If I understand correctly, only the people defined above and corresponding to these respective "categories" are allowed to talk about this very Parisian phenomenon. (A sect now presided over by Steevy Boulay and Massimo Gargia). So how do I go about compiling an exhaustive list of the capital's trendy restaurants? Should I call them? No, I'm sure I won't understand, they're far too specialized for me.
Let's think about it... I don't consider myself a fashionista (even though I own Converse sneakers!), nor a celebrity (although I do know the cousin of Daft Punk's neighbor!). I'm not very trendy (even though I listen to Wax Tailor), and I'm even less of an opinion leader (I was never elected class representative during my entire school career). So what am I? Oh yes, a journalist, I forgot... So it's my duty to help you, you bunch of misfits!
ANDY WAHLOO
Strangely enough, little "Andy" said YES right away! (I had to do it, forgive me.) Andy is first and foremost Mourad Mazouz, the very charismatic "Momo," darling of Parisians and a handful of socialites. A few years ago, he opened the restaurant "404" in République. It was a huge success! Then he created "Momo's" in London, an oriental hotspot for international stars, and then launched "Sketch," an incredible venue in the heart of the English capital. But something was missing. An unusual, out-of-the-ordinary place: "Andy Wahloo." This small, trendy Warhol-inspired bar-restaurant with an oriental touch is the brainchild of Mourad Mazouz and his brother Akim. Andy Wahloo is located just a few meters from its big brother, 404.
The cuisine is simple and modern, enjoyable and inexpensive. The specialty here is Warholian kémias, which are completely crazy Mediterranean tapas, just like Andy (not the one from Rita, but the one from New York!). The various couscous dishes are also a big hit. As for the decor, it's mostly recycled! Paint pots serve as poufs and Coca-Cola crates serve as round tables. It's as kitsch as you could wish for, but it's a pleasant place to be. The music is nice, but a little loud after 10 p.m.
Andy Whaloo has become a hangout for hipsters, and the hype has taken over from the friendliness of the early days. It's a shame... Go there for lunch instead, it's more enjoyable. Take advantage of the terrace to smoke a hookah or drink a Mojito (one of the best in Paris).
Expect to pay €15 to €20 for a meal.
LA VILLA SPICY
As its name suggests, Villa Spicy is a paradise of flavors and spices. This cozy restaurant with a contemporary Provençal atmosphere also offers a superb terrace. This is a significant feature, especially valuable on the first sunny days of the year.
Ideally located near the Champs-Elysées roundabout, this restaurant offers cuisine with flavors from the South. Spicy to perfection, it is loved by aficionados. Outside, the red brick walls give it a warm feel. Inside, the wood paneling reinforces the idea of conviviality. Expect to pay around €50 per person. All-inclusive menu with drinks.
LE MINI PALAIS
Hello jaded friends, good evening Parisian friends! There's one place that will satisfy even the grumpiest of Parisians: the Mini Palais, located on an exceptional site classified as a historic monument. You'll have the pleasure of contemplating the Seine from the terrace, under the columns of the Grand Palais, with a view of the Petit... Palais. The scene is set.
The decor is fashionable, with gigantic light fixtures and mini meters hanging on the walls. The whole place has been modernized with brand new furniture. Gilles Choukroun's cuisine is as inventive as ever: langoustine emulsion as a starter, poached chicken breast with caramelized tomatoes, chorizo, and dates. For dessert, the "upside-down" lemon tart is a delight. Expect to pay around €50 per person. The bill is not mini...
THE GOOD
You might think, "Starck again, and on Rue de la Pompe to boot... Way too cliché for me!" Well, yes, it is Starck, in the 16th arrondissement, the Mecca of the Parisian bourgeoisie. But as surprising as it may be, the place is different from what you might imagine.
The façade is unique, and you immediately sense that you are in a special place. The cuisine, created by Bruno Brengea, is inventive and has traveled the world.
Le Bon offers, among other things, Madagascan shrimp with lemongrass tartare. Pan-fried skate with mashed potatoes. For dessert, the "choco bon" plate is a treat.
LE GEORGES
This is undoubtedly the most hyped café in Paris. Created by Costes, Le Georges is a reflection of the center that houses it, namely ultra-contemporary. With its minimalist decor, the restaurant is above all a work of art, more than a gourmet restaurant.
The bright lighting highlights the metal elements that dominate the space, creating a striking visual effect. Customers come here for the view, one of the most beautiful in Paris, but also for the restaurant's showy atmosphere.
The staff are very friendly and speak every language, which is important for a restaurant that is so popular with tourists. On the menu, "le tigre qui pleure" (the crying tiger), a delicious beef fillet, and "Silver Cod," cod with champagne, are among the specialties at Georges. For dessert, indulge in the "Macaron à la framboise" (raspberry macaron).
If you want to impress your friends, choosing this Costes group establishment is a sure bet...
LE TOKYO EAT
This is the restaurant at the Palais de Tokyo. Large spaces, a huge kitchen, simple, bright materials, and strange portraits cover the windows. Let's not forget the famous pink light fixtures that also serve as speakers.
In short, as you can imagine, you are in an unusual place. Tokyo Eat is a breath of fresh air in the sometimes dull landscape of Parisian restaurants.
The cuisine, led by Thierry Bassard, is quirky and inventive. Colorful menus are available, such as the famous Rose menu, which, as its name suggests, features pink-colored dishes (shrimp, salmon, etc.).
For dessert, try the strawberry carpaccio with honey-lemon syrup. Several varieties of tea, fresh fruit juices, and milkshakes are also available. So why not give it a try this summer?
Location
Behind
69 Rue des Gravilliers
75003 Paris 3
