Gyoza & starters
Pan-fried Japanese dumplings, edamame, miso-glazed aubergine: the small plates that open the meal.
Japanese restaurant · Noailles
A Japanese restaurant in Noailles
In the belly of Marseille, between the stalls of Noailles and the top of the Old Port, Iwao opens a Japanese parenthesis. 27 rue Sainte, in the 1st: push the ramen-ya door and leave the market bustle for a Tokyo alley.
The neighbourhood
Steps from the Noailles market
Iwao sets its broths at 27 rue Sainte, on the edge of Noailles — the most cosmopolitan market district of Marseille, nicknamed 'the belly of the city'. Spices, greengrocers, cafés from around the world: to that crossroads of flavours a Japanese address is now added, a pocket ramen-ya where five recipes are served piping hot facing the open kitchen.
From Noailles
Japan around the corner
Walk down the Canebière, cross the market, turn onto rue Sainte: Iwao is right there, minutes from the stalls. The neighbourhood carries you in, the Tokyo alley takes over.
The market nearby
A few minutes on foot from the Noailles halls and stalls — the ideal stop after shopping or a stroll.
Noailles metro & tram
The Noailles station (line 2, tram) is right there; the Old Port and the Canebière frame rue Sainte.
A crossroads of flavours
In a district that gathers the cuisines of the world, Iwao brings its Japanese note, honest and house-made.
The atmosphere
Push the door, change cities
The moment you enter, the market bustle fades. You walk into a rebuilt Tokyo alley: weathered façades, glowing signs, red lanterns and the steam of bowls rising from the open kitchen. A set designed down to the detail so every table has its own corner of Japan, two streets from Noailles.
At the table
What we share
Beyond ramen, honest Japanese cooking made to share, from small bites to hearty bowls — the perfect way to extend a walk through Noailles.
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. After a walk through Noailles, 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
Is Iwao close to the Noailles market?
Yes: Iwao is at 27 rue Sainte, in the 1st arrondissement, a few minutes on foot from the Noailles stalls, on the edge of the district.
How do I get there from the Noailles station?
The Noailles station (metro line 2 and tram) is very close. Head down towards the Old Port and reach rue Sainte: it takes a few minutes on foot.
Is there parking nearby?
Several central car parks are within a few minutes' walk (Old Port, Cours d'Estienne d'Orves), in addition to the district's metro and tram stations.
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 vegetable ramen. Allergens are indicated, and the team will guide you in the room.
Stage clear — table booked
Book your table
The counter and the 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