Each month, Acumen offers an exclusive guide to Paris, highlighting new restaurant openings and current cultural events. This guide is perfect for curious Parisians or visitors eager to discover the vibrant energy of the capital, whether for an evening out, dinner, or a weekend getaway.

NEW ADDRESSES

DUCASSE X BACCARAT
WHEN CRYSTAL AND GASTRONOMY MEET

In a sumptuous setting where crystal meets haute cuisine, the Ducasse Baccarat restaurant in the 16th arrondissement offers a unique experience, born from the vision of Alain Ducasse and enhanced by the prestige of Baccarat. From the moment you enter, the restaurant exudes an aura: a décor that blends refinement and majesty, where every detail seems designed to evoke French luxury. The sparkling chandeliers, the delicate reflections of the glasses and decanters, and the arrangement of the tables create an intimate and sophisticated atmosphere, perfect for an extraordinary culinary journey.

The Ducasse Baccarat menu is a symphony for three voices, orchestrated by three generations of chefs: Alain Ducasse, Christophe Saintagne, and Robin Schroeder. The Cristal menu begins with refined amuse-bouches, perfectly preparing the palate for the first course: a crisp oyster with marine flavors intensified by a surprising crunch. This is followed by a daring pairing of duck, Savoy cabbage, and foie gras, offering a rich combination of textures and flavors. The dish of turnips, arugula, and honey provides a subtle lightness, a verdant interlude that prepares the palate for the main course.
Mature John Dory with a Vin Jaune cream sauce, whose smoothness and depth of flavor leave a lasting impression. Next, lamb confit with mild spices and spinach delights with its tenderness and oriental aromas. A herb sorbet refreshes the palate before we conclude with a light and invigorating lemon dessert, bringing this meal to a graceful close. At Ducasse Baccarat, the experience is unforgettable, and the refinement continues right up to the bill.

Discreetly slipped between the lines of an elegant service, it subtly reminds us that luxury has a price… but it is the true value of an encounter between crystal and haute cuisine.

11, PLACE DES ÉTATS-UNIS, PARIS 16TH
DUCASSE-BACCARAT-PARIS.COM

THE BLUE WAGON
A TRAIN NAMED DESIRE

In an unexpected and charming setting, Le Wagon Bleu, located in the 17th arrondissement, transports its guests to an atmosphere reminiscent of the most beautiful journeys of yesteryear. Housed in an authentic Orient Express carriage, this restaurant offers an escape that is both visual and gustatory. From the moment you step inside, you are immersed in a vintage décor: leather banquettes, elegant woodwork, and soft lighting create a unique and intimate ambiance, where history seems to stand still. The menu is an ode to warm and generous Corsican cuisine, promising a vibrant journey through Mediterranean flavors. I chose the eggplant Bonifacienne, a traditional Corsican recipe. The eggplants were meltingly tender, stuffed with a Corsican sheep's cheese that imparted a mild and slightly salty flavor. The Mediterranean tomato sauce, enhanced with fresh basil, paired perfectly with the crisp salad that accompanied the dish.

Each bite evokes the sun and the simple yet powerful flavors of Corsica. This dish is an ode to fresh produce and the generosity of island cuisine. For dessert, I choose a fiadone, the traditional Corsican cake made with brocciu cheese and flavored with lemon. Its light texture and tangy note bring the meal to a refreshing close, like a Mediterranean breeze that evokes the mountains and orchards of Corsica. At Le Wagon Bleu, each dish transports us, and the bill arrives gently, a subtle reminder that this enchanting interlude comes at a price. But for a trip to Corsica without leaving Paris, it seems like a sweet prelude to a future visit.

7, RUE BOURSAULT, PARIS 17TH
LEWAGONBLEU.FR

THE BATHTUB
A CANDLELIGHT DINNER

In the heart of the 2nd arrondissement, La Baignoire reveals itself as a haven of tranquility and intimacy, perfect for a romantic candlelit dinner. The decor is understated and elegant, with carefully set tables, flickering candles, and soft lighting that envelops every corner of the restaurant in a warm glow. The atmosphere is hushed, almost intimate, creating a magical setting to savor inventive and refined cuisine. Dinner begins with sharing plates and opens with leek, accompanied by barberries, aged Saint-Félicien cheese, macadamia nuts, and Timut honey.

From the first bite, I was surprised by the balance of flavors. The meltingly tender leek was enhanced by the creaminess of the cheese and the subtle sweetness of the honey, while the crunch of the macadamia nut added an unexpected texture. This delicate combination was both comforting and daring, a beautiful example of the mastery of French-Israeli chef Cécile Levy. Next came the mushroom, a dish that was both surprising and comforting. A perfectly cooked egg hid beneath a thin layer of ginger and sakura vinegar, providing a touch of acidity that balanced the creaminess of the smoked ricotta. Alongside it, black rice, subtly flavored with lavender and Leccino olives, created a contrast of flavors and textures. A hint of bay leaf added aromatic depth, transforming this dish into a sensory experience where each bite tells a story.

