Every month, Acumen brings you an exclusive guide to Paris, highlighting new restaurant openings and cultural events of the moment. This guide is perfect for curious Parisians or visitors eager to discover the capital's dynamism, whether for an evening out, a dinner party or a weekend getaway.

NEW ADDRESSES

DUCASSE X BACCARAT
WHEN CRYSTAL AND GASTRONOMY MEET

In a sumptuous setting where crystal meets haute gastronomy, the Ducasse Baccarat restaurant in the 16th arrondissement offers a unique experience, born of Alain Ducasse's vision and enhanced by the prestige of Baccarat. From the moment you enter, the restaurant exudes an aura of finesse and majesty, with every detail designed to evoke French luxury. The glittering chandeliers, the delicate reflections of the goblets and decanters, and the layout of the tables create an intimate, refined ambience, conducive to an extraordinary culinary journey.

The Ducasse Baccarat menu is a symphony in three voices, orchestrated by three generations of chefs: Alain Ducasse, Christophe Saintagne and Robin Schroeder. The Cristal menu begins with refined amuse-bouches, the perfect preparation for the first course: a crisp oyster with marine flavors intensified by a surprising crunch. This is followed by a bold marriage of duck, kale and foie gras, offering a rich combination of textures and flavors. A dish of turnips, arugula and honey brings a subtle lightness, a vegetal interlude that prepares the way for
saint-pierre maturé, crème au vin jaune, whose unctuousness and depth of flavor leave a lasting impression. Next, lamb confit with sweet spices and spinach enchants with its tenderness and oriental aromas. An herbal sorbet refreshes the palate, before we conclude with a light, invigorating lemon dessert to bring this meal to a graceful close. At Ducasse Baccarat, the experience is unforgettable, and the refinement continues right through to checkout.

Discreetly tucked between the lines of an elegant service, it is a subtle reminder that luxury comes at a price... but that's just the value of a meeting between crystal and haute gastronomy.

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

THE BLUE WAGON
A TRAIN NAMED DESIRE

In an unexpectedly charming setting, Le Wagon Bleu in the 17th arrondissement transports guests into an atmosphere reminiscent of the finest journeys of yesteryear. Housed in an authentic Orient-Express carriage, this restaurant offers a visual as well as gustatory escape. As soon as you step through the doors, you find yourself immersed in a vintage decor: leather banquettes, elegant woodwork and subdued lighting create a unique and intimate atmosphere, where history seems suspended. The menu is an ode to Corsican cuisine, warm and generous, and promises a colorful journey through Mediterranean flavors. I choose the eggplants à la bonifacienne, a traditional Corsican recipe. The eggplants are melt-in-the-mouth, stuffed with a Corsican ewe's milk cheese that adds a mild, slightly salty flavor. The Mediterranean tomato sauce, spiced with fresh basil, goes perfectly with the crisp salad that accompanies the dish.

Each bite evokes the sunshine and simple yet powerful flavors of the Isle of Beauty. This dish is an ode to the fresh produce and generosity of island cuisine. For dessert, I choose a fiadone, a traditional Corsican brocciu cake flavored with lemon. Its light texture and tangy note bring the meal to a fresh close, like a Mediterranean breeze reminiscent of Corsica's mountains and orchards. At Le Wagon Bleu, every dish takes us on a journey, and the bill arrives gently, a discreet reminder that this enchanted interlude comes at a price. But for a trip to Corsica without leaving Paris, it seems like a gentle prelude to a future departure.

7, RUE BOURSAULT, PARIS 17E
LEWAGONBLEU.FR

THE BATH
A CANDLELIT DINNER

In the heart of the 2nd arrondissement, La Baignoire reveals itself as a soft, intimate setting, perfect for a romantic candlelit dinner. The decor is sober and elegant, with carefully laid tables, flickering candles and subdued lighting that envelops every corner of the restaurant in a warm glow. The atmosphere is hushed, almost confidential, creating a magical setting for savoring inventive, refined cuisine. Dinner begins with dishes to share, and opens with leeks, accompanied by barberries, aged Saint-Félicien, macadamia and timut honey.

From the very first bite, I was surprised by the balance of flavors. The melting leek is enhanced by the creaminess of the cheese and the subtle sweetness of the honey, while the crunch of the macadamia nut adds an unexpected texture. This delicate combination is both comforting and daring, a fine example of the mastery of French-Israeli chef Cécile Levy. We continue with the mushroom, a dish that is both surprising and comforting. A perfect egg hides under a thin layer of ginger and sakura vinegar, bringing a light acidity that balances the creaminess of the smoked ricotta. Alongside, black rice, subtly scented with lavender and leccino olive, creates a contrast of flavors and textures. A touch of bay adds aromatic depth, transforming this dish into a sensory experience where every bite tells a story.

