When you check-in for the Cannes Film Festival on May 15th, you’ll likely notice some changes both good and bad. Our once-favorite Martinez has been rebranded a Grand Hyatt while flashy outposts of Radisson Blu and JW Marriott confound those that question the idea of traveling half way around the world to stay in an American chain. Luckily, for those types there’s the still very French Majestic as well as newer luxury boutique Five Seas Hotel.
In terms of festival dining, La Palme d\'Or remains the town’s most prized eatery under the direction of 2-star Michelin chef Christian Sinicropi. More innovative and almost just as stellar, Le Park 45 and Sebastian Broda spin out dishes like monkfish with chorizo and coriander pesto or slow-cooked tuna with pan-fried foie gras. Just outside of town, Villa Archange in Le Cannet dazzles in an 18th Century setting while Bacon delivers Cap d\' Antibes glamour and a seafood menu worth the 10-minute taxi ride.
In terms of festival nightlife, Jean-Roch’s VIP Room returns just as decadent in a marquee space tucked inside the JW Marriott that\'s the backdrop for parties by David Guetta and rivaled only by Gotha Club this year for the 3am dance crowd. Nikki Beach will split its time between the rooftop of the JW Marriott Cannes, La Plage at the Carlton and new Nikki Beach Le Club at Les Marches inside Palais des Festivals. Le Baron also returns as well as a pop-up of David Lynch’s Club Silencio located just off la Croisette.