As a main course, ceviche is an explosion of freshness. The fish, marinated in a black cardamom-infused tiger's eye sauce, is enhanced by notes of physalis and tarragon, while almond slivers add a subtle crunch. This ceviche is a true feast for the senses, a blend of vibrant flavors and exotic aromas that awaken the senses and evoke the tastes of faraway lands.

For dessert, I opted for the pear, accompanied by hazelnut marzipan, crispy filo pastry, and vanilla cider. The fruit, meltingly tender and fragrant, paired perfectly with the sweetness of the marzipan and the crispness of the filo. The light touch of cider added a refreshing, tangy note that balanced the sweet flavors, leaving a light sensation on the palate. As a final indulgence, the chocolate was pure bliss. A soft sponge cake flavored with green cardamom, accompanied by lime sorbet, offered a perfect contrast between richness and freshness. This dessert, both indulgent and delicate, concluded the meal with elegance and refinement.

At La Baignoire, each dish is a small work of art, and the bill arrives discreetly, a gentle reminder that this exceptional culinary experience comes at a price. But a candlelit dinner of such quality is a precious memory… and awakens a desire to return, to relive this exquisite gastronomic escape.

7, RUE NOTRE-DAME-DE-BONNE-NOUVELLE, PARIS 2ND
LABAIGNOIRERESTAURANT.COM

L'ASSAGGIO (RISTORANTE CASTILE)
A MEDITERRANEAN ADDRESS

In the heart of the 1st arrondissement, within the sumptuous Hôtel Castille, L'Assaggio stands out as a must-visit destination for lovers of refined Italian cuisine. From the moment you enter, you are enveloped in a warm and sophisticated atmosphere. The décor blends the timeless charm of Parisian style with subtle Mediterranean touches: soft-toned walls, elegantly set tables, and subdued lighting that lends the space a precious intimacy. The interior terrace, bathed in natural light, evokes an Italian garden, a perfect place to linger over dishes bursting with authentic flavors. Under the direction of Chef Sasha Arandjelovic, in collaboration with Michelin-starred Chef Ugo Alciati, L'Assaggio's menu is a tribute to Piedmontese cuisine, revisited with a contemporary twist.

From the very first bite, you're transported to a symphony of Mediterranean flavors and French sophistication, a masterful combination that delights both the eyes and the palate. For my starter, I let myself be captivated by the vitello tonnato, an iconic Piedmontese dish. The thin, tender slices of veal are coated in a smooth tuna sauce, enhanced with a touch of lemon zest that adds a surprising freshness. Each bite reveals a perfect balance between sweetness and vibrancy, an ideal introduction to the Mediterranean experience that awaits me. For my main course, I opt for the merluzzo, zucchini, salsa bianca. This cod, accompanied by zucchini and a delicate white sauce, is a pure marvel of simplicity and elegance. The cod, cooked to perfection, is exquisitely tender, while the zucchini adds a touch of freshness that subtly balances the dish. The sauce, sweet and creamy, envelops everything, creating a harmonious marriage of flavors that evokes the lightness and finesse of Mediterranean cuisine.

To end the meal on a high note, I chose the fior di latte gelato, accompanied by salted caramel, a red berry coulis, and a crunchy crumble. The ice cream, creamy and subtly flavored, melts into the caramel, which adds a slightly salty sweetness. The red berry coulis provides a tangy note, while the crumble adds a crunchy texture that contrasts wonderfully with the smoothness of the ice cream. It's a dessert that is as simple as it is elegant, a true explosion of flavors and textures in the mouth, leaving an unforgettable memory.
Assaggio is much more than just an Italian restaurant: it's a captivating culinary experience where each dish is a celebration of Piedmontese tradition, elevated to a level of refinement that makes it a true delight for the senses. With its intimate atmosphere and attentive service, this restaurant is a place where you can take the time to savor every moment.

Assaggio was recognized by the 2023 Michelin Guide, and the bill, while reflecting this quality, arrives with elegant discretion. This Mediterranean dinner is certainly pricey, but for a journey to the heart of Piedmont without leaving Paris, it's a small luxury worth every moment of this delightful detour.

37, RUE CAMBON, PARIS 1ST
COLLEZIONE.STARHOTELS.COM

OLD
A LITTLE BIT OF ITALY IN PARIS

In the heart of the 11th arrondissement, Vecchio presents itself as an authentic address where Italy reveals itself in all its splendor. From the moment you step inside, the ambiance transports you to the other side of the Alps: the decor is both warm and elegant, blending raw materials with Mediterranean touches. The walls adorned with ceramic tiles and the dark wood tables create a convivial and intimate atmosphere. The soft lighting and candles add a romantic note, reminiscent of charming Italian trattorias where time seems to stand still. The meal begins with a plate of linguine with bottarga, Parmesan, and lemon.

From the first bite, I was captivated by the subtle balance of flavors. The bottarga, intense and salty, brings a marine depth that pairs perfectly with the delicate Parmesan. The lemon adds a touch of acidity, awakening the palate and balancing the creaminess of the pasta. It's a dish that appears simple, yet is remarkably refined, where each ingredient is showcased to create perfect harmony.

