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LAURENT Well hidden in the Golden Triangle, right in the middle of the Champs-Élysées gardens, the Laurent house is a Parisian institution. Behind its pretty orange-hued facade lies a realm where elegance and the French art of living take pride of place. People visit this treasure of French historical and gastronomic heritage to take a break in the enchanting garden, shaded by centuryold chestnut trees, in the majestic Neoclassical room, or in one of the house s private reception rooms. Traditional old-fashioned luxury teams up with a discreet modernity. For over 300 years, the Laurent has held the keys to an authentic, prestigious welcome. 2 3
A RICH HISTORY The history of the Laurent is delicately intertwined with the spirit of the times. This former hunting pavilion owned by Louis XIV was converted to an open-air cafe during the Revolution, and then completely redesigned in 1840 by the architect Hittorff, when it became the Café du Cirque. Two decades later, this popular cafe was taken over by a certain Mister Laurent, who put such a distinctive stamp on the building that it still bears his name today. In 2002, the Laurent inspired Mr Isidore Partouche, who carried on the spirit of excellence there, without altering the precious soul of the house. Managing the Laurent, such a beautiful house of incomparable opulence, is more a joy than a job. Isidore Partouche 4
THE SPLENDOUR OF THE BELLE EPOQUE At the time of the Second Empire, powerful men and courtesans used to meet at the Laurent for a discreet dinner. Those impeccably dressed women added to the atmosphere of glamour and elegance. A HAND-PICKED CLIENTELE Everybody who was anybody used to tread the plush carpets of the Laurent: Dali, Lady Di, Margaret Thatcher Men of state, couturiers, writers, and artists of every era went there for society dinners and secret meetings. Otéro, star of the neighbouring circus, dined there with his powerful admirers. The house still retains a certain Belle Epoque atmosphere thanks to the paintings hanging there. 6 7
LITTLE FOOTNOTES OF HISTORY A PRESIDENT WAS ENCHANTED During a visit to Paris, Richard Nixon discovered the Laurent, which left him with an unforgettable memory... The sommelier invited him to taste a Raveneau Chablis to go with his food. A week later, the White House called the Laurent to ask how to contact the winery. The president was utterly enchanted by this wine, as well as by this house. A PAINTER SET IN HIS WAYS Salvador Dali was a regular at the Laurent in the 1960s. He and his wife always arrived at exactly 7 PM, to avoid the crowds. His beloved Gala always chose lobster. The artist enjoyed trying the chef s various creations, and sometimes playfully placed his order with the waiter by drawing it. Definitely a customer to remember 8
A BRILLIANT AMBASSADOR In the 70s, Charlie Chaplin s son, Sydney, adopted the Laurent as his second home and became its public relations manager. During his time there, the house was joyous and festive. Impressive parties were organised, and all of Parisian society crowded in. The hall was transformed every night, to host more unusual events, such as fashion shows. Luxury and fun were the order of the day, but discretion remained important too. The personalities and anecdotes from that era keep the Laurent legend going... 10
A PRIVILEGED SETTING Tucked away from the hubbub of Paris on beautiful Avenue Gabriel, the Laurent benefits from an ideal location and a breathtaking setting. The fashion world of Avenue Montaigne, the political life of the embassies and ministries, and the artistic world of the galleries of Rue Saint Honoré all rub shoulders here at the heart of the Golden Triangle. On the edge of the Champs-Élysées gardens, the Laurent stands majestically and blends into this leafy landscape. In the summer, the garden reveals the full beauty of its verdant backdrop. This haven of tranquillity is enchanting. Hittorff s Four Seasons fountain babbles joyously, and the scent of the flowers beckons you on a journey without leaving Paris. 12 13
NEOCLASSICAL ARCHITECTURE In 1840, King Louis-Philippe commissioned Jacques-Ignace Hittorff, architect of the Cirque d Hiver, to fix up the Champs-Élysées and restore this open-air cafe in an innovative style. He decided to dress it in pilasters, columns and capitals. A multicoloured paint scheme, which is now legendary, was chosen to complete the temple-like feel of the place. A TIMELESS DECOR Hidden alcoves, big bay windows, classical sculptures and paintings, bouquets of fresh flowers... The elegant decor of the premises has been thought through to the smallest detail, like the carving trolley designed by Christofle at the foot of the imposing staircase. The original architecture is enhanced by contemporary luxury. 14 15
LAURENT TODAY In its 300-year lifetime, the house has managed to preserve its authenticity whilst adapting to a certain form of modernity. The spirit of excellence is passed down from one generation to the next. Smiles, attentive service, impeccable suits, smooth gestures... The subtle beauty and discretion so highly prized by the Laurent can be seen in every detail, from the decoration to the food and not forgetting the reception. Even today, the Laurent is one of the best-kept secrets in Paris. But the story doesn t end here... Behind the entrance doors, new memories are created every day. 16
RESTAURANT LAURENT 41 AVENUE GABRIEL, 75008 PARIS www.le-laurent.com 00 33 1 42 25 00 39 info@le-laurent.com OPENING HOURS Monday to Friday 12:30pm to 2 pm 7:30 pm to 10:30pm Saturday 7:30 pm to 10:30pm Closed on Sundays and public holidays 18 19