As a main course, ceviche is an explosion of freshness. Fish marinated in a black cardamom tiger lick is enhanced by notes of cape gooseberry and tarragon, while almond slivers add a subtle crunch. The result is a veritable feast for the palate, a blend of lively flavors and exotic aromas that awaken the senses and recall the flavors of faraway lands.

For dessert, I'm tempted by pear, accompanied by hazelnut marzipan, crispy filo pastry and vanilla cider. The melting, fragrant fruit blends perfectly with the softness of the marzipan and the crispness of the filo pastry. The light touch of cider adds a refreshing, tangy note that balances the sweet flavors, leaving a sensation of lightness in the mouth. As a final sweetness, the chocolate is an apotheosis. A soft sponge cake flavored with green cardamom, accompanied by a lime sorbet, offers a perfect contrast between melt-in-the-mouth softness and freshness. This dessert, both rich and delicate, concludes the meal with elegance and refinement.

At La Baignoire, every dish is a small work of art, and the bill arrives discreetly, a delicate 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 delicate gastronomic escapade.

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

L'ASSAGGIO (RISTORANTE CASTILLE)
A MEDITERRANEAN ADDRESS

In the heart of the 1st arrondissement, in the sumptuous Hôtel Castille, L'Assaggio is a must for lovers of refined Italian cuisine. From the moment you enter, you're enveloped by a warm, sophisticated atmosphere. The décor combines the timeless charm of Parisian style with discreet Mediterranean touches: softly tinted walls, elegantly laid tables and subdued lighting give the place a precious intimacy. The interior terrace, bathed in natural light, is reminiscent of an Italian garden, where it's good to extend the evening with authentic dishes. 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 touch.

From the very first bite, you're transported into a symphony of Mediterranean flavors and French sophistication, a masterful alliance that seduces both the eyes and the taste buds. For starters, I'm enchanted by vitello tonnato, a dish emblematic of Piedmont. Thin, tender slices of veal are topped with a creamy tuna sauce, enhanced by a light zest of lemon that adds a surprising freshness. Every bite shows a perfect balance between sweetness and liveliness, an ideal introduction to the Mediterranean experience that awaits me. For the main course, I let myself be tempted by the merluzzo, zucchine, salsa bianca. This cod, accompanied by zucchini and a delicate white sauce, is a marvel of simplicity and elegance. The cod meat, cooked to perfection, is exquisitely tender, while the zucchini adds a touch of freshness that subtly balances the dish. The smooth, creamy sauce 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 choose the gelato fior di latte, accompanied by salted butter caramel, a red fruit coulis and a crunchy crumble. The creamy, subtly flavored gelato melts into the caramel, which adds a slightly salty sweetness. The red fruit coulis adds a tangy note, while the crumble adds a crunchy texture that contrasts wonderfully with the creaminess of the ice cream. It's a dessert as simple as it is elegant, a veritable explosion of flavors and textures on the palate that leaves an indelible impression.
L'Assaggio is much more than just an Italian restaurant: it's a spellbinding culinary experience in which every dish is a celebration of Piedmontese tradition, brought to a level of refinement that makes it a true pleasure for the senses. With its hushed ambience and attentive service, this restaurant is a place where you take the time to savor every moment.

L'Assaggio has been recognized by the Michelin Guide 2023, and the bill, while representative of this quality, arrives with elegant discretion. This Mediterranean dinner certainly comes at a price, but for a trip to the heart of Piedmont without leaving Paris, it's a little luxury worth every moment of this delicious detour.

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

VECCHIO
A LITTLE ITALY IN PARIS

Right in the heart of the 11th arrondissement, Vecchio is an authentic address where Italy reveals itself in all its splendor. As soon as you step inside, the atmosphere transports you to the other side of the Alps: the décor is both warm and elegant, blending raw materials with Mediterranean touches. Tiled walls and dark wood tables create a warm, intimate atmosphere. Soft lighting and candles add a romantic note, reminiscent of charming Italian trattorias where time seems suspended. The meal begins with a plate of linguine with bottarga, parmesan and lemon.