For dessert, I opted for the limoncello baba with whipped cream and lime. Soaked in the liqueur, the baba was moist and fragrant, offering an explosion of Italian flavors. The light and creamy whipped cream softened the intense taste of the limoncello, while the lime zest added a final touch of freshness. This dessert was a true nod to Southern Italy, a sweet and sunny touch to end the meal on a high note.

At Vecchio, each dish is a tribute to Italian cuisine, prepared with care and generosity. The soul of Italy is in every bite, all served in an atmosphere that invites relaxation and conviviality. The bill arrives discreetly, a reminder that this Italian escape does come at a price, certainly, but for a trip to Italy without leaving Paris, it's a small pleasure one gladly indulges in… and one that makes you want to return to extend this delightful culinary journey.

14, RUE CRESPIN-DU-GAST, PARIS 11TH
LEPERCHOIR.FR

THE TICKETS OF PAUM INN
A GETAWAY JUST A STONE'S THROW FROM PARIS

Just thirty minutes from Paris by train, L'Auberge du Jeu de Paume offers a unique setting in the heart of the prestigious Domaine de Chantilly. This Michelin-starred establishment perfectly blends the charm of an elegant inn with the splendor of a historic site. The décor is refined, harmoniously combining French tradition with contemporary touches. In the main dining room, large bay windows open onto the gardens, inviting guests to a bucolic and tranquil escape. The gourmet restaurant, La Table du Connétable, is helmed by chef Clément Le Norcy and his sous-chef, Thomas Morelle.

Together, they showcase local produce and seasonal ingredients with creativity and finesse. Their cuisine is both rooted in tradition and imbued with inventiveness, offering diners a delicate yet surprising culinary journey. To start, I choose the beetroot. From the first bite, the meltingly tender vegetable pairs perfectly with the vintage sake sorbet, bringing a subtly boozy freshness. The smooth and creamy fromage frais mousse balances the dish's acidity, while the charred mandarin adds a caramelized and slightly bitter note that bursts in the mouth. This dish is a play of textures and flavors, combining sweetness, acidity, and freshness for a captivating sensory experience. For my main course, I opt for line-caught sea bass seasoned with caviar salt, accompanied by a briny gyoza and pak choi. The sea bass flesh is firm and delicately flavored with caviar salt, which enhances its marine aroma without overpowering it. The gyoza adds another dimension with its soft texture and briny taste, while the pak choi provides freshness and a touch of bitterness that balances the whole dish. It's a sophisticated dish that showcases the chefs' skill in harmoniously combining flavors and textures.

For those seeking an even more unique experience, La Table du Connétable offers a five-course menu, prepared in front of guests in a private area facing the open kitchen. This immersive experience allows guests to discover Chef Clément Le Norcy's culinary world from a privileged perspective, observing each step of the dish creation process. This exceptional menu showcases seasonal produce and the chef's inspirations, for a unique moment of sharing and emotion at the heart of the Auberge. The Auberge du Jeu de Paume is not just a Michelin-starred restaurant, but a place where every moment is savored. Each dish is carefully crafted, respecting the ingredients and paying homage to natural flavors.

The attentive and discreet service elegantly complements this experience, creating an atmosphere where luxury is gentle and soothing. The bill arrives discreetly, a subtle reminder that this culinary escape comes at a price. But for such an exceptional moment in an enchanting setting, this immersion in French luxury and savoir-faire is a pleasure to be savored fully, like a treasure to cherish in one's memories.

4, RUE DU CONNETABLE, CHANTILLY
AUBERGEDUJEUDEPAUMECHANTILLY.FR

FILMS AND PLAYS

RADIO

This poignant film traces the lives of characters each seeking a form of freedom, facing crucial choices and making personal sacrifices. It delicately explores themes such as justice, commitment, and mutual support.

THE BEAUTIFUL SUMMER

In 1938, in Turin, Ginia, who came to the city with her brother to work, expresses her creativity through sewing in a workshop. Her encounter with a young female model draws her into a captivating and unexpected artistic world.

UNKNOWN AT THIS ADDRESS

This striking work, winner of the Globes de Cristal awards, recounts the correspondence between two friends, a German and an American of Jewish origin, as Nazism spreads across Europe. Their letters reveal the profound impact of this ideology on their relationship, raising questions of loyalty and moral choices. Starring Stéphane Guillon and Jean-Pierre Darroussin. Directed by Jérémie Lippmann. Until December 29, 2024.
THEATRE-ANTOINE.COM

EXHIBITIONS IN PARIS

“POP FOREVER, TOM WESSELMANN &…”

At the Fondation Louis Vuitton, the exhibition "Pop Forever" pays homage to pop art and the iconic work of Tom Wesselmann, while exploring the influence of this movement on contemporary culture. With vibrant and energetic works, this retrospective offers an immersion into the spirit of pop art and Wesselmann's unique vision.
FONDATIONLOUISVUITTON.FR

Mark your calendars!