Café Français | India Mahdavi

Latest creation and flagship of the Beaumarly group, the Café Français has put down roots in the Place de la Bastille where, in a part of town undergoing significant change, it embodies the contemporary brasserie. Backing onto the Marais and facing the Opéra, the Café Français dominates the scene, running from the Boulevard Henri IV to the Rue Saint Antoine and occupying virtually the entire block where, as of March 2013, it has become one Paris’ largest establishments. From morning to evening, all facets of Parisian life are scripted into its amenity programme including a brasserie, a bar, a veranda and a terrace. Trailblazers behind some of the hottest trends, venues and talents, GILBERT and THIERRY COSTES have pooled their know-how in order to blend the finest facets of classicism with the highly accentuated tones of modernity. They are in good company once again: Stationed in front of the kitchen range, chef PASCAL LOGNON DUVAL sets about creating the menu, drawing inspiration from the ideas of Gilbert and Thierry Costes under the benevolent eye of JEAN-FRANÇOIS PIÈGE. The menu will feature classic creations behind the success of the Beaumarly establishments, as well as French heritage dishes served at all times of day.

The Place de la Bastille is suffused with the historical sense of an invisible heritage and a highly contemporary republican symbolism. The very location of the Café Français, standing partly on the vestiges of the former prison, makes reference to history. In order to secure its existence on the square, the establishment had to be endowed with a powerful presence and visual identity. Artistic design was placed in the hands of INDIA MAHDAVI and the M/M (PARIS) studio, who have jointly imbued the Café Français with a graphic density articulated at different levels and permeating its different spaces, materials, furnishings and props.

Primarily defined by its logo, it is deconstructed in order to pervade this radical and exclusive project.With its comforting symmetry of two rooms topped by the bright blue sky of an illuminating dome, the spaces are unified by a densely marbled and terrazzo inlay. The walls — their semicircular arches and alcoves creating segmented spaces — are gilded with copper leaf and feature black marquina marble and brass finishing. A few handcrafted and antiqued mirrors reflect and accentuate the surroundings. Throughout, the radical geometry is toned down by the softness of the furniture and lush materials. France’s three national colours blend in with a range of other tones and colours.

Following on from the two dining rooms, the veranda is the final step before the terrace and the view over the Genie. The glass roof reveals pieces of furniture decorated with burl inlays, wood and black rattan depicting a contemporary and graphic winter garden, with a discreet passage leading to the bar, also accessible through an entrance on the square. In contrast with the brasserie’s sparkling city vibe, the bar is glamorous and muted, ideal for an evening drink after the opera or theatre. Skilled and seasoned bartenders serve up iced Champaign and cocktails. The brass counter creates a mellow and intimate atmosphere.

Finally, the sheltered and lushly planted terrace offers a haven of peace in the city centre, with a sunny view over the whole square and its genie.