Da Lucrezia Osteria, a stylish yet relaxed Italian eatery located in the 15th arrondissement of Paris

Located where the Grand Venise once stood, Da Lucrezia Osteria has taken over and now offers refined Italian cuisine in a stylish yet relaxed setting. Here's what you need to know.

At the former site of the Grand Venise, a historic cornerstone of Italian cuisine in Paris, a wave of renewal is sweeping through the 15th arrondissement: Da Lucrezia Osteria is taking the stage, aiming to establish itself as a new culinary ambassador for Italy.

With its wood-paneled decor, Murano glass chandeliers and wall sconces, a spacious counter, and a baroque flair, the restaurant reflects the familiar style of traditional institutional dining. A stunning mural spans an entire wall, transporting guests to a classic Venetian scene, while near the kitchen, as a playful nod, a portrait of Lucrezia Borgia with a knowing look watches over the diners.

Don’t be mistaken: Da Lucrezia takes Italian cuisine in a fresh, modern direction. While the venue deeply roots itself in tradition, an eclectic, youthful playlist hints at a different vibe — one of innovation and reinvention. Here, you’ll find Italian dishes that are both refined and hearty, crafted entirely in-house with carefully selected ingredients, all served in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

Good cuisine is something you can smell, admire, and savor — and Da Lucrezia clearly understands this principle. The culinary ritual begins with precision, starting with an amuse-bouche (that day it was a sea bass ceviche), and as you progress through your meal, you'll notice the same meticulous attention to presentation. It's a feast for the eyes before delighting the taste buds!

Don't visit expecting to enjoy a typical pizza — Da Lucrezia offers a menu filled with lesser-known dishes, and it’s worth going with a spirit of discovery. Behind the scenes in the Da Lucrezia kitchen is Francesco, a Neapolitan chef formerly with Big Mamma. Through his recipes, he emphasizes not just quality ingredients but also a meticulous craftsmanship, serving up more technical and refined dishes.

Rest assured, you won't feel completely in uncharted territory — you'll still find some familiar specialties. In one way or another, this place manages to infuse its own personality into every plate. A perfect example is the Vittelo Tonnato served as a starter. This refreshing dish is executed to perfection, featuring ultra-thin slices of veal that melt in the mouth, topped with a rich, creamy sauce. The addition of verveine (lemon-scented verbena) adds a gentle citrus note that ties everything together.

If you're looking to share an appetizer, we recommend the Padellino. This housemade artisanal bread, infused with olive oil, comes in a seaside-inspired version featuring generously roasted prawns, a surprising cooling and spicy mentholated sauce to awaken the taste buds, and a crunchy topping of beet greens.

Fans of handmade pasta will find plenty to indulge in here, as Da Lucrezia offers a wide range of both well-known and lesser-known specialties. Purists can’t resist the homemade gnocchi served steaming from a terracotta dish, with the irresistible aroma of tomato and fresh basil wafting through the air. A generous dollop of creamy stracciatella cheese completes this winning combination.

On this day, the menu also features a dish with a heartier, more rustic flair — a true comfort food: the Girelle Al Coniglio. These are rolled pasta bundles filled with rabbit and ragù. The filling is smooth and creamy, reminiscent of rillette—rich, savory, and perfectly balanced. It’s a delightful discovery!

It's worth highlighting that while the dishes are indulgent and satisfying, they won't leave you feeling heavy afterward! If you've still got room for dessert, the tiramisu is a must-try with its pronounced mascarpone flavor. Served with a spoon, you can choose how much to enjoy based on your appetite — just keep in mind that the price remains the same whether you take a small or generous portion.

Overall, Da Lucrezia is a solid go-to for food lovers and is likely to appeal to those eager to explore a more refined side of Italian cuisine. The setting is cozy, the atmosphere relaxed, making it suitable for a business lunch, a romantic dinner, or a fun night out with friends. However, be aware that the restaurant doesn’t offer a kids' menu, so it might not be the ideal spot for families with young children.

This test was conducted as part of a professional invitation. If your experience differs from ours, please let us know.