Gyoza & starters
Pan-fried Japanese dumplings, edamame, miso-glazed aubergine: the small plates that open the meal.
Japanese restaurant · Marseille 13001
A Japanese restaurant in the 13001 in Marseille
At 27 rue Sainte, right in the first arrondissement, Iwao plants a true ramen-ya at the heart of the 13001. Steps from the Old Port, the Canebière and the Opéra: push the door and you're off to Tokyo, without leaving central Marseille.
The starting point
Rue Sainte, heart of the 1st
Iwao sets its broths at 27 rue Sainte, in the first arrondissement — the historic heart of Marseille, between the Old Port and the Opéra district. A pocket ramen-ya where five ramen recipes are served piping hot facing the open kitchen, under the paper lanterns of a recreated Tokyo alley. The 13001 is where the whole centre meets — and where you'll find us.
From every corner of the 13001
A Japanese spot a short walk away
A few minutes on foot from the Old Port quays, the climb of the Canebière, the stalls of Noailles or the Opéra theatres, Iwao is the Japanese stopover of the first arrondissement. People come from all over the 13001 — and often further — for a bowl of ramen and a moment in Tokyo, at lunch as at dinner.
At the table
What we share
Beyond ramen, honest Japanese cooking made to share, from small bites to hearty bowls — the same whichever corner of the 13001 you come from.
Karaage & fried bites
Marinated Japanese fried chicken, crisp outside and juicy inside — the classic you nibble at any hour.
Donburi & katsu curry
Generous rice bowls: katsu curry, gyudon, katsu don. Enough to fill the biggest appetites, noon or night.
Good to know
Coming to Iwao
- Address27 rue Sainte, 13001 Marseille (1ᵉʳ)
- Phone+33 4 91 54 08 27
- Opening hours
Tuesday · 19:00 – 22:30
Wednesday → Saturday · 12:00 – 14:30 / 19:00 – 22:30
Sunday · 19:00 – 22:30
Closed on Monday.
- Terrace
Around 15 outdoor seats
Our tip
The room fills quickly, especially in the evening and at weekends, whatever part of the 13001 you come from. Book online to be sure of your table.
Neighbourhood by neighbourhood
Iwao in your neighbourhood
Find the ramen-ya from your corner of Marseille — and the rest of the house.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Where is Iwao in the 13001?
Iwao is at 27 rue Sainte, in the 1st arrondissement (13001), a few minutes on foot from the Old Port, the Canebière and the Opéra district.
Can I get there easily from the Old Port?
Yes: rue Sainte runs straight off the Old Port. Allow five to ten minutes on foot from the quays, heading up towards the Opéra.
Is there a metro or parking nearby in the 13001?
The Vieux-Port and Estrangin stations are close by, and several city-centre car parks (Vieux-Port, Cours d'Estienne d'Orves) are a few minutes on foot.
What kind of Japanese restaurant is Iwao?
An immersive ramen-ya: the house is centred on ramen, with house-made broths and an open kitchen, in a Tokyo-alley setting.
Do I need to book?
It is strongly recommended, especially in the evening and at weekends. You can book online through the dedicated tool or by phone.
Do you offer vegetarian options?
Yes: the menu includes meat-free recipes, among them a plant-based ramen. Allergens are flagged and the team will advise you in the dining room.
Stage clear — table booked
Book your table
The counter and dining room fill up fast, especially in the evening. Book in seconds and come push the door of Iwao, on rue Sainte.
Continue → book your table
Or by phone: +33 4 91 54 08 27