Why You Need To Visit This Historical Café Next Time You’re In Paris…
Victor Hugo, Gustave Flaubert and Marcel Proust were all regulars at Lapérouse…
First opened in 1766 Lapérouse is the sort of Rive Gauche establishment where you can spend an evening chasing the ghosts of patrons such as Victor Hugo, Gustave Flaubert and Marcel Proust, to name a few.
Wondering through the grand reception area of the 18th-century Hôtel de la Marine just off Place de la Concorde, owner Benjamin Patou serendipitously stumbled upon an intriguing portrait of a completely different Lapérouse. Jean-François de Lapérouse, a navigator and wine merchant who established his business in the building in 1766.
It was at this moment that Patou’s vision to open the first Café Lapérouse became clear. Patou partnered with Antoine Arnault, the CEO of Berluti and head of communications for LVMH, and together they convinced Cordélia de Castellane, the artistic director of Dior Maison and Baby Dior, to curate the interiors.
Café Lapérouse consists of two terraces and two dining areas. Every detail harkens back to travels of the explorer who lends his name to the restaurant. The wood materials represent the voyager’s boat, wicker furniture evokes his tropical destinations, and a myriad of blue tones conjure up the ocean. De Castellane combined elements of the original restaurant, famed for its boudoir-like reception rooms frequented by artists, socialites and courtesans, with a seafaring spirit with touches of exotica, like the bar entirely adorned with shells.
Le Salon Orient – reminiscent of an 18th Century smoking lounge is decked out in shades of pink, coral and deep red, mahogany wood and cordoba leather. Vintage Baccarat chandeliers and backgammon tables add to the atmosphere. The custom floral wallcoverings and upholstered fabrics are all de Castellane’s designs.
The menu lists flavorful aristocratic snacks alongside delectable California style salads and trendy foods such as the hearty smash burger. Of course, Lapérouse favourites such as pâté en croute, foie gras and center-cut smoked salmon have not been left off the list. Paying homage to its most loyal patron, Victor Hugo, the ‘Proustian’ snacks (madeleines and jams) – mentioned in his ‘In Search For Lost Time’ are available for sale at the boutique, wrapped in pretty packets designed by de Castellane.
Without a doubt, the ghosts of Lapérouse have found a new more modern dwelling at the newly opened café.
For more information, visit laperouse.com
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