the essential Niçois eating experiences — a no-frills street food institution in the old town serving socca, pissaladière, and other Niçois staples at communal outdoor tables. Order at the counter, take a number, and wait for your name to be called. The socca arrives directly from the oven in slices on a paper plate, dusted with pepper, eaten standing or at one of the long shared tables.
The food is cheap and good; this is not haute cuisine but the real thing, popular with locals as much as tourists. Lou Pilha Leva also does panisse (fried chickpea fritters), socca-based sandwiches, and local wines by the glass. Come before noon or expect a wait; the terrace fills quickly from mid-morning.