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Le Pavillon de la Reine, the discreet and emblematic address on Place des Vosges in Paris, is opening a new chapter in its gastronomic story. Following a major renovation by Didier Benderli in January, its Michelin-starred restaurant Anne unveils a reinvented dining room. A refined blend of warmth and understated sophistication, the new setting is perfectly attuned to the culinary experience offered within. Leading this renaissance, Chef Thibault Sombardier makes his grand return to gastronomy. His vision is to offer exceptional cuisine in a spirit of discreet luxury.
Address: Le Pavillon de la Reine, Place des Vosges, 75003 Paris.
Tel: +33 1 40 29 19 19
A few steps from the Opéra Garnier, Fontaine Gaillon transports you into an atmosphere of timeless elegance, with a hint of Roman holiday spirit. Open since 1841, this prestigious restaurant has gracefully stood the test of time, preserving both its charm and its dedication to fine cuisine. Outside, the charming terrace is named in reference to the historic fountain adorned with a triton, seated proudly at the center of the small square that hosts it.
On the menu: yellowtail crudo, sweetbreads with morel mushrooms, hand-cut beef tartare, or vanilla ice cream profiteroles with chocolate sauce – plates full of character to savour in this legendary setting.
Address: 1 rue de la Michodière, 75002 Paris.
Tel: +33 1 83 64 82 94
Fitzgerald, this neo-bistro in the 7th arrondissement, stylishly awakens the calm of the ministerial district. This Art Deco inspired spot charms as much for its intimate ambiance as for its refined cuisine and attentive team. During the week, the terrace becomes the HQ of local professionals: lunches featuring lobster linguine, truffled mushroom risotto, and other carefully plated dishes served with efficiency.
But the real twist is the afterwork: starting at 5 p.m., it’s cocktails and bites time at friendly prices. You share a truffle croque monsieur, dip into the homemade guacamole, and let the evening flow – perhaps even to the hidden speakeasy behind… A chic and clever spot, not to be missed.
Address: 54 Bd de la Tour-Maubourg, 75007 Paris.
Tel: +33 1 83 64 82 91
A mythical venue of Parisian nights in the 1980s, Hollywood Savoy offers refined, convivial homemade cuisine while architect Sophie Lacroix reinvents the space with an Art Deco ambiance accented by glamorous touches – a bronze bar, leopard carpet…
And outside? A lush, elegant terrace, like a chic, cosy brasserie, with an unbeatable view of the Palais Brongniart. That’s where you’ll enjoy the essentials: crab and avocado tacos, lobster linguine, pepper-sauce beef fillet… not to mention the cognac flambéed poached pear (with its sexy mousseline) or the mango-pineapple cheesecake to end on a high note. In short, the perfect spot to chill this season!
Address: 44 rue Notre Dame des Victoires, 75002 Paris.
Tel: +33 1 83 64 82 95
Head to the Left Bank with Abstinence, the 15th arrondissement hotspot that’s perfect for enjoying back-to-work aperitifs with a glass of wine and a musical backdrop. Just a stone’s throw from the Champ de Mars, this trendy venue offers a clever blend of fresh bistronomy and stylish musical vibes.
The ideal plan? Dinner on the terrace, then extending the evening at the bar, lulled by vinyl mixes of funk, soul, and electro every Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
On the menu: fresh, homemade cuisine with vegetables taking center stage – roasted zucchini with mousseline, sea bass fillet with beets and lemon butter sauce, or a chicken supreme with rich jus and homemade mashed potatoes.
A cool, festive atmosphere, well-crafted dishes, and a terrace that makes you want to soak up the last rays of summer sun.
Address: 47 Av. de la Motte-Picquet, 75015 Paris.
Tel: +33 1 83 64 82 92
After its first iconic spot in the Passage des Panoramas, Club Cochon is bringing its playful, mischievous spirit to L’Auberge, in the 9th arrondissement. This true temple of epicurean delights has no fuss, no frills – just food that’s good, honest, and alive!
Club Cochon sets out to deliver its simple yet daring vision: putting pleasure and generosity back at the heart of both the plate and the party. Driven by a tight knit crew of passionate souls perfectly at ease in their element, the place marries terroir with freedom, tradition with bold irreverence. Here, pork reigns supreme – but it’s not the only star of the show.
The wine flows freely, the kitchen blazes, and the room pulses with energy – an experience to taste, drink, and dance to (yes, even on the bar). Discover a one-of-a kind venue, with countless facets, each more deliciously indulgent than the last.
Address: 4 rue Drouot, 75009 Paris. Tel: +33 1 88 61 15 75
Just by the École Militaire, Vesper stands out as the most glamorous address in the 7th arrondissement. With decor designed by the talented Studio Lazaro, the space captivates with its mix of noble and elegant materials, creating a sexy, modern atmosphere. Architect Lázaro Rosa Violán envisioned a spectacular setting halfway between London and Tokyo – House of Hackney wallpapers, sparkling chandeliers, velvet banquettes, and lush jungle-style greenery.
On the menu: avant-garde Nikkei cuisine – “crying tiger” beef, karaage fried chicken with chimichurri sauce, and a sublime selection of sushi. When the weather allows, the leafy terrace is the ideal spot to soak up the Left Bank’s trendy vibe. A place where the neighborhood’s beautiful crowd gathers – between glamour and fusion flavors.
Address: 81 avenue Bosquet, 75007 Paris.
Tel: +33 1 83 64 82 93
Was it always your dream to become a chef?
Yes, my connection to food has been strong since childhood. Growing up in Mauritius, my family owned one of the most modern and largest pastry and bakery shops on the island at that time. My uncle, who was trained at Lenôtre back in the 80s, truly inspired me and passed on his passion for the craft. That early exposure to the art of pastry and bakery shaped my dream of becoming a chef.
Where is “home” for you?
I will say… Raised and born in Mauritius but made in France. Both places hold a big part of who I am. Mauritius for my roots, warmth, and flavours; France for its culture, art, and the refinement it brought to my technique.
Pros and cons of living as an expat?
The biggest advantage is growth, both personal and professional. You get to experience new cultures, travel the world, meet incredible people, make friends everywhere, and discover diverse food traditions and flavours that constantly inspire creativity. The downside? Sometimes you miss the familiar family, traditions, and that feeling of belonging only home can give.
Life motto?
Live by a code of love. Stay humble, stay hungry, both in life and in the kitchen.
"Today, many chefs cook very well. but to create real value and stand out, you must create emotion.”
Most challenging aspect of being a chef?
The long hours can be tough. Every day, you repeat the same gestures, the same routine, day in, day out, week after week, year after year. I even call it “practice,” not work. When you choose this profession, you must immerse yourself completely, no distractions, no Plan B. But that’s also what pushes you to grow and innovate every day.
Favourite food?
Don’t laugh… my Sunday best.. a warm French baguette with Comté cheese, all day long. I love it!
Any memorable kitchen disasters?
Plenty! Every mistake is a lesson, that’s how you grow in this industry.
Favourite dish to create?
For years now, I’ve loved working with Japanese ingredients and blending them with French cuisine. It’s a beautiful meeting point between two worlds and two philosophies.
In another life, I would be… Expat or local?
A citizen of this beautiful world.