From the very first bite, I was seduced by the subtle balance of flavors. The intense, salty bottarga brings a marine depth that marries perfectly with the finesse of the parmesan. The lemon adds a touch of acidity, awakening the palate and balancing the creaminess of the pasta. It's a seemingly simple dish, but one of remarkable finesse, where each ingredient is brought to the fore to create a perfect harmony.

For dessert, I let myself be tempted by the baba al limoncello, chantilly and lime. The liqueur-soaked baba is soft and fragrant, offering an explosion of Italian flavors. The light, creamy chantilly softens the intense taste of the limoncello, while the lime zest adds a final freshness. This dessert is a real nod to southern Italy, a sweet and sunny touch to end the meal on a high note.

At Vecchio, every dish is a tribute to Italian cuisine, prepared with care and generosity. You'll find the soul of Italy in every bite, all served in an atmosphere that invites relaxation and conviviality. The bill arrives discreetly, reminding us that this Italian escapade certainly comes at a price, but for a trip to Italy without leaving Paris, it's a small pleasure that we gladly treat ourselves to... and that makes us want to come back to prolong this sweet culinary journey.

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

L'AUBERGE DU JEU DE PAUME
AN ESCAPE JUST A STONE'S THROW FROM PARIS

Just 30 minutes by train from Paris, L'Auberge du Jeu de Paume offers a unique setting in the heart of the prestigious Domaine de Chantilly. This Michelin-starred establishment perfectly combines the charm of an elegant inn with the splendor of a historic site. The décor is refined, harmoniously blending French tradition with contemporary touches. In the main dining room, large bay windows open onto the gardens, inviting guests to a soothing, bucolic escape. The gastronomic restaurant, called La Table du Connétable, is run by chef Clément Le Norcy and his assistant Thomas Morelle.

Together, they honor local produce and seasonal ingredients with creativity and finesse. Their cuisine is both rooted in tradition and imbued with inventiveness, offering diners a gustatory journey as delicate as it is surprising. To start, I choose beet. From the very first bite, the melt-in-your-mouth vegetable blends perfectly with the vintage sake sorbet, bringing a subtly alcoholic freshness. The smooth, soft petit-suisse mousse balances the dish's acidity, while the burnt mandarin adds a caramelized, slightly bitter note that bursts on the palate. This dish is a play on textures and flavors, combining sweetness, acidity and freshness for a captivating sensory experience. For the main course, I opt for a line-caught sea bass seasoned with caviar salt, accompanied by iodized gyoza and pak choï cabbage. The flesh of the sea bass is firm and delicately flavored by the caviar salt, which enhances its marine fragrance without overpowering it. The gyoza adds an extra dimension with its soft texture and iodized taste, while the pak choï adds a freshness and slight bitterness to balance the whole. It's a sophisticated dish that testifies to the chefs' talent for marrying flavors and textures harmoniously.

For those in search of an even more unique experience, La Table du Connétable offers a five-course menu, prepared in front of guests in a reserved area facing the open kitchen. This immersive experience allows guests to discover chef Clément Le Norcy's culinary universe from a privileged angle, observing every step in the creation of the dishes. This exceptional menu highlights 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 ingredients and paying homage to natural flavors.

Attentive, discreet service completes the experience with elegance, creating an atmosphere of soft, soothing luxury. The bill arrives discreetly, an elegant reminder that this culinary escapade comes at a cost. But for an exceptional moment in such an enchanting setting, this immersion in luxury and French savoir-faire is a pleasure to be savored to the full, like a treasure to be carried away in one's memories.

4, RUE DU CONNÉTABLE, CHANTILLY
AUBERGEDUJEUDEPAUMECHANTILLY.FR

FILMS AND PLAYS

FREE

This poignant film traces the lives of characters each seeking a form of freedom, facing crucial choices and having to make personal sacrifices. It delicately explores subjects such as justice, commitment and mutual aid.

LA BELLA ESTATE

In 1938, in Turin, Ginia, who has come to the city with her brother to work, expresses her creativity in 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 gripping work, awarded the Crystal Globes, tells the story of the correspondence between two friends, a German and an American of Jewish origin, as Nazism advances in Europe. Their letters reveal the profound impact of this ideology on their relationship, raising questions of loyalty and moral choices. With 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 "Pop Forever" exhibition pays tribute to pop art and the iconic work of Tom Wesselmann, while exploring the movement's influence on contemporary culture. With colorful and energetic works, this retrospective is an immersion in the spirit of pop art and Wesselmann's unique vision.
FONDATIONLOUISVUITTON.FR

Mark your calendars!