Since being taken over in 2008 on Île Saint-Louis by Boris and Emile Bazan, the dynamic duo behind the Becs Parisiens group—which includes the renowned Chocho from Thomas Chisholm, Le Christine, and Le Colvert in Saint-Germain des Prés—Les Fous de l'Île has become an institution. But an institution doesn’t necessarily mean everything is outdated and bland cuisine, far from it!
[visible|debut="08/02/2023 12h"|fin="15/02/2023"]Valentine’s Day Menu at Fous de l'Ile – €85 per person
Tapioca chips with marinated bar in lime
Whole Erquy scallops with white wine sabayon
Sole fillet with roasted Jerusalem artichokes and parsley oil
Chicken ballotine with chanterelle mushrooms, mashed potatoes with olive oil, and chicken jus
Chocolate soufflé for two
This summer, Les Fous de l'Île begins a new chapter with the appointment of a new head chef, Jonathan Lafon. Having previously served as sous-chef at the Relais Plaza, he now takes the helm, marking his first time leading the kitchen.
When it comes to decor, Les Fous de l'Île embrace a modern aesthetic, featuring a contemporary design crafted by Estelle Williot. A stunning glass canopy dominates the space, overlooking a large communal table ready to host plenty of friends. The walls are painted in a rich duck blue, complemented by charming little hens scattered throughout on shelves, adding a playful touch.
Secluded diners and couples tend to favor the hidden corner tucked away behind expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, offering a view without feeling on display or disturbed by noise. Les Fous de l'Île is a truly lively bistro, with a lively yet smooth service led by director Caroline Jamois and the accompanying bursts of laughter from happy guests.
Generous and welcoming, Jonathan Lafon's cuisine also emphasizes respecting seasonal ingredients, prepared fresh on-site as befitting the restaurant’s status as a Maître-Restaurateur. It’s hard to imagine a more fresh offering than the daily changing slate and its affordable 26€ menu for starter, main, and dessert, tailored to what's available at the market and from small local producers who are part of this virtuous short supply chain, like vegetable grower Christophe Latour.
To complement these bistronomic dishes, Les Fous de l'Île are also passionate about exceptional wines. Their selection is impressive, ranging from the most discreet cuvées to renowned labels, from classic bottles to festive magnums and Jeroboams—ideal for large groups of friends. These beverages can also be enjoyed in the restaurant’s secret cellar, a mysterious wine room. For cocktail enthusiasts, the menu offers some truly inventive options, like the Béguin (dark and white rum, apricot liqueur, and cinnamon syrup; €12).
During our visit, we sampled a variety of dishes: a perfectly cooked octopus (€16) paired with chunks of ripe avocado and a fiery jalapeño condiment to kick things up, turned artichokes (€10) coated in peppery pecorino, a tender tuna (€26) prepared like a tataki with confit eggplant and a zingy ginger sauce, and a stunning yellow Landes poultry (€24), served with gnocchetti from Maison Briardines, complemented by spinach and a comforting yellow wine cream. Truly impressive!
And for mozzarella fans, we might have just uncovered THE summer dish: a generous 500g burrata (!) served with pesto and fresh basil leaves (50€) — perfect for sharing among friends... or not!
This test was conducted as part of a professional invitation. If your experience differs from ours, please let us know.
Location
Les Fous de l'Ile
33, Rue des Deux Ponts
75004 Paris 4
Prices
Entrée – plat ou plat – dessert: €21
Entrée – plat – dessert: €26
Official website
lesfousdelile.becsparisiens.fr
